27 dinners easy enough for lazy evenings

Photo of author

| Published:

After a long day, no one wants to tackle a complicated dish with endless steps or ingredients that are hard to find. These recipes are here to make things easier, with simple steps that don’t sacrifice flavor — so you can relax and enjoy dinner without any added stress.

Grilled chicken pieces with a glossy glaze, garnished with chopped herbs, served on a beige plate.
Grilled Hot Honey Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

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.

Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is like a cozy dinner without the stress. You just layer tater tots, shredded chicken, and corn, then top it with cheese and green onions. Pop it in the oven, and in about 55 minutes, you’ve got a comforting meal on the table. It’s great for when you want something hearty but need a break from cooking. Perfect for those laid-back evenings when you want to enjoy a home-cooked meal without a lot of work. The simple ingredients make it feel like a homemade treat that’s easy to pull together.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

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.

If you’re looking for a quick, no-stress dinner, Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner is for you. Just toss sausages, zucchini, broccoli, and bell peppers on a baking sheet and roast. In 30 minutes, you get a balanced meal without much effort. Perfect for those nights when you want something nutritious but don’t have the energy for lots of prep or cleanup. The veggies add a nice crunch, and you only need one pan, so cleanup is a breeze. It’s a great way to enjoy a hearty dinner with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Reuben Bowls

A bowl of coleslaw with creamy dressing, garnished with green onions, served in a ceramic bowl with a fork.
Reuben Bowls. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Reuben Bowls gives you all the flavors of the classic sandwich but without the extra steps. In just 30 minutes, you’ve got sauerkraut, corned beef, Swiss cheese, and coleslaw ready to go. It’s a great choice when you’re craving something hearty but want to keep things simple. Perfect for those nights when you need a change from the usual but don’t want to spend too long in the kitchen. This easy bowl lets you enjoy all the elements you love without the mess or hassle.
Get the Recipe: Reuben Bowls

Tuna Macaroni Salad

Close-up of a creamy pasta salad sprinkled with paprika and garnished with chopped herbs in a white bowl.
Tuna Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Tuna Macaroni Salad is your go-to when you need something quick and easy. Mix tuna, elbow macaroni, mustard, and mayo, and you have a meal that comes together fast. It’s light and refreshing, great for when you don’t want anything heavy. Plus, it stays good in the fridge, so you can make it ahead. Perfect for those evenings when cooking just isn’t on the agenda. The mustard adds a nice tang, and the mayo gives it a creamy texture. It’s perfect for meal prep since it holds up well for a couple of days, making your life simpler.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Macaroni Salad

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

A plate of garlic butter chicken bites.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are packed with flavor and come together in just 20 minutes. You get crispy bites, pan-fried, then tossed in garlic butter, making it a perfect meal when you want something a bit special but don’t have much time. It’s a great option for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without the effort. The garlic butter adds a rich touch, and you can pair this with a simple side to round out your dinner. It’s an easy way to enjoy a flavorful meal without much cooking.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

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

Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole brings comfort without any hassle. Just mix noodles, canned tuna, and peas, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and bake. In 55 minutes, you have a creamy and crunchy dinner that’s filling and straightforward. Great for nights when you want something hearty but not time-consuming. The tuna and peas add some protein and veggies, making this more than just pasta. It’s a practical way to serve a great meal with just a few ingredients and a short cooking time.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

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 a quick way to enjoy a comforting meal. Just layer frozen ravioli with marinara sauce and cheese, then bake until it’s bubbling. It’s perfect for those evenings when you need something filling but don’t want to do much cooking. The marinara and cheese melt into the ravioli, making it feel like you spent more time on dinner than you actually did. It’s an easy and hearty meal that comes together with hardly any effort. Just pop it in the oven and let it cook while you take a break.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ravioli

