Are you tired of the same old weeknight dinner routine? Do you find yourself scrambling to come up with something quick, easy, and delicious for your family or roommates? Look no further! We’ve got you covered with these 20 mouth-watering great dinner recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From hearty beef dishes to flavorful chicken options, and even some seafood and veggie-based recipes, we’ve curated a list of the most delicious and easy-to-make meals to spice up your dinner game.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world with a variety of international flavors and cooking techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy a stress-free dinner that’s sure to become a new family favorite!
Garlic Butter Steak with Roasted Vegetables
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet impressive recipe, featuring tender garlic butter steak paired with a colorful medley of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak or ribeye, at room temperature
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place steak on a large plate or cutting board and spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over both sides of the steak.
4. Let steak sit at room temperature for 15 minutes to allow it to come up to par with the butter.
5. Toss bell peppers, zucchinis, and carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a large baking sheet.
6. Roast vegetables in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
7. Grill steak over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side, or cook to desired level of doneness.
8. Let steak rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving with roasted vegetables.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this tangy and savory dish that combines the brightness of lemon, creaminess of parmesan, and the richness of chicken. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 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 and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and lemon juice. Simmer for 1 minute.
4. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it thicken slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add cooked pasta, chicken, and parmesan cheese to the skillet. Toss until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Honey Garlic Salmon with Asparagus
This recipe is a flavorful and healthy meal that combines the sweetness of honey with the savory flavor of garlic, all in one pan. It’s perfect for a quick and easy dinner that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Place the salmon fillets in the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toss the asparagus with a pinch of salt and pepper. Add it to the pan with the salmon and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
6. Remove the pan from heat and drizzle the honey over the top. Toss to coat.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Recipe
Experience the rich flavors of classic French cuisine with this easy-to-make slow cooker recipe for Beef Bourguignon.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Burgundy or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Season the beef with salt and pepper.
2. Brown the beef in a skillet with butter until browned on all sides. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
4. Add the red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, and paprika to the slow cooker.
5. Add the browned beef and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Serve hot with crusty bread or over egg noodles.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Spicy Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry
A flavorful and spicy stir-fry that combines the bold flavors of Thailand with the comfort of chicken, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. This recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons Thai red curry paste
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh Thai basil leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped peanuts or cashews, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers, onion, garlic, curry paste, fish sauce, water, soy sauce, and ginger. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Thai basil leaves and stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped peanuts or cashews if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops
A crispy, cheesy crust elevates this classic comfort food dish to new heights. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying tender and flavorful pork chops in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 pounds)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Season pork chops with salt, pepper, and oregano.
4. Dip each pork chop in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and savory chicken breast stuffed with sautéed mushrooms and spinach. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start browning.
3. Add spinach leaves to the skillet; cook until wilted.
4. Stuff each chicken breast with the mushroom-spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
6. Place stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Shrimp Scampi with Linguine
Quickly sauté shrimp with garlic butter and parsley for a flavorful and light Italian-inspired dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces linguine pasta
– Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine 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 or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet; cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove from heat and stir in white wine (if using), lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Toss cooked linguine with reserved pasta water, then add shrimp mixture. Combine well.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vegetable Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this classic Italian dish, packed with a medley of colorful vegetables and a rich, creamy Béchamel sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, spinach)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Béchamel sauce (see below)
Béchamel Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
4. In a separate saucepan, make Béchamel sauce by melting butter, whisking in flour, and gradually adding milk. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Assemble lasagna by layering noodles, vegetable mixture, and Béchamel sauce, finishing with cheese on top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Skewers with Pineapple
A sweet and savory twist on traditional chicken skewers, this recipe combines juicy chicken with caramelized pineapple and a hint of teriyaki sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add chicken to the marinade and let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
4. Thread chicken and pineapple onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Brush with additional teriyaki sauce during the last minute of grilling.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 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 vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok 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 vegetable oil.
