Your Kitchen Your Rules 29 Homemade Dinners Made Your Way
Nobody said dinner has to follow a rulebook written by someone else’s grandma. Whether it’s bold, basic, weird, or wonderful, the 29 homemade picks let every household call the shots. Dinner rebels, assemble—this one’s for the folks who measure spices with their hearts and occasionally eyeball the oven. Results may vary, but the confidence is cooked in.

Three Cheese Manicotti

If you appreciate the classic Italian flavors, then Three Cheese Manicotti will surprise you. It combines cheese varieties for a heartwarming meal that’s both filling and easy to share. Your kitchen, your rules – this dish allows for mixing different cheeses according to your preference. Invite friends over for this comforting pasta dish, and enjoy a twist on tradition.
Get the Recipe: Three Cheese Manicotti
Hamburger Casserole

Comfort food just got more exciting with Hamburger Casserole. It’s perfect for those evenings when a simple, hearty meal is needed to end the day. Without the need for fancy ingredients, it offers a practical solution for dinner that’s a hit with both kids and adults. It’s all about crafting something delicious with what you have on hand.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Casserole
Pork Chops

Craving something hearty? Pork Chops are an easy go-to. You can make them as simple or as creative as you like – think of them as a blank canvas. Whether you’re cooking for one or preparing a family meal, these chops will stand out in your homemade dinner rotation.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops
Million Dollar Spaghetti

For those nights when plain old spaghetti just won’t cut it, Million Dollar Spaghetti is your upscale twist without the fancy price tag. This dish is about bringing a little luxury to your dinner table, effortlessly. It combines your love for pasta with the thrill of something a bit more indulgent. It’s rich, it’s hearty, and yes, it makes you feel like a million bucks.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti
Shrimp Burrito Bowls

Shrimp Burrito Bowls bring the sizzle of your favorite Mexican flavors right to your dining table. They’re a testament to the fun of mixing and matching ingredients to suit your palate. It’s casual dining loaded with taste minus the fuss of wrapping everything up. This dish encourages you to play with your food – in the best way!
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Burrito Bowls
Roast Beef

When you’re looking to bring a bit of elegance to your dinner table without turning your kitchen upside down, our Roast Beef is the answer. It’s about enjoying those moments that call for something a bit more special. This recipe promises a tender, flavorful centerpiece that’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make.
Get the Recipe: Roast Beef
Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

Weeknights just got a sweet and savory upgrade with our Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe. It’s all about minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Throw everything on a pan, and let the oven do the work. This dish proves that you don’t need a lot of time to whip up a meal that’s both wholesome and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe
Udon Noodles

Udon Noodles delivers that and more. They’re thick, chewy, and can be dressed up with a variety of toppings and sauces. Whether it’s for a quick lunch or a laid-back dinner, these noodles bring comfort to the table with minimal fuss.
Get the Recipe: Udon Noodles
Southwestern Chicken Quesadillas

Fancy a bit of spice and everything nice? Southwestern Chicken Quesadillas are here to add a festive twist to your dinner lineup. They’re easy, cheesy, and filled with flavors that remind you of your favorite restaurant. Best part? You get to enjoy them from the comfort of your home, no reservations required.
Get the Recipe: Southwestern Chicken Quesadillas
Ravioli Casserole

Try Ravioli Casserole for a twist on your average pasta night. Assemble, bake, and watch how this meal brings everyone running to the table. It’s the kind of dish that lets you be innovative with your fillings, depending on what’s available. It’s about bringing a touch of novelty to a familiar dish while keeping things straightforward.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole
Marry Me Chicken

If you’re in the game to win hearts or just make a Tuesday feel a little less like, well, Tuesday, Marry Me Chicken has got you covered. It’s creamy, its indulgent, and it’s got that “wow” factor without hours of prep. This dish is your secret weapon for dinner dates or when you just want to celebrate the small moments in life.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken
Beef Pot Pie

Cold days call for a dish that’s both heartwarming and hearty. Beef Pot Pie is the epitome of comfort food, wrapped up in a flaky crust. It’s your go-to when you crave something that feels like a warm embrace. Dive fork-first into this when you need a little cozy in your life.
Get the Recipe: Beef Pot Pie
Hasselback Potatoes

Hasselback Potatoes offer a unique and elegant spin on baked potatoes. They’re both visually appealing and delicious, with a crispy outside and a tender inside. They can be customized with various toppings, each adding a new dimension of flavor. This dish is about upgrading the humble potato to something extraordinary.
Get the Recipe: Hasselback Potatoes
Shrimp Scampi

