Dinnertime during the week can feel like a race against the clock. Between work, school activities, and everything else going on, finding the time and energy to cook a delicious meal can seem impossible. We’ve compiled 17 easy and flavorful recipes your family is sure to love that are designed for busy weeknights, with minimal prep time using ingredients you likely already have on hand.
Semi-homemade Chicken Enchiladas
Short on time but craving Mexican food? No problem! Use rotisserie chicken to whip up these cheesy enchiladas in just a few steps. This recipe is a great way to enjoy delicious enchiladas without spending hours in the kitchen – perfect for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Semi-homemade Chicken Enchiladas
Poached Orange Salmon
This easy salmon recipe is packed with flavor from the oranges and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Yet, it’s fancy enough for a special occasion. This recipe is a great way to elevate a simple protein with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress last-minute guests.
Get the Recipe: Poached Orange Salmon
Kefta Kebabs
Forget the same old burgers! Kefta kebabs are a flavorful and easy-to-make weeknight dinner option. These juicy kebabs are packed with flavor and sure to be a winner. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and delicious meal that’s sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Kefta Kebabs
Chicken Tortellini Soup
Don’t have a lot of time to cook? No worries! Delight in a bowl of comforting chicken tortellini soup. This soul-soothing dish comes together even faster with leftover rotisserie chicken. Tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and flavorful broth combine for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Perfect for when you need a quick and cozy weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortellini Soup
Creamy Pea Pasta
Satisfy your cravings with Creamy Pea Pasta, a creamy and flavorful dish that will leave you wanting more. This meatless Monday favorite is quick and easy to make, perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies without sacrificing taste or time.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pea Pasta
Pesto Salmon
Delight in the vibrant flavors of pesto-infused salmon, a healthy and flavorful dinner option ready in no time. The herbal notes of the pesto perfectly complement the richness of the salmon, creating a balanced and nutritious meal. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something healthy and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Salmon
Caprese Panini
This quick panini is your answer to a fast and flavorful lunch or light dinner. Melted cheese, fresh tomatoes, and basil come together in minutes for a delicious and easy Italian classic. No fancy ingredients or long prep time needed – this panini is perfect for busy weekdays.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Panini
Cheesy Stuffed Shells
Dive into a cheesy and comforting delight with Cheesy Stuffed Shells. Filled with savory goodness, they are the perfect meatless Monday meal. This recipe is a great way to enjoy a satisfying and flavorful dinner without spending hours in the kitchen – ideal for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Stuffed Shells
Italian Meatball Soup
This classic Italian soup is the ultimate comfort food for weeknight dinners. Hearty meatballs simmered in a savory broth make it a satisfying choice for a quick weeknight dinner. It’s a warm and flavorful hug in a bowl, perfect for when you need a quick and comforting meal.
Get the Recipe: Italian Meatball Soup
Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl
Craving takeout but short on time? This recipe is your weeknight savior. Chicken, veggies, and savory seasonings are cooked together in one pan for a flavorful and fuss-free meal that satisfies your cravings in a flash. No need to order takeout – this delicious dish is ready in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl
Weeknight Lasagna Roll Ups
Tired of boring weeknight dinners? These cheesy lasagna roll-ups come together in just 30 minutes. Packed with flavor and melty cheese, they’re a guaranteed hit the whole family will love. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and delicious meal.
Get the Recipe: Weeknight Lasagna Roll Ups
Shortcut Chicken Salad
Made without any cooking, this chicken salad is a lifesaver on a busy day. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner. Enjoy it on a bed of crisp greens or piled high on a whole-wheat roll for a light and satisfying meal. No need to wait around for chicken to cook – this recipe is ready in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Shortcut Chicken Salad
Cashew Chicken
Craving a flavorful and satisfying dinner? Look no further than Cashew Chicken. Juicy chicken is bathed in a delicious sauce, while crunchy cashews add a delightful textural contrast. This popular dish is sure to become a weeknight favorite for its ease of preparation and explosion of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Cashew Chicken
Mexican Skillet Quinoa
This one-pot Mexican Skillet Quinoa is a naturally gluten-free recipe loaded with protein and flavor. Packed with quinoa, beans, salsa, corn, and more, it’s a complete and satisfying meal that’s ready in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and easy dinner that everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Skillet Quinoa
Cacio e Pepe
Looking for a fancy-feeling yet incredibly simple meal? Look no further than Cacio e Pepe. This classic dish takes about 15 minutes to make, and cheesy carbs don’t get any better. It’s perfect for those nights when you want a quick and impressive weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe
Crescent Roll Bagel Dogs
Fun, easy, and perfect for lunchboxes or after-school snacks, these bagel dogs are a surefire crowd-pleaser. They’re a delicious twist on the classic hot dog, perfect for a quick and easy meal. Skip the boring lunches – these fun and flavorful bagel dogs are ready in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Crescent Roll Bagel Dogs
Instant Pot Lentil Soup
Short on time but big on flavor? Instant Pot Lentil Soup comes to the rescue. This hearty and healthy dinner option is packed with nutrients and flavor, making it a convenient choice for busy days. It’s a delicious and satisfying meal that doesn’t require hours of cooking.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Lentil Soup