Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen, only to be left with a mediocre meal that fails to impress your family? Look no further! In today’s fast-paced world, it’s essential to have a collection of go-to recipes that can be whipped up in no time. And that’s exactly what we’ve got for you – 20 quick and easy dinner recipes that are sure to become family favorites.
From classic comfort foods to international twists and healthy twists, these recipes cater to all tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a reliable weeknight solution or a foodie seeking inspiration for a special occasion, this article has got you covered. In the following pages, we’ll take you on a culinary journey that will delight your taste buds and simplify your meal planning.
Get ready to cook up a storm with our top 20 quick and easy dinner recipes!
One-Pot Spaghetti with Garlic Bread
This classic Italian dish is a crowd-pleaser, and this recipe makes it even easier to prepare. With just one pot and minimal cleanup, you’ll be enjoying a satisfying spaghetti dinner in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of bread, for garlic bread
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Add onion and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
4. Add crushed tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Simmer sauce for 10-12 minutes or until thickened slightly.
6. Serve spaghetti with the tomato sauce spooned over the top.
7. For garlic bread: Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Butter bread slices, sprinkle with minced garlic, and bake for 5-7 minutes or until crispy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas
Get ready for a flavorful and effortless meal with this sheet pan chicken fajita recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch, this dish is packed with tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and crispy onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken, bell peppers, and onions to the bowl; toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil; arrange the mixture in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
6. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
7. Assemble fajitas by slicing chicken and vegetables onto tortillas; add desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the beef into thin strips and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil.
5. Add the broccoli and garlic; cook until the broccoli is tender-crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Return the beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
7. Cook for an additional minute to combine flavors.
8. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of fresh tomatoes, basil, and creamy sauce with al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
4. Stir in the chopped basil, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Combine the cooked pasta with the tomato-basil sauce, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Tacos
Transform your Taco Tuesday with this effortless recipe that combines tender pulled pork, tangy slaw, and crispy tortillas. This slow cooker masterpiece requires minimal effort, but yields maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup beer or broth (optional)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Slaw ingredients (red cabbage, lime juice, and cilantro)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine pork shoulder, brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
2. Shred the pork with two forks and stir in diced tomatoes and beer or broth (if using).
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos with pulled pork, slaw, and any desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 8 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
Cheesy Baked Ziti with Ground Turkey
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, this recipe combines ground turkey with ziti pasta, marinara sauce, and a blend of melted cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12 oz ziti pasta
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey, onion, and garlic; cook until turkey is browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Stir in marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked ziti pasta and turkey mixture. Mix well to combine.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice
Brighten up your mealtime with this zesty and flavorful dish! Succulent shrimp are cooked to perfection in a tangy lemon-garlic butter sauce, served atop fluffy white rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cooked white rice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, 1 minute.
3. Add lemon juice, chicken broth, and mustard. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Serve shrimp atop cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Homemade Chicken Nuggets
Say goodbye to store-bought nuggets and hello to crispy, juicy homemade chicken nuggets! With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a tasty snack that’s perfect for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the egg and then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Dip coated chicken pieces into panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry nuggets in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vegetable Fried Rice with Tofu
A flavorful and nutritious meal that combines the best of Asian-inspired cuisine, this Vegetable Fried Rice with Tofu recipe is a quick and easy solution for any day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup 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
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pan and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked rice to the pan. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes or until the rice is well coated with the vegetable mixture.
5. Return the tofu to the pan and stir in soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.
6. Cook for an additional minute, then serve hot. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Get ready to spice up your snack game with these deliciously easy-to-make BBQ chicken quesadillas! This mouthwatering treat combines the classic flavors of barbecue and Mexican cuisine, making it a perfect blend for any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite BBQ seasonings. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Shred the grilled chicken into bite-sized pieces.
4. In a large skillet, brush both sides of tortillas with vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
5. Place a few pieces of shredded chicken onto half of each tortilla, followed by a sprinkle of cheese and cilantro (if using).
6. Fold the tortillas in half to enclose the filling. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese melts and the tortilla crisps up.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon
This recipe yields a flavorful and crispy salmon fillet with a satisfying crunch from the parmesan crust, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese.
4. Season salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
5. Dip each salmon fillet in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Place coated salmon on prepared baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Ground Beef and Potato Skillet
This one-pot wonder is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. With ground beef, potatoes, and vegetables, it’s a flavorful and filling dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the potatoes and peas and carrots, stirring to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells
Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells Recipe
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this creamy spinach and cheese stuffed shells recipe! This classic comfort food dish is easy to make and perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the spinach mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the shells and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Beat the egg for an egg wash and brush it over the tops of the shells.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honey Garlic Glazed Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this easy recipe that combines the sweetness of honey with the savory flavors of garlic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, mix honey and Dijon mustard in a small bowl.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and brush with the honey glaze.
7. Return to oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, until caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick and Easy Taco Soup
Quick and Easy Taco Soup: A flavorful and comforting meal that’s ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for a vegetarian option)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (16 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of water
– Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, and crushed tortilla chips for toppings
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, black beans, chicken broth, and water to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Mashed Potatoes
A classic comfort food combination that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound steak (such as ribeye or sirloin), cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, and beef broth.
3. Place steak cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the steak.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
6. While steak is cooking, boil potatoes in large pot of salted water until tender. Drain and mash with milk or half-and-half.
7. Serve steak bites with mashed potatoes and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole combines tender chicken, flavorful rice, and a rich cheese sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering. With minimal prep time and easy cooking instructions, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken until browned and cooked through.
3. Combine cooked rice, peas and carrots, chicken, and cheese in a separate bowl.
4. Pour milk and thyme over the mixture, stirring until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
7. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes to golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and refreshing dish that combines the richness of pesto sauce with the smokiness of grilled chicken. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine pesto sauce, olive oil, and garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the pesto sauce.
6. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the pasta. Toss to combine.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Black Bean and Corn Quesadillas
A flavorful and filling Mexican-inspired snack or meal that combines the creamy goodness of black beans with the sweetness of corn and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine black beans, corn kernels, olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle about 1/4 cup of the bean and corn mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Top with shredded cheese and fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted, flipping once.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken with Roasted Vegetables
A flavorful and nutritious dish that combines sweet teriyaki chicken with a medley of roasted vegetables, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp ginger powder
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, and snap peas)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, and ginger powder.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush with the teriyaki mixture. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Toss mixed vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
5. Grill or bake chicken for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve teriyaki chicken with roasted vegetables.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Summary
Looking for quick and easy dinner recipes to delight your family? Look no further! This article features 20 mouth-watering options that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From one-pot spaghetti with garlic bread to cheesy baked ziti, slow cooker pulled pork tacos, and more, these recipes are perfect for busy families on-the-go. With a variety of flavors and textures, there’s something for everyone in this collection of quick and easy dinner ideas.
