28 dinners you’ve probably never tried (But you really should)

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Dinners can get pretty repetitive, right? Same old, same old. But what if we told you there’s a whole world of recipes out there that you’ve probably never tried? And no, we’re not talking about weird food trends you keep seeing on social media. These are genuinely great dishes that deserve a spot on your table. So, buckle up and get ready to break free from your dinner rut. You might just find your new favorite meal in this list.

Stuffed bell pepper casserole in a pan with a wooden spoon.
Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Spinach Chicken Bake

A serving spoon serving of creamy spinach chicken bake.
Spinach Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

The Spinach Chicken Bake is the perfect solution for a quick dinner on a busy weeknight. Lay down marinated chicken, pile on some spinach, and top with cheese before baking it all together until it is bubbly and perfectly melted. This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it great for when time is short but you still want a nourishing meal. Plus, it’s a dish that requires little watching, letting you multitask or unwind after a long day. It combines the robust flavors of chicken and the freshness of spinach, serving a meal that is as easy as it is delicious.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Chicken Bake

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

A plate of garlic butter chicken bites.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a quick and easy dinner option, ready in just 20 minutes. These bites combine the great flavor of tender chicken with a rich garlic butter sauce. With minimal ingredients needed, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a straightforward recipe that doesn’t compromise on taste, great for those evenings when you’re short on time but still want a meal that feels a bit special. It’s a hit for adults and kids, making dinner time smoother.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Reuben Bowls

A bowl of coleslaw with creamy dressing, garnished with green onions, served in a ceramic bowl with a fork.
Reuben Bowls. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Reuben Bowls make dinner easy and fast, with a total prep and cook time of 30 minutes. This recipe simplifies the classic Reuben sandwich into a bowl format, featuring browned corned beef, crunchy coleslaw or cabbage, tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and creamy Thousand Island dressing. It’s an effortless meal that packs all the flavors of a deli favorite. Perfect for a quick dinner, it saves time and reduces kitchen cleanup, giving a practical solution to busy schedules.
Get the Recipe: Reuben Bowls

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

A casserole dish filled with broccoli and cheese.
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole is your solution for a fast and delicious dinner. It’s made by mixing broccoli, cauliflower, cheddar cheese, and bacon, and baking everything together for about 30 minutes. The result is a creamy, cheesy dish that’s perfect for any night needing a quick, comforting meal. This casserole requires minimal prep and cleanup, making it perfect for busy evenings when time is tight but you still want a good, hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

A casserole dish filled with tater tots, shredded chicken, and corn, topped with melted cheese and green onions.
Chicken Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is a comforting and convenient dish, ready in under an hour. It layers shredded chicken, crispy tater tots, and corn, topped with melted cheese and green onions for a crowd-pleasing meal. This casserole is great for busy families as it can be prepared and freezes well. It combines with taste, making it a recurring favorite in your dinner rotation, and it helps reduce dinner-time stress with its simple prep and delicious flavors.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

Shake and Bake Pork Chops

Two shake and bake pork chops on a plate.
Shake and Bake Pork Chops. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Shake and Bake Pork Chops are your go-to when you need something quick and easy. This recipe involves coating the pork chops in mayo, and a mix of breadcrumbs and herbs and baking them until they are perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Ready in just 25 minutes, these pork chops are a great choice for a weeknight meal. They give a pleasing texture and rich flavor, making any dinner feel more special. Plus, the easy cleanup means more time to relax in the evening.
Get the Recipe: Shake and Bake Pork Chops

Baked Ravioli

A close-up of a cheesy baked ravioli garnished with herbs, with a fork lifting a portion to show the melted cheese.
Baked Ravioli. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Baked Ravioli is a comforting dish that’s simpler than making lasagna. Start with ready-to-bake cheese ravioli, layer it with marinara sauce and shredded cheese, and bake until everything is hot and the cheese is gooey. This meal takes about an hour to prepare and is a great option for those evenings when you’re looking for comfort without complexity. It’s also a great way to introduce kids to cooking, as they can help assemble the layers. This dish makes a hearty dinner that allows you to spend less time cooking and more time enjoying the meal with your family.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ravioli

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Stuffed bell pepper casserole in a pot.
Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole is an easy-to-make dinner that combines ground beef, rice, bell peppers, tomato sauce, and cheese into a hearty meal. Mix the ingredients and bake, allowing you to multitask or unwind as dinner cooks. Ready in about an hour, it’s a stress-free option that serves the whole family with a comforting meal that cuts down on kitchen time. This dish is great for those evenings when you’re looking for a filling meal but want to keep the dinner routine simple.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

A fresh Caesar salad with chicken, croutons, tomatoes, and dressing, served in a large white bowl with a fork.
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a fast and fresh option, ready in 25 minutes. It uses pre-cooked chicken and ready-made dressing to reduce prep time, making it great for a quick meal or a light dinner. This salad mixes pasta with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and rich Caesar dressing for a refreshing meal. This salad is perfect for those days when time is short, but you still crave a light, filling meal. It’s also a great way to keep your evening free from complicated cooking, giving you more time to relax or catch up on other tasks.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

