Quick And Simple Dinners Start With 29 Easy Recipes

Some days, cooking feels like an extreme sport. These quick and simple dinners take the stress out of mealtime with recipes that actually make sense. No guessing games, just straightforward meals that work. Dinner is handled, and the kitchen chaos is kept to a minimum.

A close-up of a beef stew with green peas and chopped parsley, showing a spoon partially submerged in the rich, red sauce.
Beef Stew. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cashew Chicken

Close-up of Cashew Chicken featuring tender chicken, broccoli, edamame, cashews, and red bell peppers. This delightful dish is topped with sesame seeds and served over a bed of rice.
Cashew Chicken. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Dinner on the table is a breeze with Cashew Chicken. This meal combines simple ingredients you likely have on hand to make evenings easier. It’s perfect when you’re crunched for time but still want something satisfying. Serve it up and expect nothing left; it’s that appealing.
Get the Recipe: Cashew Chicken

Big Mac Crunchwrap

Close-up of a stack of folded tortillas filled with beef, melted cheese, lettuce, and onions on a white plate.
Big Mac Crunchwrap. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Take your favorite burger flavors and wrap them up into something special with Big Mac Crunchwrap. All the classic tastes are neatly packaged into a crispy exterior. No need for fast food with this easy, homemade twist. Everyone will be reaching for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Crunchwrap

Baked Chicken Thighs

Roasted chicken thighs with sliced potatoes garnished with herbs.
Baked Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Complicated recipes can take a back seat when you make Baked Chicken Thighs. Just pop them in the oven and let them cook while you handle other tasks. This dish delivers big flavors with little effort. It’s straightforward and always hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Baked Chicken Thighs

Million Dollar Casserole

A serving spoon lifts a portion of creamy, baked casserole with a crunchy topping, revealing melted cheese.
Million Dollar Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

If you want a dinner that appears lavish without all-day effort, try Million Dollar Casserole. It beckons everyone to the table with its layered, hearty ingredients. It feels special every time and solves the “What’s for dinner?” dilemma on busy evenings. Truly a low-effort, high-impact meal.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Casserole

Baked Rice

A close-up of a bowl of oven-baked fried rice mixed with colorful vegetables like green beans, bell peppers, and scallions, with a spoon resting inside.
Baked Rice. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For a side that complements any dish, turn to Baked Rice. Mix your ingredients, set them in the oven, and forget the fuss. It consistently turns out fluffy and ready to pair with your main. Ideal for a hands-off approach to rounding out your meal.
Get the Recipe: Baked Rice

Miso Soup

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

Whip up a batch of Miso Soup in less time than it takes to set the table. It’s light and fulfills without weighing you down, perfect as a starter or a light meal. Add in whatever extras you have for a custom touch. It’s a straightforward, reliable choice.
Get the Recipe: Miso Soup

Blackened Salmon Tacos

Tacos with grilled salmon, purple cabbage, corn, jalapeño slices, cilantro, and drizzled with white sauce on tortillas.
Blackened Salmon Tacos. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Shake up taco night with Blackened Salmon Tacos. These tacos pack a flavorful punch and are quick to prepare. Ditch the usual routine for something exciting that’s also hassle-free. Customizable and fun, they’re a hit at any table.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Salmon Tacos

Beef Bourguignon

Close-up of a savory beef stew with chunks of beef, bacon, onion, and vegetables in a rich, glossy sauce, served over creamy mashed potatoes.
Beef Bourguignon. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Beef Bourguignon may sound elaborate, but it’s simple enough for even a novice to master. This hearty dish brims with deep, comforting flavors. Ideal for cozy nights in, it gives the impression of all-day cooking without the fuss. Our secret is its simplicity.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bourguignon

Crunchwrap Supreme

Three folded tortillas filled with seasoned ground meat, diced tomatoes, and melted cheese.
Crunchwrap Supreme. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

This recipe wraps all the good stuff in a crunchy exterior. It’s an undeniable favorite that’s surprisingly simple to make at home. Crunchwrap Supreme is perfect for when you crave something crispy and satisfying. It offers plenty of options for personalization too.
Get the Recipe: Crunchwrap Supreme

Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Two pieces of fried chicken on a gray plate, garnished with small bits of green herbs.
Buttermilk Fried Chicken. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Enjoy the comfort of Buttermilk Fried Chicken without needing advanced cooking skills. This dish delivers a crispy exterior and juicy interior every time. It’s comforting, reminiscent of home, and straightforward to prepare. Yes, it really is as good as home-cooked comfort gets.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Easy Bibimbap

A bowl of bibimbap with sliced beef, egg yolk, carrots, cucumber, greens, and bean sprouts, topped with sesame seeds and red sauce.
Easy Bibimbap. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Easy Bibimbap brings diverse flavors and textures together in one bowl. Mix up your favorites for a deliciously balanced meal. It’s perfect for both Bibimbap first-timers and longtime fans. Eating well can be both comforting and simple with this dish.
Get the Recipe: Easy Bibimbap

Chicken Fried Rice

Close-up of chicken fried rice with peas, carrots, sliced green onions, and chopsticks.
Chicken Fried Rice. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Transform leftovers brilliantly with Chicken Fried Rice. This dish makes the most of what you have, turning it into a delicious main. It’s quick, easy, and a family favorite for busy weeknights. Always a smart pick when you need a tasty, resourceful meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Baked Beef Tacos

Two tacos with beef, diced tomatoes, jalapeño slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro on a white plate.
Baked Beef Tacos. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Jumpstart your meal plan with Baked Beef Tacos. They come together with minimal mess and effort, baking to crispy perfection. A novel approach to taco night, these are fun for everyone. Let the oven do the work for you and enjoy the results.
Get the Recipe: Baked Beef Tacos

Antipasto Salad

A bowl of salad with mixed greens, prosciutto, cherry tomatoes, olives, artichokes, and roasted red peppers.
Antipasto Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you’re into no-fuss meals, Antipasto Salad is the way to go. It throws together in a snap and it’s packed with a ton of variety. No one’s going to miss the stove with this one — it’s all about chopping, tossing, and digging in. Seriously, it’s a busy person’s dream come true when it comes to whipping up something quick.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

Chicken Noodle Casserole

Close-up of a chicken noodle casserole with a golden breadcrumb topping, garnished with chopped herbs.
Chicken Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Craving comfort without the crazy effort? Chicken Noodle Casserole has got your back. Just mix, bake, and serve; it’s as simple as that. This dish is a crowd-pleaser for any day of the week, and leftovers are a bonus. It’s hearty, cheesy, and guaranteed to disappear fast—better grab your plate first!
Get the Recipe: Chicken Noodle Casserole

Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

A plate of bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers filled with cheese, secured with toothpicks, next to a small dish of dipping sauce.
Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Who doesn’t love a bit of heat wrapped in bacon? These Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers are a bold move for an easy dinner, or work as a spicy kick to your meal. Pop them in the oven, and before you know it, you’re set to impress. Your evening just got a whole lot hotter without breaking a sweat.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

Chicken Pot Pie Soup

A pot of creamy vegetable and chicken soup with mushrooms, corn, peas, carrots, and herbs.
Chicken Pot Pie Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

So, you love the classic pot pie, but you’re not feeling the whole pie part? Chicken Pot Pie Soup gives you all that comforting hug in a bowl. It’s like the original went for a swim, minus the crust. Plus, it’s one pot, so that after-dinner cleanup is practically nada.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Creamy Beef Stroganoff

A close-up of fettuccine pasta with creamy sauce, reminiscent of Beef Stroganoff, paired with sliced beef, mushrooms, and sprigs of rosemary.
Creamy Beef Stroganoff. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Need something hearty on the table, pronto? Creamy Beef Stroganoff is your ticket. It’s a straight-up classic that never disappoints and it’s quick to boot. You’ll slide from prep to plate before you even know it—rich, comforting, and ready to make everyone happy.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Beef Stroganoff

