Are you tired of slaving away in the kitchen for hours, only to serve up a meal that’s just okay? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 delicious and easy-to-make dinner recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, these recipes are perfect for busy home cooks who want to impress their families without breaking a sweat.
Whether you’re in the mood for something hearty and comforting, like our Garlic Butter Steak with Roasted Potatoes or our Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry, or something light and flavorful, like our One-Pan Lemon Garlic Salmon with Asparagus or our Shrimp Scampi with Linguine, we’ve got you covered. So why wait? Get cooking with us and discover the ease and simplicity of these mouth-watering recipes!
Garlic Butter Steak with Roasted Potatoes
A classic combination of tender steak smothered in savory garlic butter, served alongside fluffy roasted potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 steaks (6 oz each), at room temperature
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter and minced garlic.
3. Season steaks with salt and pepper.
4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steaks for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Transfer steaks to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Toss potato wedges with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Serve steak with roasted potatoes and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this comforting pasta dish, featuring tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a hint of Tuscan flair.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 12 oz. pasta (e.g., penne or fusilli)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium; add onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese; stir until smooth.
5. Add cooked pasta, chicken, and basil; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Lemon Garlic Salmon with Asparagus
A flavorful and effortless weeknight dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes! This recipe combines the brightness of lemon, pungency of garlic, and sweetness of asparagus to create a dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes, until slightly tender.
5. Place the salmon fillets on top of the asparagus.
6. Pour the lemon juice evenly over the salmon.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a staple for a reason – it’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be on the table in under 30 minutes. With thinly sliced beef, crisp broccoli, and savory soy sauce, this stir-fry is a perfect weeknight dinner solution.
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 oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add broccoli and garlic to the pan, cooking until broccoli is tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Pour into the pan and stir to combine.
5. Return beef to the pan, stirring to coat with sauce. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Honey Sriracha Glazed Chicken Thighs
Sweet and spicy, this Honey Sriracha Glazed Chicken Thighs recipe is a flavorful twist on classic chicken dishes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch, these glazed thighs are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large baking dish or sheet pan lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the honey-sriracha glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegetable Lasagna with Ricotta and Spinach
This recipe combines the flavors of sautéed spinach, ricotta cheese, and layered lasagna noodles for a satisfying vegetarian main course. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
4. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and cooked spinach mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Assemble the lasagna by spreading marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, and top with half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Shrimp Scampi with Linguine
This classic Italian dish is a cinch to make and packs a flavorful punch. Savor the succulent shrimp, garlic, and lemon combination served atop linguine noodles.
Ingredients:
• 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 oz linguine pasta
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. 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. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
5. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine cooked linguine and reserved pasta water in the skillet. Toss to combine.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches Recipe
Get ready for a tender and flavorful pulled pork sandwich experience with this easy-to-make slow cooker recipe!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine pork shoulder, brown sugar, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in barbecue sauce to coat the pork evenly.
4. Shred the pork with two forks and place it on hamburger buns.
5. Top with coleslaw, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Spicy Thai Basil Beef with Rice
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this spicy and aromatic beef dish, served over fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup Thai red curry paste
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup mixed basil leaves (Thai and sweet)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Saute garlic, ginger, and curry paste for 1 minute.
4. Add fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add cooked beef back into the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.
6. Garnish with basil leaves and serve over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Stuffed Bell Peppers
Satisfy your cravings with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the creaminess of cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, and shredded cheese.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and season with salt and pepper.
6. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas
Simplify your fajita game with this easy-to-make recipe that yields tender chicken and perfectly cooked vegetables on a single sheet pan!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lime wedges, sour cream, avocado, shredded cheese for toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken, onion, bell peppers, and garlic; toss until coated with the marinade.
4. Line a sheet pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Arrange the mixture on the prepared pan in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings (if using).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mushroom and Spinach Risotto
This creamy risotto combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms and spinach, 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 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent, 3-4 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, 5-6 minutes.
3. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20 minutes of cooking, stir in spinach and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional salmon dishes, this recipe features a crispy parmesan crust that adds texture and taste to every bite.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each salmon fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
5. Place coated salmon on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Classic Beef Tacos with Fresh Salsa
This recipe brings together the bold flavors of seasoned beef, crispy taco shells, and a tangy fresh salsa for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Perfect for any occasion, this classic combination is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh Salsa ingredients (see below)
Fresh Salsa:
– 2 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add vegetable oil and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
2. Add the chopped onion and taco seasoning. Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the flavors are combined.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos with beef mixture, topping with fresh salsa and any desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp with Quinoa
This recipe combines the bright flavors of lemon and garlic with succulent shrimp, served atop a nutty quinoa base. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a medium 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. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
5. To serve, place cooked quinoa on a plate, top with shrimp mixture, and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this indulgent twist on traditional stuffed shells. Tender chicken and rich Alfredo sauce mingle perfectly within jumbo pasta shells.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup Alfredo sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, Alfredo sauce, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the chicken-Alfredo mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Sprinkle tops with salt, pepper, and chopped parsley (if using).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until shells are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetable Fried Rice with Tofu
A classic Chinese dish that’s easy to make and packed with nutrients, this Vegetable Fried Rice with Tofu is a great way to use up leftover vegetables and rice. With its savory flavors and satisfying texture, it’s a perfect meal for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked rice to the pan. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Return the tofu to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines the flavors of rich pesto sauce with juicy grilled chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. A simple yet satisfying meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto sauce (or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and a pinch of olive oil. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
4. In a large skillet, combine pesto sauce and olive oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Add grilled chicken to the skillet and toss with pesto sauce.
6. Combine cooked pasta with chicken and pesto mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your family and friends with these 18 mouth-watering dinner recipes! From classic comfort food to international flavors, this collection has something for everyone. Try Garlic Butter Steak with Roasted Potatoes, Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, or One-Pan Lemon Garlic Salmon with Asparagus. Or, spice things up with Honey Sriracha Glazed Chicken Thighs or Spicy Thai Basil Beef with Rice. Whether you’re in the mood for pasta, seafood, or something entirely new, these easy-to-make recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.