Getting dinner on the table doesn’t have to be stressful. These quick and easy dinner recipes are perfect for busy nights, with simple ingredients, minimal prep, and flavors the whole family will love. Whether you need a 30-minute meal, something kid-friendly, or just a no-fuss option after a long day, you’ll find plenty of go-to ideas here, with lots of gluten free and flexible options too.
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Easy Dinner Ideas for Every Night of the Week
Whether you’ve pulled a package of ground beef out of the freezer, want to make a simple chicken dinner, or literally need to make a no-cook meal because you really don’t have time, there are so many amazing recipes to make sure you get dinner on the table fast.
Here are some of our favorite easy dinner ideas to get food on the table fast. These methods and techniques help you make dinner in a snap!
One pot meals or one skillet meals – there’s nothing better than a meal that comes together easily and you only have one pot or pan to wash. Make something hearty like Chicken Corn Chowder.
Sheet pan meals or foil pack meals – toss everything on a pan, like this Italian Sausage Sheet Pan Dinner, or wrap it up in foil. Then pop it in the oven and you have a no-fuss meal with tons of flavor and, once again, easy cleanup. Maple Dijon Chicken in foil packets can even be tossed on the grill.
Casseroles – casserole recipes sometimes take a little longer to cook in the oven, but prep time is usually fast. During this time, you can be taking care of other things while it bakes.
Slow-cooker meals – sure these take a while to cook, but your hands-on time is usually minimal when you make dinner in your crockpot.
Breakfast for dinner – scrambled eggs, pancakes, oh heck, even sometimes a bowl of cereal is always a family favorite and simple to make. This can easily be a 15-minute meal if you are really pressed for time.
Instant Pot meals – those pressure cookers can do amazing things, especially when you forgot to defrost meat. This 8-Quart Instant Pot is perfect for family-size meals. I use it all the time!
Everybody is busy these days, but you still have to eat. Don’t let weeknight dinners get you down! Here you’ll find recipes that use chicken, plenty of beef and pork dinners, plus seafood like salmon, shrimp, and more. And, of course, we can’t forget vegetarian options for Meatless Monday and any night you want a plant-based option. Many are based on the different techniques and meal options mentioned above. Get ready to pick your favorite.
Fast Chicken and Turkey Dinners
Winner winner, chicken dinner! Whether you start with boneless skinless chicken breasts, grab some drumsticks or thighs, have leftover chicken, or grab a rotisserie chicken from the store, this is always a versatile protein. But sometimes you just need some new ideas!
Easy, cheesy, and covered in your favorite sauce, this is a family favorite you can whip up in minutes using leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken from the grocery store.GF
A dinnertime staple, this dish is faster, easier, and better than take-out, thanks to brown rice, shredded pre-cooked chicken, and colorful vegetables. GFO – use tamari or gluten free soy sauce or coconut aminos.
A few shortcuts give you simmered-all-day flavor in about 30 minutes. It's a fast way to enjoy all the aromatic deliciousness of a favorite Indian meal.GF
Combine your favorite spicy wing flavor and a classic kid-favorite dinner into one mouthwatering sandwich made with lean ground chicken. An easy and versatile family favorite weeknight dinner with a hot sauce kick.GFO – use a gluten free bun or on lettuce wraps.
You only need three main ingredients plus salt and pepper to make these flavorful chicken tenders. Whether you bake them in the oven or pop them in your air fryer, they are ready in no time.GF
Hearty, creamy, and delicious, this is cozy comfort food that will warm you up. Made with simple ingredients and naturally gluten free, your pressure cooker gives you slow-cooked taste with little time and effort.GF
These sassy, succy, and tender little meatballs are a versatile family favorite. Serve them over mashed potatoes, with fries, or with a scoop of mac and cheese.GFO – use gluten fre breadcrumbs or cornmeal.
Chicken is simmered in a creamy lemon herb sauce for a hearty main course that the whole family will fall in love with. It is fit for any special occasion, yet easy enough for a busy weeknight!GFO – make your own gluten free chicken tenders.
A satisfying one-pot meal made right on the stove. Your basic macaroni and cheese gets a comfort food upgrade because it’s loaded with chicken, bacon, and, of course, plenty of cheese.GFO – use gluten free pasta.