Imagine coming home to a dish that’s as elegant as it is easy. Shrimp Scampi is all about adding a dash of gourmet to your everyday meals. It’s light, it’s flavorful, and it promises to add a bit of flair to your dinner routine. Perfect for those nights when you want to pamper yourself without too much effort.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi
Kung Pao Chicken

For those who love a bit of a kick, Kung Pao Chicken is your bold pick. It’s fast, it’s fiery, and you can tweak the heat to your liking. A popular dish for a reason, it brings excitement to dinner time with its punchy flavors. It’s about embracing the spice of life right from your own kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken
Mashed Potatoes

There’s something about Mashed Potatoes that just feels like home. They’re creamy, they’re comforting, and they’re the perfect sidekick to just about any main. Whether you’re keeping it classic or spicing them up, these are a staple that promises to please every time.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes
Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

Craving something that packs a bit of heat? Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta is your quick fix to a flavorful dinner. It’s the perfect mix of creamy and spicy, bringing a little adventure to your pasta night. Whip this up when you’re in the mood for something exciting and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta
Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs are about low-effort, high-reward cooking. Let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting while you enjoy the aromas filling your kitchen. This dish is a nod to nostalgia, reinventing a classic for modern tastes. It proves that some things only get better with time, like a good homemade meatball.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Garlic Knots

No meal is truly complete without a side of warm, garlicky goodness. Garlic Knots are here to make sure of that. They’re fluffy, they’re flavorful, and they’re the perfect companion to any dish. They’re an easy way to bring a touch of homemade into any meal.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots
Easy Meatloaf Recipe

For a taste of nostalgia that doesn’t take a lifetime to prepare, our Easy Meatloaf Recipe has got you covered. It’s hearty, it’s flavorful, and it’s as classic as it gets. This is what you reach for when you want to feel like a kitchen pro without all the fuss. It’s simple, satisfying, and always hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Easy Meatloaf Recipe
Southwest Sweet Potatoes

Looking to add a colorful twist to your dinner staples? Southwest Sweet Potatoes are vibrant, flavorful, and offer a refreshing change from the norm. They’re easy to make and packed with taste, ensuring your meal is anything but boring. Dig into this when you want to spice up your dinner rotation.
Get the Recipe: Southwest Sweet Potatoes
Meatball Sliders

When you need something that’ll be a hit with both kids and adults alike, Meatball Sliders are your go-to. They’re fun, they’re tasty, and they’re perfect for any casual gathering. Think of these as your ace in the hole for those days when you want to keep everyone happy without sweating it in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Sliders
Penne Alla Vodka

In the mood for Italian but want to skip the usual suspects? Penne Alla Vodka is here with its creamy tomato sauce to give your pasta night a fancy twist. It’s simple yet sophisticated, proving you can bring a bit of elegance to weekday meals without breaking the bank. It’s a surefire way to impress at the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Who doesn’t love coming home to a meal that’s ready to eat? Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is all about setting it and forgetting it. It’s tender, it’s flavorful, and it practically makes itself. This is your answer to busy days when you still want a home-cooked meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Thai Drunken Noodles

Craving an exotic escape without leaving your kitchen? Thai Drunken Noodles offer up a spicy adventure that’s as fun to eat as it is to make. They’re bold, they’re aromatic, and they’re sure to add some excitement to your meal routine. Perfect for when you’re in the mood for something different.
Get the Recipe: Thai Drunken Noodles
Lentil Soup

On chilly days, nothing beats the cozy warmth of a bowl of Lentil Soup. It’s hearty, it’s nutritious, and it’s comforting in every spoonful. This is your go-to when you need something that’s both simple and satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to get your veggies in.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Soup
Mushroom Risotto

Dreaming of a fancy Italian dinner that doesn’t require a chef’s hat? Mushroom Risotto is your at-home luxury, blending creamy textures with deep flavors. It’s surprisingly straightforward to make and guarantees a gourmet experience. This dish is perfect for those nights when you want to treat yourself.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Risotto
Spaghetti Bolognese

Spaghetti Bolognese is a timeless dish that deserves its place in the home-cooking hall of fame. It’s a robust and hearty meal that brings a touch of Italian finesse to the table. Perfect for feeding the whole family, it epitomizes what we love about pasta dishes. It’s about coming together over a meal that’s universally enjoyed.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Bolognese
Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Want a meal that’s both delicious and hassle-free? Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken is your answer. It’s crunchy, it’s juicy, and it gets everything done in one pan. This dish is about making dinner enjoyable, not just another chore. Perfect for busy evenings when time is of the essence.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken
About the Author

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.
