29 Easy Recipes That Make Weeknight Cooking A Breeze

Ever feel like weeknight dinners are more of a chore than a chance to chill? That’s why having a handful of easy recipes up your sleeve is such a game changer. Imagine whipping up a delicious meal in no time. These 29 simple dishes ensure that dinner stress is off the menu, making every weeknight feel a tad more like the weekend!

A close-up image of spaghetti carbonara topped with grated cheese and freshly ground black pepper.
Pasta Carbonara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Kimchi Stew

Close-up of a wooden spoon in a vibrant kimchi stew with tofu and pork, garnished with sliced green onions and red pepper flakes.
Kimchi Stew. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Warm and comforting, Kimchi Stew is here to spice up your dinner routine. It combines kimchi with other simple ingredients to create a deeply flavored stew that’s surprisingly easy to make. It’s perfect for those nights when you need a hot meal without too much fuss. Plus, it’s packed with good-for-your-gut probiotics.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew

Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

A plate with honey chicken tenders, broccoli florets, and mashed potatoes.
Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders are always a hit. The honey mustard coating adds a tangy twist that lights up the meal. They’re quick to cook, which means you won’t be stuck in the kitchen for too long. Serve them with anything from fries to fresh veggies for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

Mexican Street Corn Salad

A bowl of Mexican street corn salad garnished with lime wedges and cilantro.
Mexican Street Corn Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For a fresh side that packs a punch, Mexican Street Corn Salad is your go-to. It’s a lighter take on the classic street corn, tossing together charred corn with a handful of vibrant ingredients. It’s quick to assemble and adds a colorful touch to any meal. Not to mention, it’s a flavor explosion in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Miso Soup

A bowl of miso soup with tofu cubes, seaweed, and green onions.
Miso Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

When you long for a touch of comfort in a bowl, Miso Soup is always there to help you wind down after a busy day. It’s light, yet full of flavor, and can be whipped up quicker than you can set the table. Enjoy it on its own or pair it with a salad or sushi for a full Japanese-inspired meal at home. Whipping up a batch is as calming as it gets.
Get the Recipe: Miso Soup

Pork Chops

Close-up of a cooked, seasoned pork chop topped with melted cheese and garnished with chopped parsley on a dark plate.
Pork Chops. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Whether pan-seared or baked, Pork Chops are the ultimate protein that’s always on standby for a swift supper solution. They’re versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides, from apple sauce to roasted veggies. Get them on the table in under 30 minutes, then sit back and enjoy the well-earned compliments. They’re as straightforward as delicious gets.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops

Million Dollar Dip

Close-up of a creamy dish topped with shredded cheese, chopped nuts, bacon bits, and sliced green onions.
Million Dollar Dip. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Gather your friends for game night and amaze them with Million Dollar Dip. With its rich, creamy flavors, it’s the hero dish of any casual get-together and takes no time at all to prepare. Scoop it up with your favorite crackers or veggies, and watch it disappear. It just might be the easiest way to win over your crowd.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Dip

Shrimp Burrito Bowls

A bowl of seasoned shrimp, avocado, corn, black beans, rice, and a dollop of sour cream, garnished with cilantro.
Shrimp Burrito Bowls. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Mix up your dinner routine with Shrimp Burrito Bowls, a lively dish that’s as versatile as it is quick to prepare. Fill your bowls with shrimp and all your favorite burrito fixings, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to please everyone. Dinner’s ready before you know it, and it’s fun to eat, too!
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Burrito Bowls

Potato Salad

Close-up of creamy potato salad with chopped celery and black pepper seasoning.
Potato Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

No picnic necessary to enjoy the comfort that Potato Salad brings to your kitchen table. It’s a classic side dish that’s a cinch to make and even easier to love. Mix it up in advance and let the flavors meld until you’re ready to eat. It’s the perfect stress-free addition to any meal, especially when you’re tight on time.
Get the Recipe: Potato Salad

Southwestern Chicken Quesadillas

Quesadillas filled with rice, beans, and chicken, topped with sour cream and cilantro. Sliced tomato and jalapeño are on the side.
Southwestern Chicken Quesadillas. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Weeknight dinners just got easier with these cheesy delights wrapped in a toasted tortilla. They’re perfect for those evenings when you want to whip something up quickly with minimal fuss. Southwestern Chicken Quesadillas are your answer to quick and fulfilling meals. You can play around with the fillings, but chicken and cheese always hit the spot.
Get the Recipe: Southwestern Chicken Quesadillas