4. Add the onion and garlic and stir-fry until softened, about 2 minutes.
5. Add the broccoli and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
6. Return the beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp with Quinoa
This recipe combines the bright flavors of lemon, garlic, and butter with succulent shrimp, served atop a nutritious quinoa base. A perfect 30-minute meal for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1/4 cup quinoa
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to low and add remaining 1 tablespoon butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until butter melts and sauce thickens.
5. Serve shrimp on top of quinoa, spooning some of the lemon garlic sauce over the dish. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
This recipe combines the flavors of a classic Caprese salad – fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil – with the earthy goodness of portobello mushrooms. The result is a deliciously savory appetizer perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps cleaned
– 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, and basil.
3. Place a spoonful of the Caprese mixture onto the center of each mushroom cap.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the filling and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creative take on stuffed shells, combining the richness of chicken alfredo sauce with the comfort of jumbo pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine chicken, spinach, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the chicken-alfredo mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies
Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies Recipe
A simple and delicious one-pan meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. This recipe combines juicy sausage, colorful vegetables, and crispy potatoes for a satisfying and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound 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
– 1 large red potato, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. Place the sausage on one half of the sheet pan, leaving a small border around it.
4. Arrange the bell peppers and zucchinis around the sausage.
5. Top with potato slices and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until sausage is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
Optional: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the sheet pan and return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until melted and bubbly.
Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce
A classic seafood dish that’s both elegant and effortless, this recipe showcases the sweetness of scallops paired with a bright and tangy lemon butter sauce. Serve as an appetizer or main course for a memorable dining experience.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter and cook until melted, about 1 minute.
3. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
4. Arrange scallops in the skillet, leaving space between each. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Flip scallops and cook for an additional 2 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Remove from heat. Stir in lemon juice and white wine (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders with Coleslaw
These bite-sized sliders are perfect for a backyard gathering or a quick weeknight dinner. Slow-cooked pork shoulder is tender and flavorful, topped with creamy coleslaw and served on soft buns.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F.
2. Season pork shoulder with salt and pepper. Place in a Dutch oven or heavy pot with lid.
3. Cook pork for 8-10 hours or overnight, until tender and easily shredded.
4. Shred pork with two forks and mix with BBQ sauce.
5. Assemble sliders by spooning pork onto buns.
6. Prepare coleslaw by combining cabbage, mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
7. Serve sliders with coleslaw and garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (slow cooker) or 1 hour (oven)
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Salmon
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe! Pan-seared salmon fillets are stuffed with a vibrant spinach and feta mixture, creating a delicious and visually appealing dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, parsley, garlic, and lemon zest.
3. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Place about 1/4 cup of the spinach-feta mixture on top of each salmon fillet.
5. Fold the sides of the salmon over the filling to form a compact package.
6. Pan-sear the salmon in olive oil for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Transfer the salmon to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 18-20 minutes
Chicken Tikka Masala with Basmati Rice
This classic Indian dish combines the flavors of marinated chicken, creamy tomato sauce, and aromatic spices, served over fluffy basmati rice. A perfect blend of East meets West, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
For the chicken:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons garam masala
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt and pepper
For the sauce:
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons garam masala
– Salt and pepper
For the rice:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Marinate chicken in yogurt mixture for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill or bake chicken until cooked through, then set aside.
4. Cook basmati rice according to package instructions.
5. In a large skillet, sauté onions and garlic, then add sauce ingredients and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
6. Serve chicken on top of basmati rice with the creamy tomato sauce spooned over.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff
Classic Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff Recipe
This hearty dish combines tender beef strips, sautéed mushrooms, and a rich cream sauce, served over egg noodles for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz egg noodles
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and mushrooms; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine. Return beef to skillet and stir to coat with mushroom mixture.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together broth, cream, and mustard. Pour into skillet and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook until sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve over cooked egg noodles, garnished with parsley.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a culinary rescue! This collection of 20 delicious dinner recipes is perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort food to international flavors, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Try Garlic Butter Steak with Roasted Vegetables, Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken Pasta, or Spicy Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry. Or go for something hearty like Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon or Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies. With a range of options from one-pot wonders to seafood and pasta dishes, you’ll never run out of ideas again!
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