When you’re absolutely exhausted, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen, which is why these 17 easy dinner ideas are a lifesaver. They’re the perfect solution for those evenings when you’re too tired to think about cooking but still want a great meal on the table. With minimal effort and simple ingredients, these recipes will help you whip up a good dinner in no time.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a great pick if you are feeling wiped out but still gotta eat. You only need chicken, garlic, and butter, and boom, it’s done in 20 minutes with just one pan. It’s perfect for when you want to try something new without spending much time in the kitchen. Just throw it together with some rice or veggies, and you’ve got a great meal that’s not the same old, same old. Toss in some parmesan and herbs before serving for extra flavor. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making them great for lunch the next day. Serve on a bed of light pasta or zoodles for a fuller meal.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Shake and Bake Pork Chops
This Shake and Bake Pork Chops recipe features an effortless way to achieve flavorful, crispy pork chops without frying — all in 25 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe is a family favorite that is extra easy to make and a great choice for beginner cooks or anyone who just wants to get a good meal on the table fast.
Get the Recipe: Shake and Bake Pork Chops
Spinach Chicken Bake
For those nights when you’re too tired to stress over dinner, Spinach Chicken Bake has got your back. It only takes 30 minutes to get it on the table with stuff like chicken, spinach, and cheese. It’s a cool way to shake up your dinner routine without any extra trouble. Simple, quick, and you end up with something a bit different. Try using different cheeses or throwing in some mushrooms for a new flavor. This dish freezes beautifully, so feel free to make a double batch and save some for another night. Serve with a side salad or some roasted veggies for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Chicken Bake
Chicken Tortellini Soup
Chicken Tortellini Soup is here for when you ever have one of those days where even thinking about dinner is too much. Just toss everything into one pot and let it cook for 40 minutes. It’s hearty, easy, and perfect for filling you up on those exhausting nights. Plus, cleaning up is a breeze. Feel free to swap out the tortellini for ravioli or add some spinach for an extra veggie punch. Soup’s great for storing; it’ll last in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for a couple of months. A crusty piece of bread makes the perfect companion to this comforting soup.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortellini Soup
Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole
If craving something comforting but don’t want to put in the effort, Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole is what you need. It’s like getting all the good stuff from stuffed peppers, but easier. Mix everything in a pan, cook for 45 minutes, and you’re done. Great for a chill dinner at home without the extra work. For a different take, try using quinoa instead of rice, or mix in some black beans for added protein. Keep this casserole in the fridge, and it’ll taste just as good for up to 4 days.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole
Fajita Baked Chicken
Fajita Baked Chicken is your friend when you want to spice up dinner without making a big deal out of it. In 30 minutes, you get this amazing dish out of the oven and ready to eat. It’s got chicken, cream cheese, sweet peppers, and mozzarella—all the good stuff with minimal cleanup. Perfect for when you want to relax more and cook less. Switch it up by using different veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for an even heartier dish. This dish can be stored in the fridge for 3 days, so you can look forward to leftovers. Wrap it up in tortillas or serve over rice for an easy, filling meal.
