These 19 dinners are always on my family’s wish list

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Think about those dishes that are so well-loved, you could probably whip them up in your sleep. These 19 recipes are the heavy hitters of the dinner table, the ones everyone looks forward to. So prepare for some easy wins and plenty of happy faces around your table. It’s about to get seriously delicious up in here, and leftovers? People might just be hoping for them.

Air Fryer Salmon Bites and a salad on a plate with a fork.
Air Fryer Salmon Bites. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole

Chicken casserole with baked cheese inside a white dish.
Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

When family gatherings call for a comforting meal, Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole stands out as a top choice. This dish is often requested for its creamy texture and heartwarming flavors that bring everyone to the table. It’s an effortless way to satisfy a crowd or simply make a weeknight dinner special. Families enjoy the warmth and joy such a dish brings, making it a frequent request for gatherings and cozy nights alike.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole

Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Beef bulgogi in a bowl with rice and cucumbers.
Beef Bulgogi Bowls. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Beef Bulgogi Bowls bring the vibrant flavors of Korean cuisine right to your dining table. This dish is favored for its ability to combine simple elements into a meal that is full of flavor. It’s a popular pick for its quick assembly and the engaging experience it offers while eating. It provides a cultural culinary journey that is both enjoyable and memorable.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Enchilada Meatballs

Cheesy mexican meatballs in a skillet.
Enchilada Meatballs. Photo credit: Litlle House Big Alaska.

Spice up your dinner routine with Enchilada Meatballs, a dish that infuses a beloved flavor into a unique form. This recipe is a creative twist on traditional favorites, blending familiar elements with a new presentation. It’s often the highlight of the meal, sparking conversation and delight among guests. This dish is a regular on the menu for its appealing taste and fun aspect.
Get the Recipe: Enchilada Meatballs

Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole

Cabbage beef casserole inside cast iron.
Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole is a staple dish that combines heartiness with a touch of simplicity. This casserole is regularly requested for its filling nature and comforting taste, making it a perfect fit for family dinners. It’s a practical choice for feeding a crowd, offering a fulfilling meal that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole

Baked Potato

Baked potatoes on a serving dish with sour cream and fresh parsley.
Baked Potato. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

This dish is cherished for the comfort it brings and the ease with which it can be customized to individual tastes. Baked Potato might seem simple, but its versatility makes it a frequent feature on dinner tables. Whether as a side or the main attraction, it’s a foundational element that complements any meal. It provides a straightforward solution to dinner that everyone can look forward to.
Get the Recipe: Baked Potato

Slow Cooker Beef Stew

A picture of beef stew with mushrooms carrots and thyme.
Slow Cooker Beef Stew. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Slow Cooker Beef Stew is the epitome of set-it-and-forget-it cooking, ideal for busy families. This dish is a favorite for its deep, concentrated flavors that develop over hours of slow cooking. It’s the perfect meal to come home to after a long day, offering a warm welcome with its rich aroma. It ensures a comforting meal that is always welcomed on chilly evenings or when a hearty dinner is needed.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Honey Habanero Tacos

Image shows three honey habanero tacos with corn shells sitting on a wooden board.
Honey Habanero Tacos. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

This dish is frequently requested for its perfect balance of sweet and spicy notes. Honey Habanero Tacos bring a dynamic flavor that lights up our dinner table, sparking excitement with every serving. Family gatherings often see this dish as a centerpiece, where it stands out for its bold flavors. It not only satisfies but also sparks conversations, making our meals memorable and lively.
Get the Recipe: Honey Habanero Tacos

Vegan Pasta Puttanesca

Bowl of Pasta Puttanesca.
Vegan Pasta Puttanesca. Photo credit: Food Plus Words.

Vegan Pasta Puttanesca is a regular on our weekly menu, known for its robust and hearty character that pleases everyone at the table. This dish provides a comforting experience that doesn’t compromise on flavor, despite being plant-based. It’s a fantastic option for family members who are health-conscious but still crave a dish with depth.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pasta Puttanesca

Slow Cooker Barbacoa

Barbacoa tacos on a tray topped with peppers and onions.
Slow Cooker Barbacoa. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

With minimal effort and maximum flavor, Slow Cooker Barbacoa is a standout dish that has made it to our family’s favorite list. Its slow-cooked richness is perfect for a lazy weekend meal or a comforting weekday dinner. It’s often the highlight of our family gatherings, where its warmth and heartiness bring everyone together around the dining table.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Barbacoa

