20 Easy Dinner Recipes That Will Make Your Taste Buds Dance Tonight

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I’ve attached a video for every recipe below from my favorite home cooks.

Easy Dinner Recipes

Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen after a long day? Easy dinner recipes are here to save you time and energy. These simple meals can be whipped up in 30 minutes or less, using basic ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. From quick pasta dishes to one-pan wonders, there’s something for everyone.

Busy weeknights don’t have to mean boring meals. With these easy dinner ideas, you can cook tasty and satisfying dishes for your family without the stress. Whether you’re in the mood for tacos, chicken, or a comforting casserole, you’ll find plenty of options to keep your taste buds happy and your evenings relaxed.

Spaghetti And Meatballs

You’ll love this easy spaghetti and meatballs recipe! It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner.

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • 24 oz jarred marinara sauce
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Now, let’s get cooking!

  1. Mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

  2. Shape the mixture into 2-inch meatballs.

  3. Brown the meatballs in a large skillet over medium heat until cooked through.

  4. Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the meatballs. Simmer for 20-30 minutes.

  5. While the sauce simmers, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.

  6. Serve the meatballs and sauce over the cooked spaghetti.

  7. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if you like.

Enjoy your homemade spaghetti and meatballs! It’s a meal your whole family will love.

Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

You’ll love this classic comfort food! Here’s what you need to make a tasty grilled cheese sandwich:

Ingredients:
• 2 slices of bread
• 2-3 slices of cheese (cheddar, American, or Swiss work great)
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened

Directions:

  1. Butter one side of each bread slice.

  2. Place a skillet over medium heat.

  3. Put one slice of bread in the skillet, buttered side down.

  4. Add cheese slices on top of the bread in the pan.

  5. Top with the other slice of bread, buttered side up.

  6. Cook for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

  7. Flip the sandwich carefully with a spatula.

  8. Cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes until golden and the cheese melts.

  9. Remove from heat, let cool for a moment, then slice and enjoy!

For extra yumminess, try adding sliced tomatoes, ham, or bacon before grilling. You can also experiment with different types of bread and cheese. Serve your grilled cheese with tomato soup for a perfect combo!

Chicken Stir-Fry

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 pound boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, carrots, bell peppers)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Now, let’s get cooking!

  1. Mix soy sauce, honey, and cornstarch in a small bowl. Set aside.

  2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

  3. Add chicken to the pan. Cook for 5-6 minutes until golden brown.

  4. Push chicken to one side of the pan. Add veggies to the empty space.

  5. Stir-fry veggies for 2-3 minutes until they’re crisp-tender.

  6. Mix chicken and veggies together in the pan.

  7. Pour sauce over everything. Stir to coat.

  8. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until sauce thickens.

  9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

That’s it! Your chicken stir-fry is ready to serve. Enjoy it over rice or noodles for a quick and tasty dinner.

Tacos

Ready for a tasty taco night? Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 8-10 taco shells
  • Lettuce, chopped
  • Tomatoes, diced
  • Shredded cheese
  • Sour cream
  • Salsa

Directions:

  1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.

  2. Add the taco seasoning and water as directed on the packet. Simmer for 5 minutes.

  3. While the meat cooks, warm your taco shells in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.

  4. Set up a taco bar with all your toppings in separate bowls.

  5. Fill each shell with the seasoned beef and add your favorite toppings.

That’s it! You’ve got an easy, delicious dinner ready in no time. Enjoy your tacos!

Baked Chicken Breast

Here’s a tasty recipe for juicy baked chicken breast. It’s quick and easy to make!

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

  2. Put the chicken breasts in a baking dish.

  3. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken. Use a brush to spread it evenly.

  4. Mix the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika in a small bowl.

  5. Sprinkle the spice mix over both sides of the chicken.

  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.

  7. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

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You’ll love how juicy and flavorful this chicken turns out! It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Hamburgers

Here’s a simple recipe for tasty hamburgers you can make at home:

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 hamburger buns
  • Optional toppings: cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, ketchup, mustard, mayo

Directions:

  1. Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Gently form each into a patty about 3/4 inch thick.

  2. Season both sides of the patties with salt and pepper.

  3. Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat.

  4. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium doneness.