Kids and adults will love the sweet and tangy Dijon glaze. You only need a few simple ingredients and less than 20 minutes to make these the highlight of your meal.GF
Made with crunchy hard taco shells filled with slow cooked salsa chicken and beans, oven baked with two types of cheese, and then loaded with your favorite taco fixings.GF
An easy chicken recipe loaded with bold, New Orleans-inspired flavor! Homemade blackening seasoning transforms these chicken breasts into something truly amazing, with a delicious blend of Cajun-style herbs and spices. GF
Easy, fresh, and flavorful with only five main ingredients, and super versatile with quick prep. You can make it a hearty comfort food meal by serving it over pasta. Or keep it light, gluten free, and low carb with cauliflower rice. GF
Let the pressure cooker do all the work for this sweet and savory teriyaki dish. So many versatile serving options, and it’s even great for meal prep.GFO – use tamari or gluten free soy sauce or coconut aminos.
Seasoned, tossed in the oven, then slathered with a savory homemade barbecue sauce that is so simple to make while the chicken bakes. This easy technique ensures you end up with flavorful, juicy chicken.GF
Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Soup from That Skinny Chick Can Bake (GF) | Southwest comfort food cooked in your slow cooker for an easy dinner recipe on a busy day.
30 Minute 2 Ingredient BBQ Wings from Big Bear’s Wife (GF) | Proves that even wings can be one of your favorite easy dinner ideas.
Chicken Mozzarella Pasta from 365 Days of Baking and More (GFO – use gluten free pasta) | A simple dish with pasta, chicken, sundried tomatoes, and a creamy mozzarella sauce.
French Spaghetti from Simple Joy (GFO – use gluten free pasta) | A pasta and chicken dinner that can be made with a rotisserie chicken from the grocery store, making it perfect for busy nights.
Easy Beef and Pork Meals
Ground beef and different cuts of steak can be the start of so many meals from burgers and meatballs to steak bites and stir fries, plus so much more. And whether you choose chops or tenderloins or go with bacon or ham, pork is always a super flavorful option. I’m sure you’ll love these easy dinner ideas!
A few shortcuts and streamlined preparation make this comfort food casserole a weeknight meal. The entire family will love the savory meat and veggie mixture and cheesy mashed potatoes topping. Cutting carbs? Try Keto Shepherd’s Pie.GF
A family-friendly, quick and easy dinner made in a single skillet in less than 20 minutes. This deconstructed version of a favorite Asian takeout recipe can be served alone for keto diets, or with rice or ramen noodles. GFO – use tamari or gluten free soy sauce or coconut aminos.
So juicy and topped with a flavorful homemade sauce, you won't believe this meal comes together so quickly. Searing them creates a beautiful brown crust, and the garlic-butter makes them irresitible.GF
As tasty as a broccoli ham and cheese omelet, but in a much cuter package. Plus it’s a package that is totally acceptable to pick up and eat with your hands. You aren’t “scrambling” to make multiple omelets to get on the table at the same time for each member of the family. GF
Pack plenty of spicy and zesty flavor into tender pieces of sirloin steak. With only a handful of ingredients and in less than fifteen minutes you’ll have a fiesta for your mouth.GF
This is always one of the best Asian-inspired easy dinner ideas. It’s so simple but full of tone of bright, crisp-tender veggies.GFO – use tamari or gluten free soy sauce or coconut aminos.
You don’t need any seasoning packets, and the pressure cookie does most of the work. Just grab some spices from the pantry and you’ll have a big batch to to double duty for salads, burrito bowls, or nachos later in the week.GFO – use corn or gluten free tortillas.
So simple, this recipe, if you can even call it that, only takes minutes and a cast iron pan. Just grab some salt, pepper, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce.GF
Just minutes to make and you’ll have all the classic slightly sweet and tangy flavors and saucy deliciousness you love. A budget-friendly family favorite, it is almost as quick as using the stuff from a can. GFO – use gluten free buns.
Fall-apart tender and melt-in-your-mouth delicious! Flavored with garlic powder, smoked paprika, brown sugar, barbecue sauce and more, the sweet and savory goodness is out of this world.GFO – use gluten free buns or serve another way.