Cheesy beef casserole with cauliflower rice and spinach being spooned out of a baking dish.
Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach is an easy-to-assemble dinner that cooks quickly, giving a nutritious and filling meal. It features ground beef, cauliflower rice, and spinach under a layer of melted cheese. Ready in about 30 minutes, this casserole is perfect for a no-stress dinner without skimping on taste or nutrition. It’s a smart choice for those evenings when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen, making fitting a good dinner into your busy schedule easier.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

Cabbage and Sausage

A pan of cabbage and sausage garnished with fresh herbs.
Cabbage and Sausage. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Cabbage and Sausage recipe brings you a hearty meal that can be cooked in one pan and is ready in under 30 minutes. The dish features slices of sausage paired with wedges of cabbage, cooked until tender. This simple preparation allows the cabbage to soak up the rich flavors of the sausage, creating a dish full of hearty bites. It’s a perfect meal for when you’re short on time but still want something that feels like a real dinner. This recipe shows that you don’t need hours in the kitchen to prepare a meal that keeps everyone at the table happy and satisfied.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage

Crock Pot Taco Soup

A crock pot of taco soup.
Crock Pot Taco Soup. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Crock Pot Taco Soup is perfect when you’d rather not be stuck in the kitchen. Start browning some beef, then toss it into the slow cooker with ingredients like diced tomatoes, green chilies, heavy cream, and taco seasoning. Let it cook slowly to combine the flavors into a rich, hearty soup ready with minimal effort. It’s perfect for busy schedules, allowing you to enjoy a comforting meal without the stress of cooking. This soup can be a lifesaver during busy weeks, serving a delicious dinner that practically makes itself.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Taco Soup

Tuna Macaroni Salad

Close-up of a creamy pasta salad sprinkled with paprika and garnished with chopped herbs in a white bowl.
Tuna Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Tuna Macaroni Salad is a straightforward dish that comes together in 40 minutes. It mixes tender pasta with chunks of flaky tuna and a creamy, lightly tangy dressing. This dish is great for a last-minute dinner or a side dish that can be prepared beforehand. It’s also a practical choice for potlucks or outdoor meals since it can be served cold and easily transported. This salad gives a good mix of carbs and protein, keeping you full and satisfied without the need for elaborate cooking. It’s a simple meal perfect for days when you’re looking for convenience.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Macaroni Salad

Broccoli Casserole

A casserole dish with broccoli and cheese in it.
Broccoli Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Broccoli Casserole is a cozy and comforting meal that can be prepared in about 50 minutes. It combines tender broccoli with a creamy base of cream of mushroom soup, eggs, sour cream or Greek yogurt, and sharp cheddar cheese. This casserole is easy to make and comforting on a busy day. It’s perfect for those seeking a hearty meal with minimal kitchen time. This dish is also great for gatherings, as it can be prepared ahead, leaving more time to spend with family or guests.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole

Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Sausage and veggies sheet pan dinner with a spoon.
Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner is the ultimate easy meal. Just toss broccoli, zucchini, mini peppers, and sausages onto a sheet pan and let the oven do the work. Ready in about 35 minutes, this dish serves a flavorful and hearty meal with minimal cleanup required. It’s great for those nights when you want to serve a good meal but need to keep things simple. This dinner saves on washing up and keeps everyone happy and full. This meal allows you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time on what matters.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

A casserole dish filled with pasta and peas.
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole is about as straightforward as it gets. It combines egg noodles, canned tuna, milk, and peas in a dish, sprinkle with cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake until golden. This meal requires just 15 minutes of prep time and is a great choice for a no-stress dinner. This dish is enticing if you’re looking for something comforting without spending too much time or effort in the kitchen. It’s the kind of dinner that takes care of itself, leaving you free to relax.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

Chicken Tortellini Soup

A bowl of chicken tortellini soup with vegetables and herbs.
Chicken Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Tortellini Soup is a comforting and quick meal option that combines chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, fresh carrots and celery in a rich broth. It comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for a last-minute dinner. This soup is a complete meal that warms and fills you up, saving you time and energy on busy days. It’s particularly good for those chilly evenings when you need a hot meal that’s both comforting and simple to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortellini Soup

Fajita Baked Chicken

Cheesy chicken fajita bake in a baking pan.
Fajita Baked Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Fajita Baked Chicken serves a flavorful meal in just 30 minutes. This dish involves seasoning the chicken with fajita spices, adding layers of cream cheese and mozzarella, and baking it perfectly. It’s a straightforward recipe that results in a creamy, spicy chicken dish great for any dinner table. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a quick meal full of flavor but doesn’t take much effort, allowing you to enjoy your evening without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Fajita Baked Chicken

