For those exhausted days when the couch is calling your name, 17 effortless dinners are here to rescue you. These dishes are easy on both your energy and your wallet, perfect for nights when cooking feels impossible. With minimal prep and maximum taste, these meals make dinner a breeze. Let these simple dinners do the work, and you’ll wonder why you didn’t try them sooner.
![Chicken egg foo young on top of rice on a white plate.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/chicken-egg-foo-young.jpg)
Camarones a la Diabla
![Shrimp in red chile sauce on a white plate with lime wedges and a fork in the background.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/camarones-diabla-la-horiz-1-1.jpg)
Camarones a la Diabla packs a punch with its bold flavors and is surprisingly simple to whip up. It’s the kind of dish that seems like you spent hours in the kitchen, but in reality, it’s quite quick to prepare. A perfect choice for those nights when you want something spicy and fulfilling without a lot of effort. Serve it up with some rice or tortillas, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Camarones a la Diabla
Hoisin Beef
![A white bowl with rice and hoisin ground beef and chopsticks on the side.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/hoisin-beef-horiz-1.jpg)
When you’re craving something Asian-inspired but don’t want to spend ages cooking, Hoisin Beef is your go-to. It combines tender slices of beef with the sweet and tangy taste of hoisin sauce for a dish that’s full of flavor. It’s as simple as it gets, making it an ideal pick for a quick weeknight dinner. Pair it with some steamed rice or noodles, and dinner is served.
Get the Recipe: Hoisin Beef
Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake
![A serving spoon serving of creamy spinach chicken bake.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Creamy-Spinach-Chicken-Bake.jpg)
Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake is a comforting meal that will make you forget about your long day. This dish is a breeze to prepare, and with chicken, spinach, and a creamy sauce, it’s both nutritious and indulgent. It’s a fantastic way to get a serving of vegetables while also enjoying a creamy and delicious dinner. Just pop it in the oven, and soon you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake
Beef Bulgogi Bowls
![Beef bulgogi in a bowl with rice and cucumbers.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/beef-bulgogi-msn2.jpg)
For a night when you’re feeling something a little different, Beef Bulgogi Bowls are a fun and easy option. This Korean favorite brings together marinated beef, vegetables, and rice in a way that’s both simple and packed with flavor. It’s a straightforward dish that doesn’t skimp on taste, making it a great choice for any night of the week. Plus, it’s customizable with your favorite veggies or whatever you have on hand.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bulgogi Bowls
Camarones al Mojo de Ajo
![Shrimp stuffed into soft corn tortillas with lime wedges on the side.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/camarones-al-mojo.jpg)
Camarones al Mojo de Ajo is a fantastic alternative when you’re looking for something lighter but still packed with flavor. Garlic lovers will rejoice in this dish that celebrates the simple pleasures of shrimp cooked with plenty of garlic. It’s not only easy to make but also cooks up quickly, making it an ideal candidate for a last-minute dinner. Serve it with some fresh bread or over a bed of pasta for a fulfilling meal.
Get the Recipe: Camarones al Mojo de Ajo
Creamy Tuscan Chicken
![Creamy Tuscan chicken in a skillet.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Creamy-Tuscan-Chicken-rotated.jpg)
This Creamy Tuscan Chicken brings a piece of Italy into your kitchen without any fuss. This dish combines chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach in a rich creamy sauce for a meal that feels upscale without the complicated steps. It’s wonderful for when you need something a bit special but still easy and quick to make. Serve over pasta or rice to complete this comforting and hearty dish.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken
Singapore Noodles
![Rice noodles with meat and veggies on a white plate.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Singapore-Noodles-1600-1.jpg)
Singapore Noodles is the answer when you’re in the mood for something exotic yet uncomplicated. This dish is vibrant, packed with a mix of curry-flavored rice noodles, shrimp, pork, and crisp vegetables. It’s quick to cook and offers a wonderful opportunity to use whatever veggies you have. Every bite offers a taste of Singapore, making it an exciting option for a weeknight adventure.
Get the Recipe: Singapore Noodles
Pizza Carbonara
![A close-up of a pizza slice topped with a runny egg yolk, grated cheese, bacon bits, and black pepper.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/pizza-carbonara-msn.jpg)
This Pizza Carbonara might just become your newest favorite way to do pizza night. It takes the classic flavors of carbonara pasta – crispy pancetta, eggs, and cheese – and puts them on top of a pizza. It’s an unconventional twist on two beloved dishes, easy to make, and absolutely rewarding to eat. Perfect for those evenings when you can’t decide between pizza and pasta.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Carbonara
Szechuan Shrimp
![Low angle shot of szechuan shrimp in a wok.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Szechuan-Shrimp1600-2.jpg)
If you’re in the mood for something with a bit of a kick, Szechuan Shrimp will not disappoint. This dish is all about bringing that classic Szechuan flavor to your dinner table with minimal effort. With just the right balance of spicy and tangy, it’s a seafood option that’s sure to be a hit. Plus, it cooks up so fast you won’t believe dinner is ready this quickly.
