Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Look no further! We’ve got 20 delicious food recipes that are perfect for weeknights. Whether you’re a busy professional or a family trying to get in sync, these mouth-watering dishes will satisfy your cravings and bring joy to your table.
From creamy pasta to spicy tacos, we’ve rounded up the best of the best to make your mealtime planning a breeze. Our recipes are easy to follow, use common ingredients, and can be prepared in no time. Say goodbye to the same old dinner rut and hello to a world of flavors!
Let’s dive into our top 20 picks for dinner perfection…
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy recipe that combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan, and a hint of nutmeg. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in or as a main course for a dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, fettuccine, or pappardelle)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Sprinkle flour over garlic and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually pour in heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the creamy sauce.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
A bright and flavorful chicken dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, this One-Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken is made with just a few ingredients and requires minimal cleanup. It’s a great option when you’re short on time or want to cook something delicious without much fuss.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, whisk together the lemon juice and Dijon mustard.
7. Pour the sauce over the chicken and season with salt and pepper.
8. Return the chicken to the skillet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, this beef and broccoli stir-fry is packed with flavor and nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye work well)
– 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
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the broccoli and garlic to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return the beef to the pan and add soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry everything together for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Honey Sriracha Glazed Salmon
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet impressive Honey Sriracha Glazed Salmon recipe. Sweet honey and spicy sriracha come together to create a sticky, caramelized glaze that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic powder.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over each fillet, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each fillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vegetable Lasagna with Ricotta
A classic Italian dish gets a delicious twist with the addition of ricotta cheese and an assortment of sautéed vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions)
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Assemble the lasagna by spreading a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange 4 cooked lasagna noodles on top.
6. Spread half of the vegetable mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the ricotta cheese mixture.
7. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat layers.
8. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
9. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork
This classic comfort food recipe yields tender, flavorful pulled pork with a tangy BBQ twist. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends and family!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup beer (optional)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Place the pork in a slow cooker and add the BBQ sauce, beer (if using), and brown sugar.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Shred the pork with two forks and return it to the slow cooker.
5. Toss to coat with any remaining juices and serve.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low), 4-6 hours (high)
Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful and spicy recipe featuring succulent shrimp, crispy tortillas, and a creamy avocado sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Avocado Crema (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced radishes, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together shrimp, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, lime juice, and garlic.
3. Grill shrimp 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 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled shrimp, Avocado Crema, and desired toppings.
Avocado Crema:
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Chicken
Moist and flavorful chicken breasts filled with a savory mixture of sautéed mushrooms and 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 grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, sauté mushrooms and garlic until tender. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
3. Stuff each chicken breast with the mushroom-spinach mixture, dividing evenly.
4. Drizzle tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Beef Skewers with Rice
Enjoy a flavorful and colorful meal with these Teriyaki Beef Skewers served with fluffy Japanese-style rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 8 bamboo skewers
– Cooked Japanese-style rice (for serving)
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add the beef cubes to the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Thread the marinated beef onto the bamboo skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill or broil the skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
6. Serve with cooked Japanese-style rice and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Baked Ziti with Sausage
This classic Italian-American dish combines the richness of melted mozzarella cheese, the savory flavor of sausage, and the al dente texture of ziti pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add olive oil, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked pasta, tomato sauce, and shredded mozzarella cheese in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and season with salt and pepper.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sheet Pan Lemon Herb Salmon and Veggies
A bright and flavorful one-pan meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe combines succulent salmon, tender veggies, and a zesty lemon herb sauce all cooked to perfection on a single sheet pan.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on one half of the sheet pan.
4. Toss the sweet potato, bell pepper, and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on the other half of the sheet pan.
5. Drizzle lemon juice and sprinkle thyme over the salmon.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and the veggies are tender.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Thai Red Curry with Coconut Milk
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this simple and aromatic red curry recipe, featuring coconut milk as its creamy base.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, bamboo shoots)
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic and ginger; cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
3. Stir in curry paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook until they start to soften.
5. Pour in coconut milk and water; stir well to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Potatoes
Elevate your mealtime with this simple yet satisfying recipe, combining tender steak bites smothered in garlic butter with roasted potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef top sirloin or ribeye, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat steak bites evenly with the garlic butter mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Place steak bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked to desired doneness.
6. Meanwhile, toss potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a separate baking sheet.
7. Roast potatoes in the oven alongside the steak bites for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes.
Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creative twist on traditional stuffed shells. Moist chicken and flavorful Alfredo sauce fill tender shells, making for a satisfying and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine chicken, Alfredo sauce, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the chicken-Alfredo mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Black Bean and Corn Quesadillas
A flavorful and filling twist on traditional quesadillas, these black bean and corn filled tortillas are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Stir in the black beans, corn kernels, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is heated through.
4. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
5. Spoon about half of the bean and corn mixture onto half of the tortilla.
6. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pesto Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles
This recipe combines the bright flavors of pesto, garlic shrimp, and zucchini noodles for a light and satisfying summer meal. With only 15 minutes of cooking time, this dish is perfect for a busy weeknight or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the zucchini noodles according to package instructions or by sautéing in a little olive oil for 3-4 minutes.
2. In a separate pan, heat the pesto and garlic over medium-high heat.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Combine the zucchini noodles and shrimp mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of honey with the tanginess of mustard. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, and thyme.
3. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
4. Place chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Brush the honey-mustard mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the top.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Vegetable Fried Rice with Tofu
A flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the savory taste of fried rice with the crunchiness of vegetables and tofu.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons 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 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cooked rice to the pan, stirring well to combine.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the rice is lightly toasted and the vegetables are tender.
6. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Return tofu to the pan and stir-fry everything together.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lamb Chops with Rosemary Garlic Butter
Elevate your lamb chops game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of rosemary and garlic butter with tender, grilled lamb. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, and chopped rosemary until well combined.
3. Season lamb chops with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the rosemary garlic butter mixture evenly onto both sides of the lamb chops.
5. Grill lamb chops for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
These earthy mushrooms are transformed into a flavorful and visually appealing appetizer by filling them with a classic Italian-inspired mixture of creamy mozzarella, sweet cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together mozzarella cheese, cherry tomatoes, and basil.
3. Brush mushroom caps with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the Caprese mixture, dividing it evenly among the four mushrooms.
5. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Looking for quick and delicious dinner recipes for weeknights? Look no further! This article shares 20 mouth-watering recipes to satisfy your cravings. From creamy pasta dishes like Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta to flavorful stir-fries like Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry, there’s something for everyone. Other highlights include Honey Sriracha Glazed Salmon, Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema, and Cheesy Baked Ziti with Sausage. Perfect for busy weeknights, these recipes are easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re a meat-lover or a vegetarian, there’s a recipe here that’s sure to please.