  5. If using cheese, add a slice to each patty during the last minute of cooking.

  6. Toast the buns lightly if desired.

  7. Place the cooked patties on the buns and add your favorite toppings.

Serve your homemade hamburgers right away while they’re hot and juicy. Enjoy your easy and delicious dinner!

Macaroni And Cheese

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups milk
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp ground mustard (optional)

Now, let’s make this cheesy goodness!

  1. Cook the macaroni in salted water until just tender. Drain and set aside.

  2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add flour and stir for about a minute.

  3. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens.

  4. Add salt, pepper, and ground mustard if using. Stir in most of the cheese until melted.

  5. Mix the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni. Pour into a greased baking dish.

  6. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes until bubbly.

Your homemade mac and cheese is ready! Enjoy this comforting classic with your family.

Pizza

Want a quick and tasty dinner? Pizza is your answer! Here’s an easy recipe you can whip up at home.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pre-made pizza crust
  • 1/2 cup pizza sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Your favorite toppings (pepperoni, veggies, etc.)

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

  2. Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.

  3. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the sauce.

  4. Add your chosen toppings.

  5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

  6. Let it cool for a few minutes, then slice and enjoy!

You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste. Try different cheese blends or experiment with unique toppings like pineapple or BBQ chicken.

For a healthier option, use a whole wheat crust and load up on veggie toppings. The possibilities are endless!

Beef And Broccoli

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 pound beef sirloin, sliced thin
  • 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Let’s get cooking!

  1. Mix soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, cornstarch, and water in a small bowl. Set aside.

  2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

  3. Add beef and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove from pan.

  4. In the same pan, add broccoli and 1/4 cup water. Cover and steam for 3-4 minutes.

  5. Return beef to the pan. Pour sauce over everything.

  6. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens.

Your beef and broccoli is ready! Serve it over rice for a tasty meal. This dish is quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights. You’ll have dinner on the table in about 20 minutes.

Quesadillas

You’ll love how quick and easy quesadillas are to make. They’re perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner in a flash.

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Large flour tortillas
  • Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • Optional fillings: beans, cooked chicken, veggies, etc.
  • Oil or butter for cooking

Directions:

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.

  2. Lightly oil or butter one side of a tortilla and place it in the skillet, oiled side down.

  3. Sprinkle cheese over half the tortilla. Add any other fillings you like.

  4. Fold the empty half over the fillings.

  5. Cook for 2-3 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook the other side.

  6. Remove from heat, let cool slightly, then cut into wedges.

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That’s it! Your quesadilla is ready to enjoy. Feel free to serve with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for dipping.

Try different filling combos to keep things interesting. Beans and peppers make a tasty vegetarian option. Or go for chicken and onions if you’re craving meat.

Baked Salmon

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 lemon
  • Fresh herbs (like dill or parsley)

Now, let’s get cooking!

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

  2. Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly grease it.

  3. Place the salmon fillets on the sheet, skin-side down.

  4. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

  5. Squeeze half a lemon over the fillets.

  6. Pop the baking sheet in the oven for 12-15 minutes.

  7. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork.

  8. Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.

Enjoy your delicious, healthy dinner! This simple recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty without much fuss.

Pasta Primavera

You’ll love this colorful and tasty pasta dish! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves (optional)

Directions:

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

  2. While the pasta cooks, chop your veggies into bite-sized pieces.

  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the vegetables and cook for 5-7 minutes until crisp-tender.

  4. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

  5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables.

  6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the pasta and veggies. Mix well.

  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

This quick and easy meal is perfect for busy weeknights. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or add some grilled chicken for extra protein. Enjoy your homemade Pasta Primavera!

Fried Rice

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 3 cups cooked rice (cold)
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup mixed veggies (peas, carrots)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Now, let’s make some yummy fried rice!

  1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.

  2. Add garlic and stir for 30 seconds.

  3. Toss in the veggies and cook for 2-3 minutes.

  4. Push everything to one side of the pan. Crack eggs into the empty space and scramble.

  5. Once eggs are cooked, mix them with the veggies.

  6. Add the cold rice and stir well.

  7. Pour in soy sauce and mix everything together.

  8. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring often.

  9. Season with salt and pepper.

Your quick and easy fried rice is ready! Serve it hot and enjoy your tasty meal.

