Make Dinner The Highlight Of Your Day With 29 Easy Recipes

Dinner should be the highlight of your day, not a stressful task. These 29 easy recipes keep things simple without losing what matters—getting to eat without the hassle. Whether you need something quick or a dish that looks impressive with minimal effort, there’s an option here. Just be ready for people to start expecting you to cook more often.

A dish of ravioli with bacon and parsley that can be found at Olive Garden.
Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crunchwrap Supreme

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

Quick fix for dinner cravings, Crunchwrap Supreme doesn’t skimp on a crispy outer layer and a hearty inside. It’s convenient for those evenings when you’re short on time but craving something fulfilling. A restaurant-quality meal is possible right from your kitchen with this choice. This dish has got your back on busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Crunchwrap Supreme

Roast Beef

Sliced roast beef served on a bed of mashed potatoes, garnished with fresh rosemary.
Roast Beef. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

When you’re aiming for a comforting meal, the classic appeal of this Roast Beef doesn’t disappoint. Perfect for family dinners, it needs minimal attention once it’s cooking. Tender and juicy results are a promise with every serving. This dish makes every meal feel like coming home.
Get the Recipe: Roast Beef

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.

If you’re looking for a vibrant, fulfilling meal, this dish combines textures and tastes in one bowl. Great for making use of leftover veggies and proteins, it’s a colorful solution to dinner. It keeps the dinner routine from getting boring, being quick and customizable. Easy Bibimbap is a colorful way to spice up dinner time.
Get the Recipe: Easy Bibimbap

Dense Bean Salad

A spoonful of chickpea salad with chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, parsley, and feta cheese being served from a bowl.
Dense Bean Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

No-fuss and nutritious, Dense Bean Salad is a nutrient powerhouse with a crunch. It’s robust enough to stand alone as a main dish, offering freshness and ease in one bowl. Perfect for a health-focused meal, it doesn’t sacrifice flavors for benefits. This salad is your answer to a quick and healthy dinner.
Get the Recipe: Dense Bean Salad

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.

For those in the mood for something with a bit of a kick, this choice is simple to prepare and simmers to perfection. It’s warming, comforting, and great for cooler evenings. Each spoonful is more flavorful than the last, keeping you coming back for more. Kimchi Stew is a bold choice for a flavorful dinner.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew

Hamburger Casserole

A close-up of a spoon lifting a portion of hamburger casserole, showcasing baked macaroni and cheese layered with ground meat and topped with lettuce and creamy sauce.
Hamburger Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Combining simplicity with comforting homestyle flavors, this dish is a one-dish wonder. Ideal for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers, it includes everything you need for a fulfilling meal. The oven takes over most of the work, allowing you to chill. Hamburger Casserole is your go-to for hearty comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Casserole

Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

Roasted chicken thigh with herbs, served on a bed of roasted vegetables.
Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Offers a hassle-free meal with a quick cleanup, just toss everything on a sheet pan. The sweet touch of maple pairs perfectly with the main ingredient for a delicious dinner. This all-in-one meal guarantees a flavorful, no-fuss dinner experience. Try Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe for an effortless yet complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

Million Dollar Spaghetti

Close-up of a serving of cheesy baked spaghetti with meat sauce, topped with fresh parsley, being lifted from a dish.
Million Dollar Spaghetti. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

As rich and indulgent as its name suggests, Million Dollar Spaghetti is as comforting as lasagna. It’s the ultimate solution for a hungry crowd, easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Seconds are a common request, so be prepared. This recipe brings the richness to your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

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.

Always a hit, they’re the straightforward choice that’s quick to cook and hard to mess up. Pair with your favorite sides for a meal that’s complete and satisfying. Simple ingredients lead to a robust meal, proving simplicity can still be impactful. Pork Chops showcase the beauty of minimalism in cooking.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops

Orange Chicken

A bowl of crispy tofu coated in sesame sauce, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, served on a bed of lettuce.
Orange Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Brings a sweet and tangy splash to dinner, challenging takeout with a homemade approach that’s just as quick. The sauce is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for casual dining at home. It’s favored for its refreshing twist on dinner. Orange Chicken is a go-to for those quick, lively meals.
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken

Ravioli Casserole

Close-up of a baked dish with ravioli, mushrooms, asparagus, and melted cheese on top.
Ravioli Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Layers of cheese, sauce, and your favorite ravioli come together for a gooey, delicious experience. It’s an easy, comforting choice for any weeknight, boasting minimal prep for loads of flavor. Baked until bubbly, it’s a hit every time. Ravioli Casserole makes for a comforting, easy-to-prepare meal.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole

Easy Chicken Tenders

Breaded chicken tenders served on a plate with dipping sauce.
Easy Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A meal that lands well with both kids and adults, praised for its crispy exterior and tender inside. Easy Chicken Tenders are a breeze to make, ready in less than half an hour for a quick, satisfying dinner. Paired with dips and sides, it’s fun and unpretentious. This recipe offer a simple pleasure for dinner.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Tenders

Dinner Rolls

Close-up of freshly baked golden-brown dinner rolls, with one roll partially torn to show its soft, fluffy interior.
Dinner Rolls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Soft, fluffy, and perfect for soaking up whatever’s on your plate, these Dinner Rolls are a must-have. They’re great for casual weeknights or a big meal with family. Light on effort but big on comfort, they come together with simple ingredients. You might need a second batch because they disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls

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.

