30 easy dinners to get you through this month in one piece

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Easy dinners are the key to surviving a month without losing your mind. When life gets hectic, and you can’t remember the last time you saw the bottom of your laundry basket, having a stash of no-brainer meals can be a lifesaver. These recipes are great for those nights when you just can’t even yet still need to feed the hungry masses. They’re perfect for keeping you sane and your family fed without resorting to cereal for dinner… again.

Two shake and bake pork chops on a plate.
Shake and Bake Pork Chops. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Baked Ravioli

A close-up of a cheesy baked ravioli garnished with herbs, with a fork lifting a portion to show the melted cheese.
Baked Ravioli. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Baked Ravioli is about as easy as dinner gets. Just take some frozen ravioli, layer it with marinara sauce and cheese, and pop it into the oven. While it bakes, you can kick back or deal with whatever else is on your plate — literally and figuratively. You’ll have a cheesy, comforting dish ready in about an hour, with nearly zero hands-on time. It’s the perfect solution for those nights when even ordering takeout feels like too much effort. Plus, everyone loves good cheesy pasta. It’s a straightforward, foolproof way to feed yourself or your family without stress.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ravioli

Broccoli Casserole

A casserole dish with broccoli and cheese in it.
Broccoli Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Broccoli Casserole might be your new best friend for an easy dinner. It’s got fresh broccoli with a creamy sauce made from mushroom soup, eggs, sour cream or Greek yogurt, and cheese. Layer the ingredients properly in the baking dish, top with shredded cheese and a cracker mixture, and bake until golden and bubbly. It’s ready in no time and keeps well, which means you can enjoy the leftovers — if there are any! It’s perfect for those days when you’re trying to convince everyone that veggies can be both easy and good.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole

Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

A casserole dish filled with pasta and peas.
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

If you’re juggling too much and cooking seems like another chore, this Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole is your dinner hero. Combine egg noodles, canned tuna, peas, and cheddar for a creamy, cheesy dish that comes together without a hassle. Pop it in the oven, let it do its thing, and in under an hour, you’ve got a hearty meal that hits the spot. Perfect for those days when you want to cook without cooking, this casserole keeps your dinner routine simple and stress-free. It is great for dodging kitchen drama during a packed month.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

Crock Pot Taco Soup

Two bowls of Crock Pot taco soup with cheese and sour cream.
Crock Pot Taco Soup. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

It’s been a marathon of a day, and dinner is the last hurdle. That’s when Crock Pot Taco Soup comes into play. Toss ground beef, onions, cream cheese, and a sprinkle of spices into your crock pot and let it work its magic. It’s hearty and has a bit of a kick with that chili powder. Cumin makes it smell like you’ve been cooking all day even though you haven’t. Minimal prep, maximum flavor — what’s not to love? It’s a brilliant plan for keeping weeknight meals stress-free and downright good. It’s a no-brainer for easy dinners that help you breeze through the busiest days.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Taco Soup

Tuna Egg Salad

A close-up of a bowl of tuna egg salad mixed with celery, onions, and dill, topped with freshly ground black pepper, with a spoon placed on the side.
Tuna Egg Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Tuna Egg Salad is super easy and ready in just 25 minutes. Perfect for a quick dinner or prepping lunch ahead of time, it helps make your month a bit smoother. Just hard-boil some eggs, mash them up, and mix with canned albacore tuna, Greek yogurt, celery, red onion, pickles, and seasonings. It’s a creamy, protein-packed salad that’s great for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Egg Salad

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Stuffed bell pepper casserole in a pan with a wooden spoon.
Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

The Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole is a straightforward dish that delivers a big flavor with minimal effort. This recipe tastes traditional stuffed peppers and simplifies it into a one-dish casserole ready to serve in just 45 minutes. It features ground beef, bell peppers, onions, and rice. It combines all the elements of a delicious meal in one pot. It’s the perfect choice for a hearty dinner that impresses guests without any stress. Not only does this casserole cover all the nutritional bases with protein, vegetables, and grains, but it also gives the comfort of home-cooked goodness.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

A casserole dish filled with tater tots, shredded chicken, and corn, topped with melted cheese and green onions.
Chicken Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