Easy Vegan Falafel Bowl

Easy Vegan Falafel Bowl. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

An absolute must-try for those who love a good mix of nutrition and flavor is Easy Vegan Falafel Bowl. This dish is celebrated in our home for its vibrant, wholesome ingredients that offer a burst of freshness. It’s a go-to for quick dinners that require little prep but deliver substantial satisfaction. Each bowl is a popular choice for both the health-conscious and those looking for a quick, fulfilling meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Falafel Bowl

Whole Roasted Lemon Pepper Chicken

A roasted chicken in a cast iron skillet.
Whole Roasted Lemon Pepper Chicken. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Family dinners are transformed into an event with Whole Roasted Lemon Pepper Chicken taking center stage. This dish is beloved for its crispy skin and juicy interior, which make it irresistibly appealing. It’s a frequent request for Sunday dinners, where it promises a comforting end to the weekend. The aroma fills the house, setting the stage for a meal that is as visually impressive as it is delicious.
Get the Recipe: Whole Roasted Lemon Pepper Chicken

Tortilla Pizza

A hand sprinkling fresh basil on top of a tortilla pizza.
Tortilla Pizza. Photo credit: The Honour System.

Tortilla Pizza is the ultimate quick-fix dinner that brings everyone to the table with smiles. This dish is a creative twist on a classic favorite, making it especially popular with the kids. It’s a fun meal that encourages everyone to customize their toppings, adding a personal touch to dinner time. It has cemented its place as a practical yet flavor-packed dinner option in our household.
Get the Recipe: Tortilla Pizza

Chinese Boneless Spare Ribs

Homemade Chinese spare ribs with broccoli and rice on a white plate.
Chinese Boneless Spare Ribs. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This dish is a top request for its pleasing aroma that fills the home, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Chinese Boneless Spare Ribs often steal the show at dinner with their rich flavor and appealing presentation. It’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, providing a taste that keeps everyone reaching for more.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Boneless Spare Ribs

Furikake Salmon

Two fillets of furikake salmon on a white plate.
Furikake Salmon. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Furikake Salmon offers an enjoyable burst of flavor that makes it a favored choice for both weeknights and special occasions. This dish stands out for its flavorful coating that transforms a simple meal into a culinary treat. It’s quick to prepare, ensuring that a gourmet meal doesn’t always require extensive time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Furikake Salmon

Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Shrimp skewers on a white plate with lemon wedges.
Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Bring the flavors of the Mediterranean to your backyard with Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp, a dish celebrated for its lively flavor profile. This recipe is perfect for outdoor dining, offering a light yet fulfilling meal that’s as suitable for a casual family meal as it is for entertaining guests. It’s often chosen for its colorful presentation and quick preparation.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Korean Beef Bowl

A top-down shot of Korean Beef Bowl with chopsticks and garlic.
Korean Beef Bowl. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Korean Beef Bowl is a favorite for its savory, bold flavors that pack a punch in every bite. This dish is a standout choice for anyone looking to spice up their meal routine with something quick and deeply flavorful. It’s especially popular among families for its adaptability to various palates, ensuring that everyone at the table is happy.
Get the Recipe: Korean Beef Bowl

Chinese Black Pepper Chicken

Bowl of black pepper chicken with chop sticks.
Chinese Black Pepper Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

When craving something with a bit of kick, Chinese Black Pepper Chicken is the go-to dish. This recipe is revered for its bold pepper flavor that melds beautifully with the tender chicken. It’s a standout dish that brings a spice-forward approach to dinner, appealing to those who prefer their meals with a bit more heat.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Black Pepper Chicken

Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta

Broccoli Rabe and Sausage in a serving bowl with tomatoes in the background.
Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta is the perfect blend of hearty and wholesome, making it a recurring request on family dinner menus. This dish captures the essence of rustic Italian cooking with a straightforward yet flavorful approach. It’s a filling meal that satisfies without needing fancy ingredients or complicated steps, making it ideal for a quick dinner.
Get the Recipe: Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta

Air Fryer Salmon Bites

Air Fryer Salmon Bites and a salad on a plate with a fork.
Air Fryer Salmon Bites. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

Suitable for gatherings or just a simple family meal, these bites are sure to be a hit with all ages. Air Fryer Salmon Bites are a modern twist on traditional seafood that offers both convenience and taste. This dish is a favorite for its crispy texture and quick cooking time, allowing you to enjoy a healthy meal without the long wait.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Salmon Bites

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