When it comes to cooking a delicious and satisfying dinner, there’s nothing quite like a home-cooked meal. Whether you’re looking for a classic comfort food or something new and adventurous, our list of 20 hearty homemade dinner recipes has got you covered.
From creamy pasta dishes to savory stir-fries, these mouthwatering meals are sure to become family favorites. And the best part? They’re all easy to make and require minimal effort, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal with loved ones and less time slaving away in the kitchen. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 of our favorite homemade dinner recipes that are perfect for a cozy night in.
Garlic Butter Steak with Roasted Potatoes
A classic combination of flavors and textures, this recipe brings together the richness of garlic butter steak and the earthy sweetness of roasted potatoes. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter and minced garlic.
3. Season steaks with salt and pepper.
4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic butter mixture and let it melt. Sear steaks for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
5. Meanwhile, toss potato wedges with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Serve steak with roasted potatoes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on steak cooking time)
Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta
This iconic Italian-American dish is a crowd-pleaser, with tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a velvety sauce that’s simply irresistible.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter 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, add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
7. Return chicken to the skillet and toss with pasta and sauce.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Margherita Pizza
Create a mouthwatering Margherita pizza at home with just three main ingredients: fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. This simple yet flavorful recipe yields a delightful Neapolitan-style pizza.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) high-protein flour
– 1 tsp active dry yeast
– 0.5 tsp salt
– 1 cup (250ml) warm water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 12 oz (340g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh basil leaves
– 2 cups (400g) San Marzano tomatoes, crushed
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
3. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, then let it rest for 30 minutes.
5. Roll out the dough to a thickness of 1/8 inch (3mm).
6. Place the dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Spread tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border.
8. Top with mozzarella cheese and fresh basil leaves.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
A classic combination of tender beef and crisp broccoli, quickly cooked in a savory sauce, makes this stir fry a satisfying and healthy meal option. This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
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 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, broccoli, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes or until broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return beef to the skillet and stir-fry everything together for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Tender, juicy pork and sweet barbecue sauce come together in this easy-to-make slow cooker recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw and pickles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Place the pork in a slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in barbecue sauce.
4. Shred the pork with two forks and spoon it onto hamburger buns.
5. Serve with coleslaw and pickles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon
This recipe combines the rich flavor of salmon with the brightness of lemon and the pungency of garlic, resulting in a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil over the salmon, making sure each piece is coated.
5. Sprinkle thyme, salt, and pepper evenly over the salmon.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through to desired doneness.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vegetable Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce
Savor the flavors of Italy with this classic vegetable lasagna recipe, featuring a rich and creamy Béchamel sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
4. Make Béchamel sauce by melting butter in a medium saucepan, then whisking in flour and milk. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Assemble lasagna by spreading Béchamel sauce on the bottom of a baking dish, followed by layers of noodles, vegetable mixture, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat for 2-3 layers, finishing with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Salsa Recipe
Summary: A flavorful and spicy taco recipe featuring succulent shrimp, crunchy slaw, and a creamy avocado salsa.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8-10 corn tortillas
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Avoiding Salsa ingredients (below)
Instructions:
- Fry the shrimp in hot oil until pink and cooked through.
- In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable and easier to fold.
- Assemble tacos by placing cooked shrimp onto warmed tortillas, followed by your choice of toppings (such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sliced avocado). Serve immediately.
Avocado Salsa:
- In a medium bowl, combine 2 ripe avocados, diced; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped; 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice; and salt to taste.
- Mix all ingredients together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: About 15 minutes.
Enjoy your delicious Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Salsa!
One-Pot Chicken and Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole is a staple of home cooking, made with simple ingredients and easy to prepare. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the rice to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly toasted.
4. Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pot and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Homemade Beef Burgers with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your backyard BBQs with this classic combination of juicy beef burgers and sweet, caramelized onions. With just a few simple ingredients and some TLC, you’ll be serving up mouthwatering burgers that will impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, cheese, pickles
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
4. Place onions in a separate pan over low-medium heat. Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
5. Grill burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
6. Assemble burgers with caramelized onions, buns, and your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cheesy Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines tender bell peppers with a rich and creamy cheese filling.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 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 bowl, mix together cheese, rice, onion, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the cheese mixture, filling as full as possible.
5. Place stuffed bell peppers in a baking dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Thai Green Curry with Coconut Milk
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this creamy and aromatic green curry recipe. Made with a blend of fresh herbs and spices, this dish is perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 cup Thai green curry paste
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, bamboo shoots, etc.)
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Stir in curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add mixed vegetables; cook until tender (5-6 minutes).
5. Pour in coconut milk and water; stir well to combine.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer; reduce heat to medium-low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pan-Seared Pork Chops with Apple Glaze
Elevate your pork chops game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the tender juiciness of pan-seared pork with the crunch and flavor of a caramelized apple glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-inch thick)
– 2 apples, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Transfer to the oven and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine chopped apples, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until apples are tender and glaze is caramelized.
5. Brush pork chops with apple glaze during the last minute of cooking.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
This classic Italian-inspired dish is a crowd-pleaser, with tender shells filled with a creamy spinach and ricotta mixture. A great option for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the spinach-ricotta mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a 9×13 inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until lightly browned.
7. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Classic Shepherd’s Pie
This traditional British dish is a staple of comfort food, made with tender ground meat and creamy mashed potatoes. With minimal prep time and few ingredients, it’s an ideal recipe for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, peas and carrots, broth, tomato paste, flour, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Transfer the meat mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with mashed potatoes and drizzle with melted butter.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken
Brighten up your dinner table with this flavorful and aromatic Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken recipe! With a burst of citrusy goodness from the lemon juice, and a hint of herbal freshness from the thyme and rosemary, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp chopped fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, olive oil, thyme, and rosemary.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
7. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegetable Fried Rice with Tofu
A flavorful and filling vegetarian option that combines the versatility of tofu with a medley of colorful vegetables, all wrapped up in a savory fried rice package.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 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 lightly browned, 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 cook until they’re tender-crisp.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Return the tofu to the pan and stir-fry everything together for another minute.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff
A classic Russian dish that combines tender beef strips with sautéed mushrooms, served over a bed of creamy egg noodles. This recipe is quick, easy, and flavorful, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 8 ounces egg noodles
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium; add mushrooms, onion, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add beef broth and Dijon mustard to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Return beef to the skillet; stir to coat with sauce.
6. Serve over cooked egg noodles and garnish with parsley or dill (optional).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Chicken Pot Pie
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in, this homemade chicken pot pie is made with tender chicken, creamy vegetables, and flaky pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
– 1 large celery stalk, diced
– 1/2 cup frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas, corn, and carrots)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken, carrots, celery, and mixed vegetables in butter until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add flour, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream; bring to a simmer.
5. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
6. Place the filling in a 9×13-inch baking dish, then cover with the rolled-out pastry.
7. Crimp edges to seal and cut a few slits for steam to escape.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines succulent shrimp with garlic butter, lemon, and parsley, served atop a bed of al dente pasta. A perfect 30-minute meal for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 2 tbsp butter, white wine (if using), and chicken broth. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Combine cooked pasta, reserved cooking water, and garlic butter sauce in the skillet. Toss to combine.
6. Add cooked shrimp back into the skillet and toss with pasta and sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
7. Serve immediately, with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a culinary adventure with these 20 mouth-watering homemade dinner recipes! From classic comfort food to international flavors, this collection has something for everyone. Enjoy hearty dishes like Garlic Butter Steak with Roasted Potatoes and Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta, or try your hand at new favorites like Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Salsa and Thai Green Curry with Coconut Milk. Whether you’re in the mood for pasta, pizza, or a quick one-pot casserole, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and become family favorites.
