Dinner time can be a challenge, especially on busy weeknights when you’re short on time and energy. But with these 20 mouthwatering recipes, you’ll have no excuse not to whip up something amazing! From classic comfort foods like steak bites with asparagus to global-inspired dishes like Thai red curry with coconut milk and tofu, there’s something for everyone in this list.
Whether you’re a busy professional looking for quick and easy meals or a family trying to get dinner on the table fast, these recipes are sure to please. And the best part? They’re all perfect for weeknights, when you need something that can be prepared quickly without sacrificing flavor. So go ahead, take a look at our top 20 picks below, and start cooking up some delicious dinners!
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Asparagus
Elevate your dinner game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines tender steak bites, savory garlic butter, and a pop of green from fresh asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strip loin or ribeye, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup fresh asparagus, trimmed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and butter until well combined.
3. Season steak bites with salt and pepper.
4. Place steak bits on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle the garlic butter mixture evenly over the steak.
6. Roast in the oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked to desired doneness.
7. Meanwhile, toss asparagus with salt and pepper to taste. Spread on a separate baking sheet and roast for 8-10 minutes or until tender.
8. Serve steak bites with roasted asparagus and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken Pasta
A vibrant and flavorful pasta dish that combines the brightness of lemon with the richness of parmesan cheese, all wrapped up in a comforting bowl of al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Add lemon juice, garlic, and heavy cream to the skillet. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and creamy sauce in a large serving bowl. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Honey Garlic Salmon with Vegetables
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this easy one-pan dish, featuring juicy salmon fillets cooked to perfection with a blend of aromatic honey garlic sauce and colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the salmon fillets, skin side up (if they have skin). Cook for 2-3 minutes or until browned.
4. Flip the salmon and add the honey, garlic, bell peppers, onion, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This recipe combines tender beef strips with crisp broccoli florets in a savory soy-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining oil, onion, and garlic. Cook until onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add broccoli to the pan and cook until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful and spicy shrimp recipe, topped with a creamy avocado crema.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado crema (see below)
– Lime wedges, for serving
Avocado Crema:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 lime, juiced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add shrimp to the spice mixture and toss to coat.
4. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with grilled shrimp, avocado crema, and lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetable Lasagna with Ricotta and Spinach
A flavorful and nutritious twist on the classic lasagna, this recipe combines sautéed spinach and ricotta cheese with layers of roasted vegetables and pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 16 oz ricotta cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 large eggplant, sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 large bell pepper, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a medium skillet, sauté spinach with garlic until wilted.
4. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese.
5. Layer cooked pasta, marinara sauce, roasted vegetables, and ricotta mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with the tender and flavorful pulled pork sandwiches, all thanks to your slow cooker! This recipe is perfect for a casual gathering or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw or pickles, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Place the pork in the slow cooker and add the brown sugar, water, and barbecue sauce. Cook on low for 8-10 hours.
3. Shred the cooked pork with two forks, then stir to combine with the juices.
4. Split the hamburger buns in half and toast them lightly.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by spooning the pulled pork onto the buns. Serve with coleslaw or pickles, if desired.
Cook Time: 8-10 hours
Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs with Rice
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of teriyaki sauce with the comfort of fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush with the teriyaki mixture.
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and caramelized.
5. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
6. Serve the baked chicken thighs with hot fluffy rice.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Cheesy Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Turkey
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines juicy ground turkey with creamy cheese and crunchy bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is heated through.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey mixture and top with shredded cheese.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and place on a baking sheet.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies
Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies Recipe
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this easy and flavorful sheet pan recipe. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal ready in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite seasonings or herbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. Arrange the sausage, onion, bell peppers, and garlic on the prepared pan in a single layer.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any desired seasonings.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the sausage is cooked through.
6. Add the broccoli to the pan during the last 10 minutes of cooking time.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Thai Red Curry with Coconut Milk and Tofu
A creamy and aromatic curry that combines the bold flavors of Thailand with the richness of coconut milk and the tenderness of tofu.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4-6 Thai red curry paste
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, bamboo shoots, Thai basil)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large wok or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add curry paste and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook until they start to soften, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Pour in coconut milk, water or broth, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
A flavorful and aromatic shrimp dish that combines the brightness of lemon, the pungency of garlic, and the richness of butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the lemon juice and stir to combine.
4. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and satisfying recipe, featuring chicken alfredo filling inside tender shells.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
4. Stuff each shell with the chicken alfredo mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Top shells with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff
Savor the rich flavors of this classic Russian dish, featuring tender beef strips cooked with sautéed mushrooms and a creamy sauce served over egg noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add sliced mushrooms; cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.
4. Add beef strips; cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Sprinkle flour over the mixture, stirring to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Gradually add beef broth and heavy cream, whisking constantly.
7. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
8. Serve beef and mushroom mixture over cooked egg noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Black Bean and Sweet Potato Enchiladas
Savor the bold flavors of Mexico with this vegetarian twist on traditional enchiladas, featuring creamy black beans and sweet potatoes wrapped in tender tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (vegetarian)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add sweet potato and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in black beans, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Wrap tortillas with the bean-sweet potato mixture, rolling them tightly. Place seam-side down in a baking dish.
5. Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Chicken and Veggie Skewers
A flavorful and colorful twist on traditional skewers, this recipe combines chicken breast with fresh vegetables and a drizzle of pesto for a deliciously Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 zucchini, cut into 1/4-inch slices
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pesto sauce, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken, bell peppers, onion, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes to the bowl; toss until vegetables are evenly coated with the pesto mixture.
4. Thread 5-6 pieces of the chicken and vegetable mixture onto each skewer.
5. Brush grill or grill pan with cooking spray or olive oil.
6. Grill skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spaghetti Carbonara with Pancetta
A classic Italian dish that combines the richness of pancetta with the simplicity of spaghetti, this recipe is a must-try for pasta lovers.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, cook the pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl with the egg mixture and toss until well combined.
5. Add the pancetta to the bowl and toss again to distribute evenly.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Chicken Bowls with Tzatziki Sauce
Greek Chicken Bowls with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe
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Discover the bold flavors of Greece in this easy and satisfying recipe for Greek Chicken Bowls with Tzatziki Sauce. Tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a refreshing yogurt-based sauce come together in a delightful meal.
Ingredients:
————
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Tzatziki Sauce ingredients: see below
Tzatziki Sauce:
—————-
– 1 large Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
————–
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and oregano. Brush the mixture on both sides of the chicken.
3. Season with salt and pepper. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, grill or sauté the bell pepper slices until tender.
5. In a small bowl, combine Tzatziki Sauce ingredients. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
6. Assemble bowls by placing chicken, bell peppers, and feta cheese (if using) on a bed of mixed greens. Top with Tzatziki Sauce.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Vegetable Fried Rice with Tofu
A flavorful and nutritious meal that combines the savory goodness of fried rice with the protein-rich benefits of tofu, all in one delicious dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu cubes and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the same pan; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cooked rice to the pan; stir-fry for about 5 minutes or until combined.
5. Return tofu cubes to the pan and stir in soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
6. Cook for an additional minute to allow flavors to meld together.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your tasty Vegetable Fried Rice with Tofu!
Baked Parmesan Crusted Tilapia with Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe. Moist tilapia fillets are coated in a crispy parmesan crust and baked to perfection alongside roasted potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Garlic powder, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Roast potatoes in a separate bowl with 2 tbsp olive oil, garlic powder, and salt to taste. Spread potatoes out in a single layer on a baking sheet.
6. Bake tilapia for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through. Roast potatoes for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
7. Serve together, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Tilapia: 12-15 minutes; Potatoes: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 delicious dinner recipes perfect for weeknights. From classic comfort food to international flavors, these mouth-watering meals are quick and easy to prepare. Enjoy garlic butter steak bites with asparagus, creamy lemon parmesan chicken pasta, or one-pan honey garlic salmon with vegetables. Explore other options like beef and broccoli stir-fry, spicy shrimp tacos, or slow cooker BBQ pulled pork sandwiches. There’s something for everyone in this collection of tasty recipes that are sure to become weeknight favorites.