Fried Cabbage with Bacon

A pan full of bacon and cabbage with a wooden spoon.
Fried Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Fried Cabbage with Bacon is a quick, easy dish that is ready in 25 minutes. It combines bacon, onions, and cabbage for a hearty meal that’s big on flavor without being complicated to make. This dish is perfect for nights when you need something fast and filling. It’s a practical choice for busy people who don’t have much time to cook but still want a good and straightforward meal. It’s a great way to quickly get a delicious dinner on the table, leaving more time to relax.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Canned Chicken Patties

Chicken patties with broccoli on a plate.
Canned Chicken Patties. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Canned Chicken Patties make dinner easy and are ready in just 20 minutes. These patties are made by mixing canned chicken with sunflower seed meal, Parmesan, and spices, then frying until golden. They are perfect for a fast meal that still tastes great. Whether served alone, as a side, or in a sandwich, these patties give versatility. They’re perfect for those evenings when you’re short on time but still want something homemade that’s both quick and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Canned Chicken Patties

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

A glass bowl of jalapeño popper chicken salad ingredients.
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad is a fast, flavorful dish that’s ready in minutes. It combines spicy jalapeños, cream cheese, chicken, and bacon. This salad serves a fresh and slightly spicy taste that’s perfect for a quick meal. It’s a great choice for those nights when you need something easy yet flavorful that comes together quickly. This salad is great for bringing a little excitement to your dinner routine without requiring much time or effort in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

Italian Sausage Soup

Creamy Italian sausage soup in a pot with a spoon and garnishes on the side.
Italian Sausage Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Italian Sausage Soup is a great option for busy weeknights when you want a comforting meal without spending much time cooking. This soup combines the hearty flavors of Italian sausage with the smooth richness of cream cheese and heavy cream, balanced with the tang of canned tomatoes. It comes together in a single pot within 30 minutes, making cleanup as easy as cooking. This recipe is a time-saver and a comforting choice that can lift your spirits on a chilly evening. Plus, it’s an easy introduction to cooking hearty meals at home if you’re not usually one to cook.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sausage Soup

Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Creamy ground beef skillet with cauliflower rice garnished with fresh herbs with a fork.
Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice is perfect for anyone looking for a substantial meal that’s easy and quick to prepare. With ground beef, cauliflower rice, cheddar cheese, and mushrooms all cooked together in a creamy sauce, this dish serves a rich flavor profile in just 30 minutes. This meal minimizes your effort and cleanup time by using only one skillet. It’s a stress-free recipe that gives a delicious dinner, perfect for those evenings when you’re too tired to tackle a complicated recipe but still want a filling meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers

A chicken bacon ranch popper skewered by a toothpick.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers are a great choice for easy cooking that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. These poppers are made with ground chicken mixed with bacon and sharp cheddar, seasoned with herbs like dill, garlic powder, and onion powder. They’re served with a homemade ranch seasoning that enhances their flavor. Ready in about an hour and freezer-friendly, these poppers are convenient for immediate meals and future ones, making them perfect for busy individuals looking to prep meals ahead of time.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers

Big Mac Salad

A person holding serving spoons in a bowl of Big Mac salad.
Big Mac Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Big Mac Salad brings the familiar flavors of a classic burger into an easy-to-make salad form. This dish combines bacon, ground beef, cheddar cheese, and pickles with chopped romaine lettuce, all tossed with a special sauce that captures the essence of the iconic Big Mac. It’s a quick recipe that can be thrown together in moments, making it perfect for a busy day when you crave something hearty but simple. This salad is a lighter alternative to fast food while still pleasing your burger cravings freshly and simply.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Salad

Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

Slow cooker split pea soup in a slow cooker with a spoon.
Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup is the epitome of set-it-and-forget-it cooking. This soup allows you to toss ingredients like split peas, ham, carrots, celery, and onion into your slow cooker and leave them to simmer throughout the day. The result is a thick, hearty soup with a slightly sweet flavor from the carrots and a rich depth from the ham. It’s a great choice for anyone seeking comfort food that requires minimal active preparation. Perfect for busy or cold days, this soup gives warmth and nutrition without requiring constant attention in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

Two bowls of sweet potato and red pepper soup with sour cream and parsley.
Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup is a straightforward and delicious choice for dinner, especially on cold nights. The soup simmers sweet potatoes and red peppers until tender, melding their flavors into a smooth, comforting dish. Ready in about an hour, this soup is simple to make and a practical option for a quick meal that requires little hands-on time. It’s a great recipe for those who find cooking daunting but still want to enjoy the benefits of a homemade, nutritious meal. This soup can help reduce stress on busy evenings and gives a soothing end to your day.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

Creamy Garlic Chicken

A white skillet of creamy garlic chicken garnished with herbs.
Creamy Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a quick and delicious dinner solution, cooking up in just 30 minutes. This one-pan meal features chicken breasts cooked in a creamy garlic sauce, making the chicken incredibly flavorful. The sauce is easy to make but adds a gourmet touch to the dish, making it feel like a treat. This recipe is perfect when you want to impress guests or treat yourself after a long day without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a straightforward yet impressive way to make a regular evening feel more special.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

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