Get the Recipe: Fajita Baked Chicken
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
Need a filling meal fast? Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole mixes frozen veggies with a cheesy, creamy sauce and bacon. It’s quick, easy, and a smart way to enjoy more veggies. Freeze any leftovers for another night. This casserole pairs well with a crispy green salad or your favorite grilled meat for a complete meal. When you’re dragging, this dish is a comforting way to eat your greens without the effort.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice
This Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice is your answer to a complete and easy meal in 30 minutes. It’s a cinch to whip up and keeps well in the fridge. Try it with a dollop of sour cream on top and some chopped fresh herbs for extra flavor. On nights you can barely muster the energy to cook, this skillet meal comes to the rescue with minimal cleanup. A dash of spices like cumin or paprika can add a hearty flavor to the dish.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice
Cabbage and Sausage
This Cabbage and Sausage recipe is a one-pan recipe that can be made in less than 30 minutes and yields a delicious and filling dish. Many people have grown up eating this comforting dish. It features an underappreciated vegetable that is so versatile and takes on flavor so well: cabbage! Paired with sausage, it’s a great meal that’s easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage
Hungarian Mushroom Soup
Hungarian Mushroom Soup is your cozy go-to, ready in 45 minutes. It’s a one-pot meal with mushrooms in a creamy broth that’s simple and rich in flavor. It keeps well in the fridge for a few days, or freeze the leftovers for later. Serve this comforting soup with a slice of sourdough bread for dipping. It’s the perfect cozy hug for those nights when cooking is the last thing on your mind. For a variation, try adding a splash of white wine or some thyme for an extra layer of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Hungarian Mushroom Soup
Creamy Italian Sausage Soup
For a hearty, cozy dinner, try Creamy Italian Sausage Soup. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s a rich mix of sausage, cream cheese, tomatoes, and cream. It’s perfect for warming up and stores well in the fridge. Serve with crusty bread to dip into the creamy broth. It’s the equivalent of curling up under a blanket during nights when you’re too tired to think. Consider adding spinach or kale for a green version and added nutrients.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Italian Sausage Soup
Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce is a simple yet impressive 30-minute meal. It’s great for when you’re short on time but want something special. Serve it over pasta or with a side of mashed potatoes to make it even more filling. This dish is your shortcut to a fancy dinner on nights when you’re too tired to go all out. Try incorporating a bit of mustard or lemon juice into the sauce for a tangy taste. For storage, this dish can be refrigerated and enjoyed within 3-4 days, ensuring the sauce retains its creamy texture and the chicken stays moist. Reheat gently to preserve the dish’s quality.
Get the Recipe: Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup
Mix up your mealtime with Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup, ready in about an hour. It’s comforting, healthy, and stores well. With ingredients like sweet potatoes, red peppers, and your choice of broth, this soup is not only nutritious but also a great way to use up any leftover veggies in your fridge. Enjoy it with a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort food pairing. It’s a soothing end to a draining day, requiring little effort for a lot of flavors. Roasting the sweet potatoes and red peppers before adding them to the soup can enhance their natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup
Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach
For a quick, flavorful dinner, try Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach. Key ingredients include fresh shrimp, spinach, garlic, and olive oil, it’s amazing with pasta or rice and brings a Mediterranean flair to your table in no time. Perfect for a light yet filling meal. This dish feels like a mini-vacation on a plate, best for nights when cooking feels like a chore. Adding a dash of chili flakes can give it a spicy kick for those who like a bit of heat.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach
Canned Chicken Patties
Canned Chicken Patties are the ultimate convenience. These patties come together quickly and are a great way to create a delicious meal with minimal effort. They’re a snap to prepare and pair well with any side. Serve with a quick coleslaw or your favorite steamed veggies for a complete meal. This is the go-to meal for nights when even turning on the stove feels like too much. Experiment with different herbs and spices in the patties to find your favorite flavor combination.
Get the Recipe: Canned Chicken Patties
Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach
Cheesy Beef Casserole is your go-to for a quick meal. It’s easy to make and pairs beef, cauliflower rice, spinach, and cheese for a hearty dinner. Serve with garlic bread for a filling meal. It’s the perfect solution for feeding everyone on nights you’d rather not cook. Mix in some roasted red peppers or sautéed mushrooms for an extra layer of flavor and texture. This casserole is especially great for exhausted evenings, as it’s both stress-free to prepare and comforting, turning a potentially stressful dinner time into a relaxed, fun family gathering.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach
Shawarma Kebabs
Shawarma Kebabs make for an easy, delicious dinner. Just marinate, skewer, and bake. Ingredients such as your choice of meat, shawarma spices, and fresh veggies for the salad or couscous side make this dish both versatile and delicious. They’re perfect with a side of couscous or a simple cucumber salad for a refreshing meal. For those days when you’re too worn out, these kebabs make dinner feel special with hardly any effort. Try serving with a dollop of tzatziki sauce or a sprinkle of feta cheese for an authentic Middle Eastern experience.
Get the Recipe: Shawarma Kebabs