30 Easy Weeknight Dinner Recipes You’ll Actually Make Again
Ugh, weeknights. We get it. You’re tired, you’re hungry, and the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. But takeout every night? Your wallet (and maybe your waistline) will protest. Fear not, weary warriors!
We’ve compiled a list of 30 ridiculously easy, seriously delicious weeknight dinner recipes that you’ll actually *want* to make. Get ready to ditch the delivery menus and embrace your inner chef (even if your “inner chef” is more of a “hangry person with a microwave”). Let’s dive in!
These recipes are designed for speed and simplicity, using readily available ingredients and minimal effort. Think one-pan wonders, dump-and-bake delights, and dishes that come together faster than you can say “pizza delivery.” So, grab your apron (or don’t, we won’t judge) and get ready to conquer weeknight dinner once and for all!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe
This classic comes together in under 20 minutes! Simply sauté shrimp with garlic, butter, white wine (optional), and lemon juice. Serve over pasta or with crusty bread for dipping. So easy, so delicious, so impressive!
One-Pan Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken and Veggies Recipe
Toss chicken pieces and your favorite veggies (broccoli, carrots, potatoes) with lemon juice, herbs, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast until cooked through. Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor!
Black Bean Burgers Recipe
Canned black beans, breadcrumbs, spices, and an egg (or flax egg for vegan) are all you need to whip up these tasty burgers. Serve on buns with your favorite toppings.
Quesadillas Recipe
Seriously? Yes, seriously. Cheese, tortillas, and whatever fillings you have on hand (cooked chicken, beans, veggies) make for a super quick and satisfying meal.
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio Recipe
Garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and spaghetti. That’s it! This Italian classic is surprisingly flavorful and incredibly easy to make.
Sheet Pan Fajitas Recipe
Slice bell peppers and onions, toss with fajita seasoning and oil, and bake on a sheet pan. Serve in tortillas with your favorite toppings. So good, you might even skip the restaurant next time.
Tuna Melts Recipe
Canned tuna, mayo, celery, and cheese on toasted bread. Need we say more? A quick and easy comfort food classic.
Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe
Quickly stir-fry bite-sized pieces of chicken with your favorite veggies and a flavorful sauce (soy sauce, ginger, garlic, honey). Serve over rice or noodles.
Lentil Soup Recipe
Lentils, vegetables (carrots, celery, onion), broth, and spices simmered together until tender. A hearty and healthy meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
Pesto Pasta Recipe
Cook your favorite pasta and toss with pesto sauce. Add some cherry tomatoes or grilled chicken for extra flavor.
Scrambled Eggs with Avocado Toast Recipe
Scramble eggs to your liking and serve on toast topped with mashed avocado, salt, and pepper. A simple and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of day.
Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe
Grilled or rotisserie chicken, romaine lettuce, croutons, Parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing. A classic salad that’s always a winner.
BLT Sandwiches Recipe
Bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise on toasted bread. A simple yet delicious sandwich that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Mac and Cheese Recipe
Boil pasta, make a cheese sauce with butter, flour, and milk, and combine. A comforting and classic dish that everyone loves.
Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Recipe
Canned tomato soup and a grilled cheese sandwich. A simple and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Breakfast for Dinner Pancakes Recipe
Pancake mix, water or milk, and a little bit of patience. Top with syrup, fruit, or whatever your heart desires.
Chicken Nuggets Recipe
Breaded and baked chicken nuggets. Easy peasy for the kids. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces.
Baked Sweet Potatoes Recipe
Bake sweet potatoes until soft. Top with your favorite toppings, like black beans, salsa, and sour cream.
Salmon with Roasted Asparagus Recipe
Roast salmon fillets and asparagus spears with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt and pepper. A healthy and delicious meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Sloppy Joes Recipe
Ground beef cooked with tomato sauce, ketchup, and spices. Serve on hamburger buns.
Pasta with Marinara Sauce Recipe
Cook your favorite pasta and toss with marinara sauce. Add meatballs or sausage for a heartier meal.
Chicken and Rice Recipe
Cook chicken and rice together in a pot with broth and vegetables. A complete and comforting meal.
Quesadillas Recipe
Yes, we said it again! Because they are THAT easy and you can change the ingredients and never get tired of them! Cheese, tortillas, and whatever fillings you have on hand (cooked chicken, beans, veggies) make for a super quick and satisfying meal.
Egg Drop Soup Recipe
Broth, eggs, and soy sauce. This is a super quick and satisfying soup.
Bean Burrito Recipe
Canned beans, salsa, sour cream and cheese. Wrapped in a burrito and heated up. A quick and satisfying meal.
Yogurt Parfait Recipe
Yogurt, granola, and fruit. A simple and healthy meal that’s perfect for any time of day.
Cereal Recipe
Cereal and milk. A classic meal that’s perfect for a quick and easy breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich Recipe
Peanut butter and jelly on bread. A simple and satisfying sandwich that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Frozen Pizza Recipe
Bake a frozen pizza according to package directions. A quick and easy meal that’s perfect for a busy night.
Nachos Recipe
Tortilla chips topped with cheese, beans, salsa, and sour cream. A fun and easy meal that’s perfect for a party or game night.