Omelette

Here’s a quick and easy omelette recipe for dinner:

Ingredients:

  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Your choice of fillings (cheese, veggies, meat)

Directions:

  1. Crack the eggs into a bowl. Add milk, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.

  2. Melt butter in a non-stick pan over medium heat.

  3. Pour in the egg mixture. Let it cook for a minute until the edges start to set.

  4. Use a spatula to gently push the cooked edges towards the center, tilting the pan to let uncooked egg flow to the sides.

  5. When the omelette is mostly set but still a bit runny on top, add your fillings to one half.

  6. Fold the other half over the fillings.

  7. Cook for another minute or two until the cheese melts and the omelette is golden brown.

  8. Slide onto a plate and enjoy your quick, tasty dinner!

Feel free to experiment with different fillings to make your omelette exciting and flavorful.

Chili Con Carne

Ready to make a tasty chili? Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can kidney beans, drained
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Now, let’s get cooking!

  1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft.

  2. Toss in the garlic and cook for another minute.

  3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as you go.

  4. Sprinkle in the chili powder and cumin. Stir well.

  5. Pour in the tomatoes and beans. Mix everything together.

  6. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  7. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.

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Your chili is ready! Serve it hot with your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, or green onions. Enjoy your homemade chili con carne!

Tuna Casserole

Here’s a quick and tasty tuna casserole recipe you can whip up for dinner tonight!

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz egg noodles
  • 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained
  • 1 can cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 1/2 cup diced celery
  • 1 cup crushed potato chips

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

  3. In a large bowl, mix the tuna, soup, milk, peas, cheese, onion, and celery.

  4. Add the cooked noodles to the bowl and stir everything together.

  5. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.

  6. Sprinkle the crushed potato chips on top.

  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

  8. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your homemade tuna casserole! It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner.

Shepherd’s Pie

Ready to make a cozy, comforting meal? Shepherd’s pie is perfect for you! Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 4 cups mashed potatoes
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Brown the beef in a large skillet. Add onions and carrots, cooking until soft.

  2. Stir in peas, tomato paste, and broth. Simmer for 10 minutes.

  3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  4. Spread the beef mixture in a baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes.

  5. Dot the surface with butter and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden.

Your shepherd’s pie is ready! Serve it hot and enjoy your tasty homemade dinner.

Caesar Salad With Grilled Chicken

Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 large head romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1/2 cup croutons
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Cherry tomatoes (optional)

Directions:

  1. Mix Caesar dressing, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a zip-top bag. Add chicken and marinate for at least 1 hour in the fridge.

  2. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).

  3. Remove chicken from marinade and grill for 6-8 minutes per side until cooked through.

  4. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice it into strips.

  5. In a large bowl, toss chopped romaine with croutons and additional Caesar dressing if desired.

  6. Top the salad with grilled chicken slices, Parmesan cheese, and cherry tomatoes if using.

  7. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious homemade Caesar salad with grilled chicken!

This easy recipe is perfect for a quick and tasty dinner. You’ll love the crisp romaine lettuce paired with juicy grilled chicken and tangy Caesar dressing.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

You’ll need these ingredients for yummy stuffed peppers:

  • 6 bell peppers
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup shredded cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Here’s how to make them:

  1. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove the seeds.

  2. Mix the beef, rice, and half the cheese in a bowl.

  3. Stuff the peppers with the mixture and place them in a baking dish.

  4. Pour the tomatoes over the peppers.

  5. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.

  6. Uncover, add the rest of the cheese on top, and bake for 10 more minutes.

Your stuffed peppers are ready! They’re great for a quick and tasty dinner. You can even prep them ahead of time and just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.

Feel free to swap the beef for turkey or add veggies to the stuffing. It’s an easy recipe to make your own!

Vegetable Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make a tasty vegetable soup:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 2 potatoes, cubed
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup green beans, cut
  • 1 cup corn kernels
  • 1 cup peas
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Now, let’s get cooking!

  1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.

  2. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes until softened.

  3. Toss in the potatoes, tomatoes, and broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15 minutes.

  4. Add the green beans and cook for another 5 minutes.

  5. Stir in the corn and peas. Cook for 3 more minutes.

  6. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.

Your vegetable soup is ready! Serve it hot and enjoy your comforting meal. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you want a light, healthy dinner.