Southwestern spices, flavorful meat, hearty rice and beans, and plenty of cheese come together into a one pan meal that will turn any night into a fiesta. Just add your favorite taco toppings!GF
Ditch the bread and turn your basic baked potato into a satisfying meal. Stuffed with flavorful buttery beef, peppers, and onions, then topped with melty cheese and twice baked, that classic sandwich gets reinvented into an easy gluten free dinner the family will love.GF
Turn basic dogs into cheesy baked taquitos, aka crispy dogs. You can even make them in your air fryer. The only question is whether to dunk them in salsa or guacamole.GF
Coated with a thick, mouthwatering Dijon mustard and maple glaze. It has a sweet and tangy flavor that tastes incredible with salty, smoky ham. So quick to prepare and easy to make.GF
You are sure to delight kids and adults with this combination of childhood favorites. This hearty sloppy joe casserole is the stuff of weeknight dinner dreams. GF
If you have a pre-made crust or one in the freezer, you can make this kid-favorite pizza in a flash. The sweet and salty flavor is irresistible.GFO – use gluten free pizza crust.
Get ready to make perfectly juicy burgers in minutes without a trip to the drive-through. A less greasy alternative to those fast-food cheeseburgers, but they are still moist and delicious, especially when you add all of your favorite toppings!GFO – use gluten free buns or lettuce wraps.
A fresh re-interpretation of the classic Vietnamese street food sandwich. You'll love the flavorful pork meatballs, crisp pickled veggies and simple dressing. GFO – use gluten free soy sauce or tamari.
Also known as chili mac or a million other names, this dish is perfect for weeknights because it only has a few ingredients, and kids gobble it up.GFO – use gluten free pasta.
Make a takeout favorite at home with this quick version of a Chinese dish that uses a few simple ingredients. In about 15 minutes you’ll enjoy a fresh and flavorful dinner.GFO – use tamari or gluten free soy sauce or coconut aminos.
Creamy, delicious, and loaded with peas and prosciutto. This mouthwatering pasta recipe is easy enough for a weeknight dinner, and elegant enough for a special meal.GFO – use gluten free pasta.
Fire up the grill (or grill pan) for a simple way to bring on Mediterranean flavors. With this basic recipe, you can customize your meal to be gluten free, low carb, or paleo based on your choice of side dishes.GF
Smoky Tex Mex Sloppy Joes from Fake Ginger (GFO –use gluten free buns or on lettuce wraps) | Gives one of everyone’s favorite weeknight dinners gets a smoky, spicy twist.
Easy Beef Sliders from Love Bakes Good Cakes (GFO –use gluten free buns or on lettuce wraps) | Mini burgers that only need a little time and effort.
Beef Stroganoff Ravioli Skillet from Dinners, Dishes, and Desserts (GFO – use gluten free pasta) | Gives the classic comfort food a new twist using beef ravioli.
One-Pot Southwest Macaroni from White Lights on Wednesday(GFO – use gluten free pasta) | An easy dinner idea combining favorites of pasta and sloppy joes in one dish.
Slow Cooker Meaty Marinara from Lemons for Lulu(GFO – use gluten free pasta) | Made with turkey sausage and ground turkey means all you have to do is boil the pasta after a busy day.
Meatless & Vegetarian Ideas
Whether it’s Meatless Monday or you are looking for more vegetarian options, you can enjoy plant-based and sometimes even more budget-friendly dinners that are still loved by everyone in the family.
Everything you love about traditional eggplant parm, and none of the stuff you don’t. There’s still all the veggie goodness, a flavorful sauce, and plenty of cheese. But you have none of the work and calories of breading and frying.GF
It's a kid favorite that is so quick and easy, with only a handful of ingredients! Everything comes together as soon as the pasta is finished boiling, for a creamy and cheesy, family-friendly dinner.GF
You don't need meat to make a hearty pasta sauce. This one is loaded with veggies and chickpeas, and incredibly fast and flavorful.GFO – use gluten free pasta.
Light and fluffy, is a perfect quick and easy meal for busy days with only four ingredients and lots of veggies. Naturally gluten free, low carb, and meatless breakfast for dinner.GF
Topped any way you like it, you'll love this super easy crust that tastes perfect, holds up really well, and comes together with only a few basic ingredients!GF
These sesame noodles are full of bold flavors that blend beautifully to make the perfect sweet and spicy dish. You won't miss the takeout version, since there are no preservatives and everything is fresh.GFO – use tamari or gluten free soy sauce or coconut aminos.