You can have fun with dinner! The Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is a playful dish that’s serious about flavor. It’s packed with shredded chicken, creamy soup, spices, and mixed veggies, all topped with cheesy tater tots. Bake it for less than an hour, and you’ve got a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s the kind of meal that cheers you up just by being on the menu, making it a perfect pick for those nights when you need something both easy and uplifting.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

Shake and Bake Pork Chops

Shake and bake pork chops on a baking sheet.
Shake and Bake Pork Chops. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Shake and Bake Pork Chops are game changers for those nights when even setting the table feels like too much. Coat the chops with mayonnaise, toss them in seasoned breadcrumbs, and let the oven do the rest. In 25 minutes, you’ll have crispy pork chops on the outside and tender on the inside — almost like magic. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a great dinner without much effort. Serve them with mashed potatoes or a side of steamed veggies to keep dinner meltdowns at bay.
Get the Recipe: Shake and Bake Pork Chops

Sausage Curry

Sausage curry with rice in a bowl with a fork.
Sausage Curry. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Switch things up without any hassle with this Sausage Curry. Quick to make and full of flavor, it brings together sausages and veggies in a curry sauce that’s just the right amount of spicy. Ready in under an hour, it’s great with rice or naan, making dinner feel special without extra effort. This dish is a smart choice for adding some excitement to your dinner lineup, helping you get through the month without dinner feeling like a chore.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Curry

Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Creamy ground beef skillet with cauliflower rice with a wooden spoon.
Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

The Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice is a real-time-saver. This dish combines ground beef, cauliflower rice, mushrooms, and cheddar, all simmering harmoniously to create a comforting meal. It’s a perfect pick for those nights when cooking feels like the last thing you want to do after a long day. Ready in just 30 minutes and using only one pan, it’s a lifesaver for cleanup time. The hardest part might be not eating it straight out of the skillet. This is how you power through a busy month with less time cooking and more time chilling.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Twice baked potato casserole with bacon and green onions.
Twice Baked Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sometimes, you need something hearty without the hassle; that’s where Twice Baked Potato Casserole comes in. It packs all the good stuff — bacon, potatoes, sour cream, and cheddar — into one dish, eliminating the need to stuff skins or juggle multiple pots. Bake it all in one dish and call it a night. It’s the kind of meal perfect for those evenings when you want comfort food but don’t want to put in too much effort. Plus, it’s great for getting everyone to the table with a smile, and no coaxing is needed. This dish makes “easy dinners” a reality, not just a hopeful thought.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Spinach Chicken Bake

A serving spoon serving of creamy spinach chicken bake.
Spinach Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Spinach Chicken Bake is your go-to for hectic evenings. In just 30 minutes, you get chicken thighs marinated in spices and avocado oil, layered with cream cheese, spinach, and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella. It’s a one-dish wonder that lets you relax while it bakes. When you need dinner on the table fast but still want it to feel special, this bake has your back. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a simple salad, and you’re all set.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Chicken Bake

Creamy Dijon Chicken

A pan of creamy dijon chicken with herbs and bacon.
Creamy Dijon Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Quick dinners have a little flair. Creamy Dijon Chicken makes your evening meal feel more special without locking you in the kitchen. It features juicy chicken thighs, creamy Dijon mustard sauce, spinach, and bacon in one pan in about 30 minutes. It’s like the universe saying, ‘Hey, you can have a fancy dinner and relax tonight.’ Perfect for winding down after a day that felt like a week, this dish keeps things light on effort but big on flavor. It’s a winner for anyone looking to keep dinner prep simple and stress-free.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Dijon Chicken

Fried Cabbage with Bacon

A pan full of bacon and cabbage with a wooden spoon.
Fried Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Fried Cabbage with Bacon is the kind of dish that asks very little of you. It’s bacon and cabbage, fried up until they’re just right, and it’s ready before you know it. You’re looking at about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s simple, quick, and fills the plate without draining your energy. Great for those days when you’re just not feeling the kitchen vibe but still want a meal that feels like a hug. Keeping dinner duties light and your evenings your own is a no-nonsense choice.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

Slow cooker split pea soup in a slow cooker with a spoon.
Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