Get the Recipe: Szechuan Shrimp
Crispy Feta Fried Eggs
![A fried egg with crispy feta cheese, avocado, and a tortilla, garnished with chopped green onions and red pepper flakes, served on a white plate.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/feta-fried-eggs-msn.jpg)
For a breakfast-for-dinner kind of night, Crispy Feta Fried Eggs offers up a unique and delicious twist. This dish combines the crispy edges of fried eggs with the rich, tangy taste of feta cheese, creating a simple yet exciting meal. It’s incredibly straightforward to make, ensuring you can get dinner on the table in no time. And it pairs wonderfully with some toasted bread or fresh veggies.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Feta Fried Eggs
Salmon and Asparagus Quiche
![Salmon and asparagus quiche on a metal plate with parchment paper.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/salmon-quiche-msn.jpg)
Switch up your dinner routine with a Salmon and Asparagus Quiche that brings elegance and ease to your table. This dish is a wonderful amalgamation of flaky crust, creamy egg filling, fresh asparagus, and perfectly cooked salmon. It’s a meal that looks like you put in more effort than you actually did, making it perfect for those days you want to treat yourself but keep things simple. Ideal for a light dinner or brunch.
Get the Recipe: Salmon and Asparagus Quiche
Stir Fried Hokkien Noodles
![Stir-fried noodles with shrimp and beef in a pan with chopsticks.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/stir-fried-hokkien-noodles-msn2.jpg)
Stir Fried Hokkien Noodles are your go-to for a flavorful, fuss-free meal that’s ready in no time. This dish is all about the chewy texture of the noodles mixed with a variety of vegetables and a sauce that’s full of umami. It’s a straightforward stir-fry that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Throw in your favorite protein to make it even more substantial.
Get the Recipe: Stir Fried Hokkien Noodles
Lamb Kofta Kebabs
![Lamb kofta kebabs on a wooden board with fresh herbs and vegetables.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Lamb-Kofta-Kebabs-1600-2.jpg)
If you’re looking for something a bit more on the exotic side without too much hassle, Lamb Kofta Kebabs might just hit the spot. These are flavorful minced lamb skewers that are incredibly simple to prepare and cook. They’re great for grilling outdoors or broiling in the oven, providing a versatile and enjoyable cooking experience. Paired with some flatbreads and yogurt sauce, it’s a meal that promises simplicity and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Kofta Kebabs
Avocado Toast with Grated Egg
![Avocado toast on a wooden cutting board.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/avocado-egg-toast-msn.jpg)
For a quick, nutritious start to your day or an easy, light dinner, Avocado Toast with Grated Egg is hard to beat. This dish takes the beloved classic avocado toast and adds a protein boost with grated egg on top. It’s so easy to put together, offering a fulfilling meal without much work. Plus, it’s customizable with additional toppings like hot sauce or herbs to suit your taste.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Toast with Grated Egg
Tom Kha Gai
![A bowl of soup garnished with cilantro, lime, and chili slices, with a person taking a spoonful.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/tom-ka-gai-msn.jpg)
When you’re craving something warm and comforting, Tom Kha Gai offers a delicious solution without the need for extensive cooking. This Thai coconut soup balances the richness of coconut milk with the tang of lime juice and the heat from chillies. It’s a soup that’s both comforting and refreshing, perfect for any season. And it’s a great way to bring a taste of Thailand to your table with minimum fuss.
Get the Recipe: Tom Kha Gai
Chicken Egg Foo Young
![Chicken egg foo young on top of rice on a white plate.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/chicken-egg-foo-young.jpg)
Chicken Egg Foo Young is an excellent option for a quick, fulfilling meal that’s a bit different from your typical dinner fare. This Chinese-inspired omelet is packed with chicken and vegetables, making it both hearty and healthy. It’s surprisingly simple to cook, ensuring you won’t have to spend too much time in the kitchen. A great choice for a busy night when you still want a meal that’s a bit more interesting.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Egg Foo Young
Spicy Ma Po Tofu with Ground Pork
![A bowl of rice topped with stir-fried tofu cubes and minced vegetables, garnished with green onions. Chopsticks rest on top.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/ma-po-tofu-msn.jpg)
This is a bold and fiery dish that proves you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen for a flavorful meal. This classic Sichuan recipe combines soft tofu with ground pork in a spicy sauce for an addictive, flavorful dish. Spicy Ma Po Tofu with Ground Pork is perfect for those who love a bit of heat with their dinner, and it comes together so quickly. Served with a side of rice, it’s a hearty and spicy dish that’s sure to become a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Ma Po Tofu with Ground Pork