This restaurant-style soup is rich, creamy, and super delicious. Enjoy this silky-smooth bisque made with fresh tomatoes right at home in under 40 minutes. GF
Only slightly more work than opening a jar of sauce, but with a flavor that blows basic marinara away. Ready in less time than it takes to boil pasta.GFO – use gluten free pasta.
Baked sweet potatoes stuffed with delicious Mexican spiced black beans, pineapple, shredded cheese and tomatoes. It has delicious sweet heat flavors and you can keep it vegan or serve it with cheese and sour cream, or any of your favorite taco toppings.GF
Seafood is so nutritious and many varieties of fish and shellfish cook super fast. But it can be intimidating for some people. So start with these easy recipes to get your feet wet, if you’ll pardon the pun.
Give your basic fish sticks an extra zing of chili and lime. Then pile them in taco shells with your favorite toppings. They are especially tasty with Mango Avocado Salsa.GFO – use gluten free fish sticks.
Kids enjoy eating this meal because of the barbecue sauce and cheese, but you'll love that they are eating seafood and quinoa. The shrimp takes just minutes and is done while the quinoa cooks.GF
A deliciously light and fresh warm weather dinner. It’s the perfect summer dinner recipe with its combination of seafood, vegetables, and let’s not forget the cheese, avocado, and, of course, bacon!GF
Succulent shrimp and cool, crisp veggies are tossed in a simple sauce and rolled up in rice paper wrappers. Serve with extra soy sauce or tamari, or even sweet chili sauce for dipping. GFO – use gluten free soy sauce or tamari.
A smear of pesto is a simple way to add bright, bold flavor to your salmon and potatoes. Add some green beans with parmesan to the mix and you have a whole meal on one pan.GF
No need for frying to make crave-worthy fresh tacos. These are quick, made by sauteeing tilapia in seasonings and lime juice, then topped just the way you like them.GFO – use corn or gluten free flour tortillas.
A sweet and savory Asian-inspired marinade is a fish recipe that even the non-seafood eaters will love. Drizzle your perfectly broiled salmon with the flavorful sauce and serve it with broccoli and rice or cauliflower rice to make it a full meal.GFO – use gluten free soy sauce or tamari.
A fresh, flavorful, and filling. It’s the perfect summer meal, and this one even has a bit of a Mexican twist with grilled corn, Cotija cheese, and a spicy Cilantro Lime Ranch Dressing. You’re going to be making this grilled shrimp salad all season long.GF
Sweet, sticky, and savory, this super easy dish has everything you love. Pan-seared shrimp and veggies are quickly simmered in a simple richly-flavored sauce. It is a delicious 30-minute seafood dinner you can serve over rice, noodles, and more.GFO – use gluten free soy sauce or tamari.
Parmesan Crusted Tilapia from Taste and Tell (GF) | A simple fish dish that is done in 20 minutes. Even non-fish lovers enjoy that cheese.
Lemon Garlic Baked Cod from Sweet C’s (GF) | Tons of lemon garlic butter flavor in just 20 minutes and one dish.
Crab Cakes from Savory Simple (GFO – use gluten free cracker crumbs) | These might just be the best you’ve ever tried when they are broiled to perfection.
Hi,
I tried and made One Pot Spaghetti and Meat Sauce for the first time and it was very tasty. Thanks for sharing they are all great and delicious recipes for dinner. They are easy to make and quick for family and friends.
Cheers
Great recipe roundup! I’m on the hunt right now for tonights dinner thanks! Thanks for linking up to Merry Monday! Sharing on FB! Have a great week!
Kim
Hi,
I tried and made One Pot Spaghetti and Meat Sauce for the first time and it was very tasty. Thanks for sharing they are all great and delicious recipes for dinner. They are easy to make and quick for family and friends.
Cheers
I’m glad to hear that you enjoyed the spaghetti and meat sauce recipe, Natalie!
Hello Briaane, all these recipes are very useful for me. I am going to trying all your recipes today itself. Thank you for sharing the information.
Great recipe roundup! I’m on the hunt right now for tonights dinner thanks! Thanks for linking up to Merry Monday! Sharing on FB! Have a great week!
Kim