If you dread you’re the dinner dance after a long day, let the Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup take the lead. Just throw split peas, ham, and some veggies into the slow cooker and let it do its thing while you do yours. Choose between a quicker four to six-hour cook time or let the flavors deepen over eight to ten hours. Either way, you end up with a hearty soup ready when you are. It’s like having dinner on autopilot, perfect for freezing and even better for those evenings when you can’t face the kitchen. Because let’s face it, some days you want to feel like dinner just happened by magic.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Loaded broccoli cauliflower casserole in a baking dish garnished with green onions.
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

For those who think cooking is a chore, the Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole might change your mind. It’s simple and features steaming the broccoli and cauliflower, stirring in a cheesy sauce, and baking it for 30 minutes. You’ve got a filling dish with minimal effort. Prep it ahead, and dinner is practically done before you start. It’s a stress-buster in a baking dish, designed to make your life easier and keep your belly full, making it a no-brainer for a packed month. It’s like your dinner is on cruise control.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Chicken pot pie soup in a white bowl with a spoon.
Chicken Pot Pie Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Pot Pie Soup brings all the homely feel without the hassle. Think of it as the laid-back cousin of the traditional pot pie. It packs chicken, carrots, celery, and potatoes into a creamy broth, all seasoned to perfection. It’s ready in an hour and is delicious when served with some crackers or a slice of crusty bread.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Cabbage and Sausage

A pan of cabbage and sausage garnished with fresh herbs.
Cabbage and Sausage. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Cabbage and Sausage is the quick fix when staring at the fridge and wondering what’s for dinner. It takes only 25 minutes, and it’s all done in one pan. This dish mixes sweet, crunchy cabbage with rich sausages, lightly seasoned and finished with a dash of apple cider vinegar. It’s straightforward and stress-free, perfect when your schedule is packed. This meal is your secret dish for making it through the month without losing your mind or appetite.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage

Chicken Tortellini Soup

A bowl of chicken tortellini soup with vegetables and herbs.
Chicken Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Tortellini Soup is the comforting, quick meal you need on a chilly evening. With a prep and cook time of only 40 minutes, this one-pot wonder combines shredded chicken, cheese tortellini, and a medley of vegetables in a flavorful broth. It’s fast, it’s hearty, and it’s a breeze to clean up. On some nights, cooking is more exhausting than your day. This soup is here to soothe the pain with a promise of a no-stress, good dinner. It’s like a little peace treaty for your weeknight meals.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortellini Soup

Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Sausage and veggies sheet pan dinner with a spoon.
Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Think of Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner as the lazy person’s guide to a good meal. Spread your sausages and a colorful array of veggies on a sheet pan, pop it in the oven, and that’s it — you’ve got dinner sorted in about 30 minutes. It’s simple, it’s delicious, and it’s got everything you need in one pan. This kind of no-stress dinner saves the day when you’re too tired to even think about cooking. Keep this one up your sleeve for those days you want a great meal with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

Two bowls of sweet potato and red pepper soup with sour cream and parsley.
Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup is perfect for easy dinners this month. You cook sweet potatoes and red peppers with cumin and paprika, then blend with an immersion blender until smooth. It’s ready in under an hour and packed with vitamins. This soup keeps you healthy without any stress. It’s great for busy days when you need a quick, nutritious meal that doesn’t require much effort. Plus, it’s a nice change from the usual dinner routine, giving you a break from the same old, same old.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

A person is holding a wooden spoon full of chicken in a sauce.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are your go-to when time isn’t on your side. These bite-sized chunks are pan-fried until golden and then drenched in a garlic butter sauce. Ready in about 20 minutes, they’re not just quick; they’re a crowd-pleaser too. Whether you’re feeding the family or need a simple meal after a day of back-to-back meetings, these chicken bites have your back. They make sure you spend more time eating and less time cooking. You can have a great dinner on the table fast.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Creamy Garlic Chicken