Sweet and Sour Sauce

A spoon rests inside a glass jar filled with a thick, brown liquid.
Sweet and Sour Sauce. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Whether it’s for dipping or drizzling, a good sauce can transform any meal. Whip up Sweet and Sour Sauce in minutes, and have it ready to liven up your dishes. It’s particularly great with fried appetizers or over grilled items. Plus, it’s a fun way to bring some extra flavor to your plate.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Sauce

Spaghetti Casserole

A serving of cheesy baked spaghetti is being lifted with a utensil. The dish is topped with melted cheese and garnished with herbs.
Spaghetti Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When you’re in the mood for something comforting, baked pasta dishes come to mind. Loaded with layers of pasta, cheese, and sauces, Spaghetti Casserole makes for a delicious oven-baked treat. It’s so easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Just pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Casserole

Shrimp Tempura

A bowl of crispy fried shrimp with slices of green onions and jalapeños.
Shrimp Tempura. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crunch into Shrimp Tempura, a Japanese classic that’s surprisingly simple to recreate at home. With a light and crisp coating, each bite is a little moment of joy. While it looks like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen, it’s actually ready in a snap. Impress your family with a dish that’s as fun to eat as it is to make.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura

Sushi Bake

A dish of loaded fries inspired by sushi bake, topped with avocado slices, diced cucumbers, green onions, sesame seeds, and drizzled with sauce.
Sushi Bake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Enjoy the flavors of sushi without the hassle of rolling each piece. This deconstructed version of the Japanese favorite is baked in a dish and is as delicious as it is simple to make. Sushi Bake layers your favorite sushi ingredients in a creamy, beautiful casserole. It’s the perfect solution for a different kind of dinner night.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Bake

Sesame Chicken

A close-up of glazed chicken pieces with sesame seeds and chopped scallions on a bed of rice.
Sesame Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Surprise your family with Sesame Chicken, a dish that’s both sweet and nutty and always a favorite. It’s a must-have recipe that’s easier to make than you might think, and the results are always tasty. Perfect for when you want a quick yet rewarding dinner.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Chicken

Homemade Lasagna

Close-up of a delicious slice of lasagna, showcasing layers of pasta, ground meat, tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and garnished with chopped basil.
Homemade Lasagna. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Who doesn’t love the classic layers of cheese, pasta, and seasoned meat that Homemade Lasagna brings to the table? It’s like wrapping up comfort in every slice, perfect for those evenings when you want something heartwarming. Preparing it in advance is a game changer, freeing up your evenings.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna

Kung Pao Chicken

A close-up of a stir-fry dish featuring pieces of chicken, snap peas, red bell peppers, scallions, and black sesame seeds.
Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you’re craving something with a bit of a kick, Kung Pao Chicken is the way to go. It’s a quick stir-fry dish known for its incredible balance of spicy, sweet, and sour flavors. Throw in some peanuts for crunch, and you’ve got a dish that’s hard to resist. It’s also pretty versatile; adjust the heat to suit your preference.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy, golden-brown macaroni and cheese dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping reminiscent of comforting funeral potatoes. A spoon is partially submerged in the cheese sauce.
Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

There’s nothing more comforting than a creamy bowl of Mac and Cheese. It’s the quintessential easy meal that pleases everyone, whether as a main dish or a side. You can jazz it up with add-ins or keep it simple and classic. Either way, you’re looking at a quick route to creamy, cheesy bliss.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Penne Alla Vodka

Two bowls of penne alla vodka, with Parmesan by the side.
Penne Alla Vodka. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Turn an ordinary night into something special with Penne Alla Vodka, a pasta dish that’s effortlessly elegant. Even though it sounds fancy, you’ll be surprised at how quickly it comes together. It’s the perfect balance of creamy sauce with a touch of tomato, making it a real crowd-pleaser. Plus, cleaning up is a snap, leaving you more time to relax.
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka

Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Close-up of a Beef Enchilada Tortellini dish topped with ground meat, corn, black beans, and chopped green onions.
Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Turn up the heat on your dinner routine with some Mexican-inspired flavors mixed into Italian favorites. Easy to prepare and filled with flavor, Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini is a dish that combines the best of both worlds. It’s a wonderful choice for anyone looking to spice up their meal plans.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Marry Me Chicken Pasta