Creamy Beef Stroganoff is rich, comforting, and way easier than it looks. Tender beef and a creamy sauce make it feel like a special meal without the hassle. It’s one of those dinners that never disappoints. Serve it up and watch it disappear.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Beef Stroganoff

Mushroom Risotto

A bowl of risotto with mushrooms and parmesan cheese.
Mushroom Risotto. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you want a dinner that feels fancy but is secretly simple, Mushroom Risotto is the way to go. It’s creamy, rich, and packed with deep, earthy flavors. Great for when you want something warm and filling without much effort. Just grab a spoon and dig in.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Risotto

Easy Meatloaf Recipe

A close-up of a savory meatloaf slice topped with a glossy sauce. The hearty meatloaf reveals visible chunks of vegetables like carrots and celery.
Easy Meatloaf Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

There’s nothing complicated about this Easy Meatloaf Recipe, and that’s what makes it so good. It’s hearty, packed with flavor, and always a hit at the table. Leftovers, if there are any, make the best sandwiches. This is comfort food that never lets you down.
Get the Recipe: Easy Meatloaf Recipe

Garlic Knots

Close-up view of freshly baked garlic knots with parsley and seasoning, resting on a parchment-lined baking tray.
Garlic Knots. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Light, fluffy, and loaded with garlic, Garlic Knots are hard to resist. Perfect with pasta, soup, or just on their own as a snack. They’re quick to make and even quicker to disappear—seriously, they barely make it off the baking sheet. You’ll probably want to make extra because one batch is never enough.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

A bowl of creamy chicken pasta garnished with herbs, served with a side of rice and a small bowl of fresh parsley.
Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you like bold and creamy pasta, Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta is the way to go. It’s got just the right amount of heat to keep things interesting. The sauce is rich and coats every bite perfectly. It’s a one-pan meal that’s as easy as it is delicious.
Get the Recipe: Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

Hasselback Potatoes

Roasted hasselback potatoes on a baking sheet with parmesan.
Hasselback Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, Hasselback Potatoes are way easier than they look. They make a simple meal feel special with their crispy edges. Perfect for a side dish that steals the show. You won’t go back to regular potatoes after this.
Get the Recipe: Hasselback Potatoes

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.

Layers of pasta, rich sauce, and plenty of cheese make Homemade Lasagna a dinner worth making. It’s comforting, filling, and even better the next day. Perfect for feeding a crowd or just making sure you have leftovers. This is the kind of meal that never goes out of style.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna

Lentil Soup

A hearty bowl of savory lentil soup, beautifully garnished with fresh cilantro, a swirl of cream, and an aromatic blend of spices.
Lentil Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Warm, hearty, and full of goodness, Lentil Soup is a meal that sticks with you. It’s easy to throw together and gets better as it sits. Great for a quick weeknight meal or meal prep for the week. One bowl is never enough.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Soup

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.

If you need a no-fail, show-stopping dinner, Marry Me Salmon has you covered. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor in every bite. Pairs well with anything but holds its own as the star of the meal. Make this once, and you’ll keep coming back to it.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Salmon

Pasta alla Norma

A pot filled with penne pasta in a tomato sauce, topped with grated cheese, basil leaves, and herbs.
Pasta alla Norma. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

This classic Pasta alla Norma is simple but full of rich, deep flavors. It’s an easy way to bring a little Italian comfort to your table. The sauce clings to every bite, making it one you won’t forget. Serve it up and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Get the Recipe: Pasta alla Norma

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.

Mini, messy, and full of flavor, Meatball Sliders are always a hit. They’re perfect for dinner or whenever you need something easy and fun. Juicy meatballs and sauce come together in the best way. You’ll definitely need napkins for this one.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Sliders

Penne Alla Vodka

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

Creamy, rich, and just the right amount of bold, Penne Alla Vodka is a pasta worth making. The sauce is smooth and clings to every bite perfectly. It feels fancy but couldn’t be easier to whip up. A great choice when you need something quick and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka

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.

Sticky, sweet, and just like your favorite takeout, Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe brings the flavors you love right to your kitchen. The sauce is thick and coats every piece perfectly. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but good enough for any occasion. Skip the takeout and make this instead.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

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.

Simple but packed with flavor, Pasta Carbonara is all about getting the sauce just right. It’s creamy without being heavy and comes together in no time. Perfect for a quick but impressive dinner. Once you try it, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making it all along.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Carbonara

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.

This Kung Pao Chicken has the perfect balance of spice, crunch, and bold flavors. It’s way easier to make at home than you’d think. Perfect for when you’re craving something with a little heat. Serve it up with rice and call it a meal.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

A dish of ravioli with bacon and parsley that can be found at Olive Garden.
Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Creamy, rich, and packed with flavor, Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara brings restaurant comfort food straight to your kitchen. The sauce is thick and coats every bite perfectly. It’s the kind of meal that feels special without being complicated. If you love ravioli, this one’s a must-try.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli 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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