A white skillet of creamy garlic chicken garnished with herbs.
Creamy Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a go-to if you’ve ever needed a quick dinner without the drama. It’s chicken seared to perfection and simmered in a creamy sauce of garlic and Parmesan. The garlic punches it, and the Parmesan adds that cheesy goodness we crave after a long day. Ready in a jiffy, this dish is your ally on those evenings when your to-do list just won’t quit. And let’s face it, washing fewer pots at the night’s end is the dream, right? This recipe keeps dinner simple and sane — exactly what you need to coast through the month.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Chicken with creamy mushroom sauce in a pan.
Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Let’s talk about whipping something quick and great — Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce. It features tender chicken thighs cozy with a creamy mushroom and sun-dried tomato sauce. It’s rich, hearty, and has that comforting vibe you need after battling endless meetings or errands. Done in 30 minutes, so you’re sitting down to eat sooner rather than later. Meals like these make you feel like you’ve got your life together, even if it’s just dinner that’s sorted. And when the month is hectic, this dish is like hitting the easy button for dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Creamy Italian sausage soup in a pot with a spoon and garnishes on the side.
Creamy Italian Sausage Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Italian Sausage Soup is your friend on a chilly evening when you want comfort without the effort. It’s packed with Italian sausage, smoothed with cream cheese and heavy cream, and topped off with shredded Parmesan cheese. It’s like a hug in a bowl, ready in 30 minutes. That’s all you need to pull this together. It’s filling and soothing, and with just one pot to clean, it’s a weeknight hero. This soup is a game-changer for anyone looking to cut down on kitchen time without cutting corners on taste. Keep this recipe handy to make your dinner routine feel like a breeze all month.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

A skillet of creamy sun dried tomato chicken with a wooden spoon.
Sun Dried Tomato Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sun Dried Tomato Chicken is the meal that makes you look like you tried harder than you did. In one pan and about 30 minutes, boneless chicken thighs simmered in a creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes bring a bright, tangy contrast to the rich cream. It’s straightforward but feels a bit fancy without all the effort. Perfect for those nights when you want a decent meal but can’t bear the thought of doing much. It’s quick, good, and exactly what you need to spice up the dinner routine without spicing up your workload.
Get the Recipe: Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

White Bean Soup

A bowl of white bean soup with carrots and croutons.
White Bean Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

White Bean Soup is great when you need a quick and nutritious dinner. This one-pot wonder mixes white beans and veggies in a flavorful broth and cooked for 40 minutes. Creamy from pureed beans and flavored with garlic, thyme, and rosemary, it’s simple and good. Add fresh spinach, Parmesan, and a splash of lemon for an extra layer of flavor. It’s an effortless way to pack nutrients and keep everyone full and happy with minimal kitchen time. Perfect for those nights when you just can’t be bothered.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup

Keto Zuppa Toscana

A bowl of keto zuppa Toscana with a spoon in it.
Keto Zuppa Toscana. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Keto Zuppa Toscana is a comforting choice for hectic days. Modeled after Olive Garden’s favorite, this version uses radishes instead of potatoes and combines sausage, kale, and a creamy broth. It’s perfect for easy dinners that don’t compromise on taste. It’s great for those looking to stay on track with their diet without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish is a staple in our easy dinners lineup this month. It’s like a little bowl of sanity during a chaotic month.
Get the Recipe: Keto Zuppa Toscana

Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

Cheesy beef casserole with cauliflower rice and spinach being spooned out of a baking dish.
Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach is the ultimate comfort food for a busy month. You cook cauliflower rice in the microwave, brown beef and onions in a skillet, wilt spinach, then mix with sour cream and top with cheddar. Bake until bubbly for a quick, veggie-packed meal. It’s a great way to get more veggies into your meals with minimal effort. This casserole is worth its weight in cheddar. It’s perfect for those days when you need something easy and filling.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

A serving of Philly cheese steak casserole being pulled up from a pan.
Philly Cheese Steak Casserole. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Philly Cheese Steak Casserole makes weeknight dinners a breeze. You combine sirloin steak, bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, and provolone cheese, and it’s ready in less than an hour. Perfect for hearty meals without the chaos, it’s a great way to keep dinner easy and delicious. This dish is perfect for hearty meals that don’t require all evening to prepare. After all, there’s no need for more chaos when you can have cheesy goodness instead. It’s like a hug in a casserole dish.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

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