When it comes to cooking dinner, it’s easy to get stuck in a rut. Whether you’re short on time or not sure what to make, finding inspiration can be tough. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll share 18 delicious and easy-to-make recipes that are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. From classic comfort foods to international flavors, these dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Garlic Butter Steak with Roasted Vegetables
This classic combination of tender steak, rich garlic butter, and perfectly roasted vegetables is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, bell peppers)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and butter until well combined.
3. Season the steak with salt and pepper. Grill or pan-fry the steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired level of doneness. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
4. Toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
5. Serve sliced steak with roasted vegetables and drizzle with garlic butter sauce.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Brighten up your dinner routine with this tangy and creamy pasta dish featuring juicy chicken, zesty lemon, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. This recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup creamy sauce (see below)
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Creamy Sauce:
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, whisk together lemon juice, garlic powder, and parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in heavy cream and butter until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and creamy sauce. Toss until well coated.
6. Garnish with parsley and basil leaves if desired. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Honey Garlic Salmon with Asparagus
This recipe is a flavorful and easy-to-make dinner that combines the sweetness of honey with the savory flavor of garlic, all wrapped up in one delicious pan. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 asparagus spears, trimmed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large skillet or baking dish with parchment paper.
3. Place the salmon fillets in the prepared pan, skin side down (if they have skin).
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon, then sprinkle minced garlic evenly over each fillet.
5. Pour honey over the salmon, making sure each fillet is coated.
6. Add asparagus spears around the salmon, leaving some space between them.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flaky.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the broccoli and garlic to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return the beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
5. Cook for an additional minute, until the flavors have combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful recipe that combines succulent shrimp, spicy kick, and creamy goodness. Perfect for a quick dinner or lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, and cilantro for garnish
– Avocado Crema: 3 ripe avocados, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1 tablespoon lime juice, 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together shrimp, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush shrimp with olive oil and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by placing cooked shrimp onto tortillas, topping with radishes, lime wedges, and cilantro.
6. For Avocado Crema, mash avocados in a bowl, then mix in sour cream, lime juice, and salt.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetable Lasagna with Ricotta and Spinach
This classic Italian dish gets a nutritious boost with the addition of spinach and ricotta cheese, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal for any occasion. With layers of tender lasagna noodles, rich tomato sauce, and creamy spinach filling, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, combine chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Arrange 4 cooked lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
6. Spread half of the ricotta-spinach mixture over the noodles.
7. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
8. Repeat layers, finishing with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
9. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches Recipe
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Get ready for a tender and flavorful pulled pork sandwich, made easy with your slow cooker!
Ingredients:
————-
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (optional)
Instructions:
————-
1. In a slow cooker, mix together pork shoulder, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. After cooking, use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
4. Split hamburger buns in half and fill with shredded pork.
5. Serve immediately and top with coleslaw if desired.
Cooking Time:
————
– Low: 8-10 hours
– High: 4-6 hours
Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches!
Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls
This recipe combines the flavors of sweet teriyaki sauce, savory chicken, and fluffy rice for a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for any day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green onions)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add chicken and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
3. Cook rice according to package instructions.
4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large skillet, heat remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp.
6. Assemble bowls by placing cooked chicken on top of rice, then adding sautéed vegetables. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon
Experience the perfect balance of crispy crust and tender fish with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 and pepper.
5. Dip each fillet in olive oil, then coat evenly with breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Place coated salmon on prepared baking sheet.
7. Drizzle with any remaining olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic.
Cooking Time:
– 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your dinner game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines tender chicken breast, earthy mushrooms, and nutritious spinach. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, sauté mushrooms and garlic in olive oil until tender.
3. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Mix softened cream cheese into the mushroom-spinach mixture.
5. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision to create a pocket.
6. Stuff each breast with the mushroom-spinach mixture, dividing evenly.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies
This recipe is a flavorful and convenient weeknight dinner solution that’s ready in under an hour. With just a few ingredients and minimal cleanup, you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal with minimal fuss.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian sausage links
– 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite seasonings or herbs (e.g. garlic powder, paprika)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. Place the sliced bell peppers and zucchini on one half of the pan.
4. Arrange the sausage links and potatoes on the other half of the pan.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the vegetables and season with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or spices.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the sausage is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Thai Red Curry with Coconut Milk and Vegetables
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this simple and aromatic curry dish, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, potatoes)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add red bell pepper; cook an additional minute.
4. Stir in curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk; bring to simmer.
6. Add mixed vegetables; cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Beef Enchiladas
This recipe combines tender beef, crispy tortillas, and melted cheese for a deliciously satisfying meal. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. In a separate pan, warm the tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
5. Assemble the enchiladas by spooning the beef mixture onto a tortilla, rolling it up, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Pour the enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and top with shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
This classic Italian-American dish is a staple for a reason – the combination of succulent shrimp, tangy lemon, pungent garlic, and rich butter creates a flavor profile that’s both bright and satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the butter and let it melt.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, 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 and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and add the lemon juice. Simmer for 1 minute.
6. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss with the lemon butter sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caprese Stuffed Chicken with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your dinner game with this Italian-inspired recipe, featuring succulent chicken breasts stuffed with a flavorful Caprese mixture and finished with a rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves.
3. Lay the chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the Caprese mixture.
4. Season the stuffed chicken with salt and pepper.
5. Drizzle olive oil on a baking sheet and place the stuffed chicken breasts.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. While the chicken is cooking, combine balsamic vinegar and brown sugar in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
8. Glaze the cooked chicken with the balsamic glaze and serve.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Instant Pot Beef Stew
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering. This Instant Pot beef stew is easy to make and packed with tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef stew meat
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt 2 tbsp of butter. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add beef stew meat, potatoes, carrot, beef broth, red wine (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 30 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10-15 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the richness of pesto sauce with the smoky flavor of grilled chicken, all wrapped up in a satisfying bowl of pasta. This recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, pesto sauce, and cherry tomatoes.
5. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the pasta mixture.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Black Bean and Sweet Potato Tacos
Savor the flavors of Mexico with these vibrant tacos, packed with nutritious black beans, sweet potatoes, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, avocado, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potato with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic, cumin, and chili powder; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add black beans to the skillet; stir to combine with spices. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning black bean mixture onto tortillas, followed by roasted sweet potato.
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your family and friends with these delicious dinner recipes that are easy to make! From savory steak and salmon dishes to pasta, tacos, and more, there’s something for everyone. Try Garlic Butter Steak with Roasted Vegetables, Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken Pasta, or One-Pan Honey Garlic Salmon with Asparagus. For a twist, try Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema or Vegetable Lasagna with Ricotta and Spinach. And don’t forget about classic comfort foods like Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry and Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches. There’s no excuse not to cook up something amazing!
