Forget pizza! 21 dishes better than pizza

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Challenge your usual dinner choices with 21 dishes that dare to rival pizza. Each dish is crafted with unique flavors and ingredients, promising a culinary adventure that might just redefine your go-to meal preferences. Ideal for those evenings when you crave something different, these alternatives offer a range of tastes and textures that stand tall next to any pizza.

A plate with a Turkey à la King and salad on it.
Turkey à la King. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Pork Belly Burnt Ends

A plate of smoked pork belly burnt ends with tomatoes and pickles.
Pork Belly Burnt Ends. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re looking for a change from the usual, try Pork Belly Burnt Ends. This dish offers a crispy yet juicy experience that’s hard to resist, especially when craving something savory and indulgent. It’s perfect for those who love their meat with a rich flavor that lingers.
Get the Recipe: Pork Belly Burnt Ends

Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

A plate of chicken thighs.
Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Spice up your dinner routine with Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs. They come out perfectly crispy on the outside while staying succulent inside, all without the hassle of deep frying. Plus, the honey garlic sauce adds a sweet and tangy twist that’s a crowd pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Pasta e Fagioli Soup in 2 bowls with spoons.
Pasta e Fagioli Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a comforting meal, Pasta e Fagioli Soup might just be the ticket. This hearty soup blends pasta and beans in a savory broth, making it a filling option that warms you from the inside out. It’s a classic Italian favorite that never fails to satisfy.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops

Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops on a baby blue serving dish.
Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Turn to Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops for a no-fuss dinner. These pork chops simmer in the slow cooker, emerging tender and infused with flavor, paired perfectly with Swiss cheese that melts into a creamy delight. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it kind of meal that frees up your evening.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops

Cream of Caramelized Onion & Mushroom Soup

Two bowls of cream of caramelized onion & mushroom soup with garlic and thyme.
Cream of Caramelized Onion & Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Dive into the rich depths of Cream of Caramelized Onion & Mushroom Soup. Its deep, earthy flavors from the mushrooms and sweet undertones from the caramelized onions create a luxurious soup that’s both comforting and gourmet. A bowl of this soup might just become your new cozy night favorite.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Caramelized Onion & Mushroom Soup

Dutch oven Carnitas

Carnitas in a round black dish.
Dutch oven Carnitas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Nothing says fiesta quite like Dutch oven Carnitas. Cooked slowly until fall-apart tender, these carnitas are perfect for tacos, burritos, or even as a savory filling for sandwiches. Every bite is packed with flavor, making it a festive alternative to pizza night.
Get the Recipe: Dutch oven Carnitas

Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Green beans with pork on a black plate.
Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans are a testament to the power of slow cooking. With flavors that meld together over hours, these green beans come out perfectly seasoned and are a comforting side that complements any main dish. They’re so good, you might just forget about sides of fries or onion rings.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes

Wheat Berry Salad with Tomato & Tuna in a bowl.
Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Freshen up your meal choices with Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes. This salad is not only healthy but also packs a punch with its vibrant flavors and satisfying textures, making it a great alternative to heavier meals. It’s perfect for a light yet filling lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes

Baked Spanish Rice

Baked Spanish Rice in two black baking dishes.
Baked Spanish Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Baked Spanish Rice brings a touch of Spanish cuisine to your dining table. This aromatic dish is a simple yet flavorful side that pairs well with any protein, making it a versatile choice for any meal. Its robust flavors and hearty texture might just steal the show at your next gathering.
Get the Recipe: Baked Spanish Rice

Cuban Sandwich Casserole

A piece of Cuban sandwich casserole on a plate with potato chips.
Cuban Sandwich Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Switch up your casserole game with Cuban Sandwich Casserole. This dish layers the traditional components of a Cuban sandwich in a casserole form, creating a melty, meaty, and utterly delicious experience. It’s a fun twist on classic flavors that’s both satisfying and easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Cuban Sandwich Casserole

Beef Bourguignon

Beef bourguignon in a white bowl with thyme.
Beef Bourguignon. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Indulge in the rich, complex flavors of Beef Bourguignon. This French classic slow-cooks beef to perfection in a red wine sauce, accompanied by mushrooms and onions for added depth. It’s a sophisticated dish that brings the bistro right to your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bourguignon

Pickled Yellow Beans

Pickled yellow beans in a jar on a wooden table.
Pickled Yellow Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Add a tangy twist to your meals with Pickled Yellow Beans. These beans are a crispy, tangy treat that works great as a side or a fun addition to salads. Their bright flavor and satisfying crunch offer a refreshing change of pace from traditional sides.
Get the Recipe: Pickled Yellow Beans

Million Dollar Spaghetti

Spaghetti with meat and cheese in a baking dish
Million Dollar Spaghetti. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Million Dollar Spaghetti is sure to be a hit with anyone craving comfort food. This dish layers noodles, cheese, and sauce for a cheesy, creamy delight that goes beyond your standard pasta dish. It’s like lasagna and spaghetti had a delicious baby.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

A bowl of Mediterranean orzo salad on a black plate.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For something light and refreshing, Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp hits the spot. This dish combines orzo pasta with juicy shrimp and a medley of Mediterranean flavors for a salad that’s both nutritious and brimming with flavor. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a side at dinner.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

Smoked Cauliflower

Smoked cauliflower in a skillet on a wooden table.
Smoked Cauliflower. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Discover the delight of Smoked Cauliflower. This dish transforms the humble cauliflower into a smoky, savory treat that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side. It’s a unique take on vegetables that will leave you craving more.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Cauliflower

Turkey à la King

A plate with a Turkey à la King and salad on it.
Turkey à la King. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Reimagine comfort with Turkey à la King. This creamy dish combines turkey, peas, and pimientos in a rich sauce that’s perfect served over rice, pasta, or toast. It’s a comforting classic that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Turkey à la King

Southern Ham Salad

A bowl of Southern ham salad and croissants on a wooden table.
Southern Ham Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Offers a delicious blend of flavors and textures. This Southern Ham Salad mixes ham with fresh veggies and a tangy dressing, making it a perfect dish for any potluck or family dinner. It’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ham Salad

California Eggs Benedict

Eggs benedict with ham and avocado on an English muffin served on a black plate.
California Eggs Benedict. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

California Eggs Benedict brings a fresh twist to a breakfast classic. This version adds avocado and tomato for a Californian touch, making it a perfect choice for brunch or a decadent breakfast. It’s a dish that combines traditional flavors with a modern twist.
Get the Recipe: California Eggs Benedict

Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

A platter of sheet pan lemon-rosemary chicken with lemon slices, herbs, and garnished with cherry tomatoes.
Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a fuss-free dinner, try Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken. This one-pan wonder combines the bright flavors of lemon and rosemary for a dish that’s as easy to make as it is to clean up. It’s the perfect solution for a busy weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

Garlic Braised Beef Short Ribs

Braised Beef Short Ribs with gravy and mashed potatoes.
Garlic Braised Beef Short Ribs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Garlic Braised Beef Short Ribs are a treat for the senses. Slow-cooked to perfection, these ribs are both tender and packed with flavor, thanks to a generous amount of garlic. They’re a hearty dish that’s sure to satisfy any meat lover.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Braised Beef Short Ribs

Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef

Four tacos with Mexican molida on a wooden table.
Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Spice up your dinner routine with Carne Molida. This Mexican-style ground beef is versatile and flavorful, perfect for tacos, burritos, or as a hearty topping for nachos. It’s a simple yet delicious way to bring some heat to your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef

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