A plate of creamy penne pasta garnished with chopped parsley and grated cheese, featuring pieces of sun-dried tomatoes. A black fork is resting on the plate.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you’re after something that feels fancy but doesn’t require fancy skills, Marry Me Chicken Pasta has your back. It’s a delicious pasta dish bathed in a creamy sauce with just the right amount of herbs to impress anyone. Even though it sounds gourmet, it’s straightforward and quick to prepare. After all, it’s named for its ability to impress.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Mexican Street Corn Dip

Close-up of a blue corn chip dipped in a creamy cheese and vegetable mixture, garnished with cilantro and sliced jalapeños.
Mexican Street Corn Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Mexican Street Corn Dip takes all the beloved elements of street corn and turns it into a dip that’s hard to stop eating. It’s creamy, it’s cheesy, and it has that perfect hint of lime and chili. Ready in no time, it’s ideal for when you need to whip up something quick and delicious. Just grab some chips and dip in.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Dip

Meatball Sliders

Close-up of a cheesy meatball slider with a seasoned bun, showing melted cheese and tomato sauce. Other sliders are visible in the background.
Meatball Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Meatball Sliders are the perfect answer when you need something both fun and filling. Mini buns stuffed with meatballs and marinara sauce, they’re a favorite at any table. They come together quickly, making them a great option for a no-fuss dinner. Plus, they’re mess-free, at least until you start eating them!
Get the Recipe: Meatball Sliders

Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

A bowl of white rice topped with glazed chicken and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Craving takeout but stuck at home? Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe has got you covered with none of the wait. The sweet and slightly tangy flavors are sure to remind you of your favorite joints. Serve it over a bed of steamed rice and keep those takeout menus in the drawer.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Shrimp Scampi

Close-up of cooked shrimp seasoned with herbs and black pepper.
Shrimp Scampi. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Brighten your weekday menu with Shrimp Scampi, an amazing yet simple dish with a garlic-lemon kick. It fancies up your dinner table without the fuss, and it’s on your plate faster than you can say “delicious.” Paired with pasta or crusty bread, it’s a quick ticket to an amazing meal. Go on, turn any dinner into an occasion.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

Marry Me Salmon

Grilled salmon fillet topped with a creamy herb sauce, served next to a portion of white rice.
Marry Me Salmon. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For a dish that’s as easy as it is impressive, Marry Me Salmon fits the bill perfectly. It combines salmon with a rich and creamy sauce for a meal that feels fancy but is deceptively simple to make. It’s a great way to break the monotony of typical weeknight meals. Everyone at the table will be asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Salmon

Thai Drunken Noodles

A colorful dish of shrimp stir-fry with noodles, vegetables, and sesame seeds, garnished with basil leaves and green onions. Chopsticks rest on the dish.
Thai Drunken Noodles. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For nights when you crave something with a bit more kick, dish up some stir-fried noodles with a spicy edge. Thai Drunken Noodles offers a fantastic explosion of flavors. They’re quick to cook and you can toss in any leftovers you have, making them incredibly versatile. It’s the ideal solution for a last-minute meal.
Get the Recipe: Thai Drunken Noodles

Vegetable Stir Fry

Vegetable Stir Fry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Packed with veggies and ready in minutes, stir fries are the ultimate quick-fix dinner. Vegetable Stir Fry is versatile and can integrate whatever produce you prefer or have available. It’s healthy, colorful, and can be served over rice or noodles. Plus, it’s always fun to toss everything together in one pan.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry

Tortilla Pizza

Four tortilla pizzas on a wooden cutting board.
Tortilla Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cut down on cooking time by using tortillas as your pizza base. Tortilla Pizza is a genius hack for speedy and crispy pizza. You can top it with whatever ingredients you have on hand. It’s a straightforward recipe that encourages creativity and quick preparation.
Get the Recipe: Tortilla Pizza

Pasta Carbonara

A close-up image of spaghetti carbonara topped with grated cheese and freshly ground black pepper.
Pasta Carbonara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Nothing screams comfort food like a creamy Italian classic. With minimal ingredients and effort, Pasta Carbonara is a creamy delight that’s both filling and ready in no time. It’s perfect for those evenings when you need a quick meal without compromising on flavor. Simply stir through and serve up!
Get the Recipe: Pasta Carbonara

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

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