Are you tired of sacrificing flavor and nutrition for convenience? Look no further! As a busy parent, it can be challenging to come up with new and exciting meal ideas that your whole family will love. But what if you had a collection of 20 delicious and easy-to-make recipes that would become staples in your household?
From classic comfort foods like meatloaf and spaghetti Bolognese, to international twists on traditional dishes like teriyaki glazed salmon and cheesy taco stuffed bell peppers, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll share our top 20 family dinner recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights when time is of the essence.
Whether you’re a parent looking for a quick and easy solution to your mealtime woes, or just someone who loves cooking and trying new recipes, these hearty and satisfying meals are sure to become a hit with your loved ones. So let’s get started!
Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Vegetables
This comforting slow cooker recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a busy day when you want a warm, satisfying meal without much fuss. With tender beef and a variety of vegetables, this stew is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine beef, onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, and peas.
2. Pour in beef broth and add thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and satisfying recipe that combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan, and chicken. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp. dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp. olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Lemon Herb Salmon and Potatoes
A bright and citrusy twist on a classic comfort food dish, this one-pan wonder is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced potatoes and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Place the salmon fillets on top of the potatoes.
6. Pour in the lemon juice and toss everything together to coat.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Homestyle Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes
This classic comfort food recipe combines the rich flavors of homemade meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll be enjoying a satisfying dinner in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
4. While the meatloaf is baking, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with butter.
5. Serve the meatloaf sliced on top of mashed potatoes.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes for the meatloaf, plus additional time to prepare the potatoes.
Cheesy Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage
This classic comfort dish combines the flavors of Italian sausage, creamy cheese, and tender ziti pasta for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into pieces as it cooks.
4. Add olive oil, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Combine cooked pasta, marinara sauce, and sausage mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sheet Pan Honey Mustard Chicken and Veggies
Elevate your weeknight meals with this sweet and tangy sheet pan recipe that combines juicy chicken, tender veggies, and a sticky honey mustard glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes)
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, and olive oil.
3. Add chicken and veggies to the bowl; toss to coat evenly with the glaze.
4. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil; arrange the chicken and veggies in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs
A timeless Italian-American favorite, this recipe brings together tender spaghetti, homemade meatballs, and a rich tomato sauce for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 ounces spaghetti
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, onion, and garlic. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Combine cooked spaghetti and tomato sauce. Serve with meatballs on top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Rice
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines tender beef, crisp broccoli, and fluffy rice. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tbsp oil over medium-high heat. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tbsp oil. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add broccoli to the pan and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
5. Return beef strips to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve beef and broccoli mixture over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Chicken Enchiladas with Homemade Sauce
Easy Chicken Enchiladas with Homemade Sauce
These classic enchiladas are a staple of Mexican cuisine, filled with tender chicken and smothered in a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is easy to make and delicious to eat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken, onion, bell pepper, and garlic over medium-high heat until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
3. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over low heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable for rolling.
4. Assemble enchiladas by spooning chicken mixture onto a tortilla, then rolling and placing seam-side down in a baking dish.
5. Pour homemade sauce (see below) over the rolled enchiladas and top with cheese.
6. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Homemade Sauce: Combine 1 can diced tomatoes, 1/4 cup chopped onion, 2 cloves garlic, minced, and 1 tablespoon olive oil in a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly (about 10-15 minutes).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Soup with Bacon
Warm up with a creamy, comforting bowl of Loaded Baked Potato Soup, featuring crispy bacon and all the fixings.
Ingredients:
– 2 large baking potatoes, peeled and diced
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced tomatoes, chopped chives
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, milk, and butter. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches, then return to the pot.
