Dinner time can be a challenge, especially when you’re short on time and ingredients. But fear not! We’ve got 20 deliciously easy dinner recipes to help you get in and out of the kitchen quickly, without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.
From seafood to meat-lovers, and veggie-based dishes to comfort food classics, we’ve curated a list of mouthwatering options that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion dinner, these recipes have got you covered.
In this article, we’ll dive into each recipe, providing step-by-step instructions and ingredient lists. So grab your apron, get cooking, and enjoy the satisfaction of a home-cooked meal!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Savor the rich flavors of garlic butter and succulent shrimp in this easy-to-make pasta dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. If using white wine and lemon juice, add to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1 minute.
5. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet, stirring to combine with butter mixture. Bring sauce to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes.
6. Combine cooked shrimp and pasta in the skillet. Toss to coat with garlic butter sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful and easy-to-make One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken recipe, featuring tender chicken breast, bright lemon zest, and aromatic herbs in one convenient pan.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add lemon juice, mustard, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
7. Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, until chicken is cooked through.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Quickly cook up a flavorful and nutritious beef and broccoli stir fry, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound 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
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, broccoli, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return the beef to the pan and stir-fry for an additional minute, combining with the broccoli mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
A rich and comforting soup that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the brightness of basil.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the tomatoes, broth, and salt; bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped basil.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon
Elevate your salmon dish with a crispy Parmesan crust and a flavorful, baked finish.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic, and parsley.
4. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
5. Dip each salmon fillet into the Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Place coated salmon on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Quick and Easy Tacos
In just a few minutes, you can whip up a delicious taco dinner that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a quick gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for a vegetarian option)
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the taco seasoning and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
3. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the tacos by spooning the beef mixture onto a tortilla, followed by a sprinkle of cheese.
5. Add your desired toppings and serve immediately.
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas
A delicious twist on classic quesadillas, these cheesy chicken fillings are sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, cheese, onion, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the chicken mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Vegetable Fried Rice
A classic Chinese dish that’s easy to make and packed with nutritious vegetables, Vegetable Fried Rice is a quick and satisfying meal for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Push vegetables to one side of the pan. Crack eggs into the other side; scramble until cooked through.
5. Mix eggs with vegetables.
6. Add cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
7. Stir-fry rice with soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Honey Garlic Glazed Pork Chops
Sweet and savory, this Honey Garlic Glazed Pork Chops recipe is a crowd-pleaser! With just a few simple ingredients, you can elevate the flavor of your pork chops to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-inch thick)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, and Dijon mustard.
3. Brush the glaze mixture evenly onto both sides of the pork chops.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
A classic Italian dish that combines the simplicity of spaghetti with the bold flavors of garlic and olive oil, Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a quick and easy meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
3. Add the thinly sliced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fragrant.
4. Once the spaghetti is cooked, drain and add it to the skillet with the garlic and olive oil. Toss everything together to combine.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies
This recipe is a quick and easy meal solution that combines flavorful sausage with a variety of colorful vegetables, all cooked to perfection on one sheet pan. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and sliced
– 2 large yellow bell peppers, seeded and sliced
– 2 large zucchinis, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite seasonings or herbs (e.g., paprika, oregano, thyme)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. Place the sausage on one half of the sheet pan and spread evenly.
4. Arrange the bell peppers and zucchinis around the sausage.
5. Sprinkle garlic, salt, and pepper over the vegetables.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the entire sheet pan.
7. Cook for 25-30 minutes or until sausage is browned and vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Caprese Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful Caprese-stuffed chicken recipe, featuring fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomato.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lay a chicken breast flat on a work surface.
3. Place 2-3 slices of mozzarella cheese in the center of each breast.
4. Top with a sprinkle of basil leaves and diced tomato.
5. Fold the chicken over the filling, ensuring it is secure, then coat with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Place the stuffed chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Beef Tacos
A flavorful and quick taco recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering. With just a few ingredients, you can have delicious beef tacos on the table in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, 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 the diced onion and taco seasoning to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and the flavors are combined.
3. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the tacos by spooning the beef mixture onto a tortilla, followed by shredded cheese and your desired toppings.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon
Get ready to impress with this flavorful and moist salmon dish, bursting with citrusy goodness from the lemon and pungency from the garlic.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, garlic, and parsley.
5. Dot the top of each salmon fillet with softened butter, then spoon the lemon-garlic mixture evenly over the fish.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Pasta
This creamy mushroom pasta recipe is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the richness of heavy cream. It’s an easy and satisfying meal for any night of the week.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir in thyme. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta, mushroom cream sauce, and reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner
This recipe brings together the flavors of BBQ chicken, roasted vegetables, and crispy potatoes all on one sheet pan. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat.
4. Spread chicken on one half of the sheet pan.
5. Arrange bell peppers, potatoes, and onion on the other half of the sheet pan.
6. Drizzle BBQ sauce over the vegetables.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Avocado and Black Bean Quesadillas
Avocado and Black Bean Quesadillas Recipe
These creamy, crunchy, and flavorful quesadillas are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. By combining ripe avocados with cooked black beans, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas, you’ll have a delicious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
- 2 large avocado, diced
- 1 cup cooked black beans, warmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 small flour tortillas (8-10 inches)
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: salsa, sour cream, cilantro, or any other topping you like!
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, combine the diced avocado and cooked black beans. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with half of the cheese.
- Place about 1/4 cup of the avocado-black bean mixture on half of the tortilla, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
- Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy, flipping once. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
- Cook time: approximately 6-8 minutes total.
Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls
Savor the flavors of Japan with this simple and delicious recipe for Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 cups cooked Japanese-style white rice (short-grain rice)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, green beans)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions 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 pieces in a shallow baking dish and brush with the teriyaki mixture.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook Japanese-style white rice according to package instructions.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
8. Assemble bowls by placing chicken on top of rice, followed by vegetables.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
A classic Italian dish that combines the rich flavors of pesto with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought 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 pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine pesto and reserved pasta water. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly (about 5 minutes).
3. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until they release their juices and start to soften.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the pesto-tomato mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches Recipe
This recipe yields tender, juicy pulled pork sandwiches with a sweet and tangy flavor profile.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder or butt
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 hamburger buns or sub rolls
- Pickle slices, optional
Instructions:
- In a slow cooker, combine the pork shoulder, brown sugar, smoked paprika, cumin, and salt. Mix well.
- Add the Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, and black pepper to the slow cooker. Stir until combined.
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
- Shred the pork with two forks, then stir in any accumulated juices.
- Serve the pulled pork on hamburger buns or sub rolls. Add pickle slices if desired.
Cooking Time: Low (8-10 hours), High (4-6 hours)
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these 20 simply easy dinner recipes! From classic comfort foods like Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta and Creamy Tomato Basil Soup, to international-inspired dishes like Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls and Avocado and Black Bean Quesadillas. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and healthy or rich and indulgent, these recipes are sure to please. With a mix of quick and easy options, as well as more elaborate meals, there’s something for everyone on this list. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy a delicious dinner with minimal fuss!
