Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for speed when it comes to cooking dinner? Do you find yourself constantly ordering takeout or resorting to bland, frozen meals because you just can’t seem to fit a delicious, homemade meal into your busy schedule? Well, we’ve got the solution for you! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering quick dinner recipes that are perfect for busy nights. From seafood to poultry, beef to pork, and even some tasty vegetarian options, these dishes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Whether you’re a culinary newbie or a seasoned chef, our recipes are designed to be easy to follow and quick to prepare – we’re talking 15 minutes or less from start to finish! And don’t worry, we’ve got plenty of variety to keep things interesting. From classic comfort foods like pasta and tacos to international inspirations like Asian stir-fries and Indian curries, there’s something for everyone on this list.
So what are you waiting for? Let’s get cooking with these 20 delicious quick dinner recipes!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Get ready to devour a flavorful and comforting pasta dish that combines succulent shrimp with rich garlic butter sauce, all on top of al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice
– 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet 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 simmer for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked pasta, garlic butter sauce, and shrimp in a large serving bowl. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
6. Top with Parmesan cheese (if desired) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Veggies
Brighten up your dinner with this flavorful one-pan wonder! This easy recipe combines juicy chicken, tender veggies, and a zesty lemon herb sauce for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
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, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan.
4. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
5. Add the bell peppers, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
6. Return the chicken to the pan with lemon juice and parsley. Stir to combine.
7. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Speedy Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or busy lunch, this recipe combines tender beef, crisp broccoli, and savory soy sauce in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, ginger, and garlic powder.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Add broccoli and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Return beef to the skillet and stir in soy sauce mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
15-Minute Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Elevate your mealtime with this effortless and flavorful soup that combines the sweetness of tomatoes, the brightness of basil, and a hint of cream. Perfect for a busy day or a cozy evening in.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes), diced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 teaspoons dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
2. Add tomatoes, chicken broth, and basil. Bring mixture to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Easy Teriyaki Salmon with Rice
This quick and flavorful recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, tender salmon, and fluffy rice, you’ll be in for a treat!
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the baking sheet, leaving space between each.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, ginger, and soy sauce.
5. Brush the sauce mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
6. Drizzle vegetable oil around the salmon.
7. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Serve with cooked white rice.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Quick and Cheesy Taco Skillet
This recipe is a twist on traditional tacos, with all the flavors and fun packed into one delicious skillet. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the diced tomatoes and cooked rice; stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and top with shredded cheese.
7. Cover and let simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve hot, topped with your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Peanut Noodles with Chicken
A spicy twist on classic chicken noodles, this recipe combines the bold flavors of peanut sauce with the warmth of chili flakes for a dish that’s sure to spice up your mealtime.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, red pepper flakes, and garlic. Blend until smooth.
4. Add the cooked noodles and chicken to the peanut sauce mixture. Toss until well coated.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies
Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies Recipe
Summary: A simple and flavorful recipe that combines savory sausage with a variety of colorful vegetables, all cooked to perfection on one sheet pan.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian-style sausages (sweet or hot)
– 1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite seasonings or herbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. Place the sausages on one half of the pan, leaving space between each sausage.
4. Arrange the bell peppers, zucchinis, and carrots around the sausages.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables and sprinkle with garlic, salt, and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the sausages are cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas
Elevate your fajita game with this easy and flavorful recipe that cooks chicken, peppers, and onions to perfection in the Instant Pot. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add chicken, onions, peppers, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken is browned and vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Close lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 8-10 minutes.
4. Let pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Serve with warm tortillas and your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and colorful Caprese-inspired dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
3. Stuff each breast with mozzarella cheese, cherry tomatoes, and basil leaves.
4. Drizzle the outside of the chicken with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
5. Place stuffed chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
20-Minute Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ready in just 20 minutes, these Garlic Butter Steak Bites are a flavorful and satisfying snack or appetizer for any occasion. With minimal prep time and simple cooking instructions, you’ll be enjoying tender and juicy bites of steak in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together softened butter, minced garlic, and Worcestershire sauce.
3. Add steak cubes to the bowl and toss to coat with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place steak bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp and Quinoa
This vibrant dish combines succulent shrimp, nutty quinoa, and a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce for a flavorful and healthy meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions. Set aside.
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. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve quinoa topped with shrimp, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta
Savor the rich flavors of this comforting one-pot pasta dish, featuring tender mushrooms and a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (e.g., penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and mushrooms; cook until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the chicken broth and heavy cream; stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Stir in the cooked pasta, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Black Bean and Corn Quesadillas
This recipe brings together the flavors of Mexico with a twist – adding black beans and corn to traditional quesadillas for a nutritious and delicious meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 whole wheat tortillas
– 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (divided)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the black beans and corn; cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
3. In a separate pan or griddle, place a tortilla and sprinkle with half of the cheese.
4. Spoon the bean and corn mixture on half of the tortilla, then fold in half to enclose.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is lightly browned and the cheese is melted.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Easy Honey Sriracha Chicken Stir-Fry
A sweet and spicy twist on a classic stir-fry, this recipe combines the flavors of honey, sriracha, and chicken for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp sriracha sauce
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha, and soy sauce.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers and garlic; stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes.
5. Pour honey-sriracha mixture over the top; stir to coat.
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Speedy Margherita Pizza Flatbread
A classic Italian-inspired flatbread that’s ready in no time! This recipe combines the simplicity of a margherita pizza with the convenience of a flatbread.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup lukewarm water
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 1/4 cup tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add olive oil and lukewarm water, mixing until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Top with sliced mozzarella cheese, tomato sauce, and fresh basil leaves.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
15-Minute Coconut Curry Ramen
Looking for a quick and flavorful meal? This coconut curry ramen is the perfect solution, packed with aromatic spices and creamy goodness. With only 15 minutes of cooking time, you can enjoy this delicious bowl in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ramen noodles
– 2 cups of vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup of coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons of curry paste
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot or wok, combine vegetable broth, coconut milk, curry paste, soy sauce, and grated ginger. Whisk until smooth.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat.
4. Add cooked ramen noodles to the pot and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Baked Parmesan Crusted Tilapia
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and moist baked tilapia recipe, topped with a crispy parmesan crust.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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 and parmesan cheese.
4. Dip each tilapia fillet in olive oil, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated tilapia on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
One-Skillet Cheesy Beef and Rice
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this comforting one-skillet dish, packed with tender beef, flavorful rice, and a rich, cheesy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups water
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in uncooked rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
5. Remove skillet from heat and stir in shredded cheese and milk until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fast and Fresh Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken
Elevate your lunch game with this quick and flavorful recipe that combines the classic Greek salad with juicy grilled chicken. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups mixed greens ( Romaine, arugula, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs (optional). Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, red onion, and olives.
3. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad, tossing to combine.
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add on top of the salad.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to transform your busy nights into delicious dinner times! This article features 20 quick and easy recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From seafood pasta dishes like Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, to stir-fries like Speedy Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry, and soups like 15-Minute Creamy Tomato Basil Soup, there’s something for everyone. With ingredients you likely have on hand and cooking times under an hour, these recipes are perfect for busy weeknights when you need a tasty meal in a flash.