5. Stir in crumbled bacon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with your desired fixings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches with Coleslaw
Get ready to fall in love with the classic combination of tender pulled pork, tangy coleslaw, and crispy buns. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for casual gatherings or quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
3. In a large Dutch oven or slow cooker, cook the pork shoulder for 8-10 hours, or until tender and easily shredded.
4. Shred the pork with two forks and stir in 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce.
5. Split the hamburger buns in half and toast.
6. Assemble sandwiches by spooning pulled pork onto the buns, topping with coleslaw (see below).
7. Serve immediately.
Coleslaw:
– Mix shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
– Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Vegetable Lasagna with Spinach and Zucchini
A classic Italian dish gets a fresh twist with the addition of spinach and zucchini, creating a flavorful and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cups chopped fresh spinach
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chopped onion, garlic, zucchini, and spinach until tender.
4. Combine marinara sauce with the vegetable mixture and stir to combine.
5. In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese with Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
6. Assemble lasagna by layering cooked noodles, meat sauce, and ricotta mixture in that order. Top with mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Homemade Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
This comforting pot pie is a staple of home cooking, filled with tender chicken, creamy vegetables, and a buttery flaky crust that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Egg, beaten (for brushing crust)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, carrots, celery, and peas in butter until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in flour, chicken broth, and milk. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
4. Roll out pie crust dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Fill with the chicken mixture and brush edges with beaten egg.
6. Roll out remaining dough and use to cover pie. Crimp edges to seal.
7. Brush top with beaten egg and cut a few slits for steam release.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Teriyaki Glazed Salmon with Roasted Asparagus
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines sweet teriyaki glaze with the savory taste of roasted asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tsp grated ginger
– 2 cups fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
5. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Brush with teriyaki glaze.
6. Bake salmon for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve glazed salmon with roasted asparagus.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers
Transform bell peppers into a flavorful and satisfying meal with this easy-to-make recipe. Filled with seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and crunchy taco fixings, these stuffed bell peppers are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 8-10 corn tortilla chips, crushed
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add taco seasoning and stir to combine; set aside.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the seasoned ground beef, chopped onion, shredded cheese, crushed tortilla chips, and fresh cilantro.
6. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with Linguine
This classic Italian dish is a quick and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. Succulent shrimp are sautéed in garlic butter and served over al dente linguine, making for a delightful combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 8 ounces linguine
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente, then reserve.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave the garlic butter mixture in the skillet.
5. If using wine and lemon juice, add them to the skillet and simmer for 1 minute, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
6. Add the reserved linguine to the skillet and toss with the garlic butter sauce until well coated.
7. Serve the linguine topped with the cooked shrimp, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this easy and flavorful slow cooker recipe that’s perfect for a family dinner or meal prep. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have tender and juicy chicken thighs smothered in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, whisk together honey, garlic, olive oil, soy sauce, and ginger.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the slow cooker, making sure they’re coated with the honey garlic mixture.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and a side of your choice.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Beef and Cheese Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this hearty, flavorful dish that combines tender beef, gooey cheese, and jumbo shells.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the beef mixture, followed by a sprinkle of cheddar cheese.
6. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish, top with marinara sauce and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of creamy tomato goodness, fresh basil flavor, and crispy grilled cheese croutons. With just one pot to clean, it’s an ideal weeknight dinner solution.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 teaspoons dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 slices bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons butter, divided
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
2. Add tomatoes, broth, heavy cream, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, toast bread slices and butter one side of each slice.
4. Assemble grilled cheese by placing buttered sides together and cooking in a skillet over medium-low heat until golden brown.
5. Ladle soup into bowls and top with grilled cheese croutons.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Easy Homemade Pizza with Custom Toppings
Make a delicious homemade pizza that’s tailored to your taste preferences. With this recipe, you can create a pizza that’s uniquely yours by choosing from a variety of toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Pizza sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Shredded mozzarella cheese
– Toppings of your choice (e.g., pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, etc.)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
6. Punch down the dough and shape into your desired pizza shape.
7. Spread pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
8. Add shredded mozzarella cheese and your chosen toppings.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 delicious and easy-to-make family dinner recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort food to international flavors, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Try Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Vegetables, Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, or One-Pan Lemon Herb Salmon and Potatoes – there’s something for everyone! Whether you’re short on time or looking for a crowd-pleaser, these recipes are sure to become new family favorites.