Cheese Grits

Creamy polenta in a skillet, topped with chopped herbs and black pepper, and stirred with a wooden spoon.
Cheese Grits. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Cheese Grits are pretty much the ultimate southern comfort. They’re creamy, they’re cheesy, and they come together in no time flat. Perfect for when you want something filling but fast. Trust me, it’s a small effort for a big reward kind of deal.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Grits

Easy Chow Mein

A close-up view of a plate of chow mein stir-fried noodles with vegetables and black sesame seeds, with chopsticks visibly picking up a portion.
Easy Chow Mein. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Are you all about that take-out taste without the wait? Easy Chow Mein lands a home-run in your kitchen without the fuss. Toss everything in a pan, give it a whirl, and bam, you’re golden. Weeknights just got a whole lot easier.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chow Mein

BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes

A baked potato topped with shredded barbecue chicken, sour cream, and chopped herbs on a white plate.
BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes are what you call game changers. Fork into a spud, top it with some mouthwatering chicken, and you’ve got a winner. It’s pure homemade goodness without the all-day prep. This dish is where convenience meets home-cooking without a hitch.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes

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.

Small buns, big flavor, that’s what Meatball Sliders are all about. You can throw these together faster than you can say “dinner’s ready.” They’re perfect for when you’ve got a hungry squad and zero time to fuss. And, cleaning up is a walk in the park – more time for chilling out, right?
Get the Recipe: Meatball Sliders

Cacio e Pepe

Close-up of cooked spaghetti with cracked black pepper and a fork partially visible.
Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Simplicity is king with Cacio e Pepe. This dish is all about less being more, and it’s a straight shot to some serious eats. You’ll be dishing out plates that make everyone happy without twirling yourself into a frenzy. Trust me, it’s minimal effort with major pay-off.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

Cheeseburger

A cheeseburger with lettuce, tomato, pickles, onion, and ketchup on a plate. A bowl of lettuce is in the background.
Cheeseburger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Let’s talk Cheeseburger, the ultimate pick-me-up. It’s a classic for a reason and putting your own spin on it at home is a no-brainer. Grill ’em up, dress ’em up, and serve ’em up – all in record time. You just can’t go wrong with a good burger night.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger

Best Lemon Pasta

A bowl of pasta with lemon slices and parmesan cheese.
Best Lemon Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When life gives you lemons, make the Best Lemon Pasta. It’s light, it’s refreshing, and you’ll have dinner covered faster than you can say “al dente.” Just a few steps, a handful of minutes, and you’ve nailed it. It’s a bright spot in any dinner rotation.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe

Grilled ribs garnished with herbs and served with a side of sauce and onions.
Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Ribs in the oven, let’s go! Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe might give your grill a run for its money. They’re hands-off, sauce-on, and oh-so-tender. Slide them in the oven and let the heat do its thing—no flipping, no fuss, just fall-off-the-bone goodness. Perfect for game day, lazy weekends, or when the weather says, “Nope” to grilling.
Get the Recipe: Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe

Cheese Quesadilla

A person lifts a cheesy quesadilla slice from a wooden board. Nearby are bowls of guacamole and salsa on a light-colored table.
Cheese Quesadilla. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sometimes you just need something cheesy and straightforward. Cheese Quesadilla is your golden ticket. It’s quick, easy, and let’s be real, cheese and tortillas never disappoint. Hit the skillet, fold, cook, and you’ve got dinner on lock.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Quesadilla

Dauphinoise Potatoes

An oven dish with baked dauphinoise potatoes in it.
Dauphinoise Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Dauphinoise Potatoes are like the VIP of side dishes, but without the fuss. You basically stack ‘em and bake ‘em. It’s comfort food that doesn’t make you sweat it out in the kitchen. Plus, they’re practically begging to be paired with anything.
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise Potatoes

Beef Stew

A close-up of a beef stew with green peas and chopped parsley, showing a spoon partially submerged in the rich, red sauce.
Beef Stew. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Need something that screams hearty? Beef Stew is your new best friend. Throw it all in one pot and let it simmer into something special. It’s the kind of meal that’s ready to face off with any hunger—and win. Leftovers? Even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Beef Stew

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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