Grilled Hot Honey Chicken

Grilled chicken pieces with a glossy glaze, garnished with chopped herbs, served on a beige plate.
Grilled Hot Honey Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Grilled Hot Honey Chicken gives you a great meal without the hassle. Marinate the chicken, grill it, and let that honey glaze work magic. It’s ready in 45 minutes. The honey glaze adds a sticky sweetness that’s hard to beat. Serve it with a simple side, and you’ve got a meal that feels special without too much effort. This dish is a great way to get that grill flavor in a snap, and it doesn’t leave you with a sink full of dishes. Perfect for those nights when you want something good but quick.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Hot Honey Chicken

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

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

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole is a lifesaver for those lazy evenings when you need a comforting and simple meal. Loaded with broccoli, cauliflower, bacon, and cheese, it packs in veggies in a way that’s easy to enjoy. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is all about tossing everything into a dish and letting the oven do the work. This is great for getting dinner on the table without a lot of steps or cleanup. It’s filling and hits that spot every time.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Big Mac Salad

A person holding serving spoons in a bowl of Big Mac salad.
Big Mac Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Big Mac Salad has you covered if you’re in the mood for a burger but want to keep things lighter. It has all the classic flavors with ground beef, cheese, pickles, and that special sauce, but it’s served over fresh lettuce. This salad comes together quickly, making it perfect for those nights when you want something familiar without the heaviness. It’s a quick way to enjoy a meal that feels like takeout but is actually a bit more balanced and served in only one bowl.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Salad

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

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

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole brings together ground beef, rice, and bell peppers in a comforting and straightforward way. Ready in about 45 minutes, it’s great for nights when you want something hearty without standing over the stove. The bell peppers add a nice sweetness that pairs well with the beef and rice. It’s a simple mix-and-bake dish that makes for an easy dinner option. It’s great for when you need a break but still want to serve something that feels homemade.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Spinach Chicken Bake

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

Spinach Chicken Bake is your go-to for a quick and comforting meal. With just chicken, spinach, and cream cheese, this dish comes together in about 30 minutes. It’s perfect when you want something that feels a bit more special without spending ages in the kitchen. The spinach adds a bit of green to the plate without adding extra steps. This bake is great for those nights when you need to quickly get dinner on the table. Serve it with a simple side, and you’ve got a complete meal that takes care of itself in the oven.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Chicken Bake

Shake and Bake Pork Chops

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

Shake and Bake Pork Chops are perfect when you want a dinner that feels like a treat but is really easy to make in just 25 minutes. Coat the pork chops in mayo and breadcrumbs, shake them up, and bake. They come out with a nice crunch, giving you that crispy coating everyone loves. It’s great for those evenings when you want something a little different without putting in much effort. You don’t need a bunch of ingredients or steps — just a simple process that delivers great results.
Get the Recipe: Shake and Bake Pork Chops

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 here to make your evenings easier. Ground beef, cauliflower rice, spinach, and cheese come together for a meal that’s ready in about 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something filling without spending too much time. The cauliflower rice and spinach will sneak in some veggies without any extra work. It’s a comforting dish that’s easy to throw together, giving you a bit of balance with minimal prep.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

Cabbage and Sausage

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

Cabbage and Sausage is great when you’re short on time and energy but still want a meal that fills you up. Just chop up cabbage and sausage, cook them together in one pan, and add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a little extra flavor. It’s ready in 25 minutes, making it perfect for those nights when you need something easy and hearty. Pair it with some bread if you like, or enjoy it as is. This dish makes sure you get a wholesome dinner without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage

Italian Sausage Soup

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

Italian Sausage Soup brings together sausage, tomatoes, and onions, with a touch of cream and Parmesan to make it cozy. It takes just about 30 minutes, so it’s perfect for when you want something comforting without much work. The sausage has a bold flavor, while the cream makes it extra special. Serve it with some bread, or have it on its own for a hearty meal that feels like a hug after a long day. It’s a simple way to make your evening a bit more relaxed.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sausage Soup

Crock Pot Taco Soup

A crock pot of taco soup.
Crock Pot Taco Soup. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Crock Pot Taco Soup makes dinner effortless. Just toss ground beef, tomatoes, and taco spices into your slow cooker in the morning, and it’s ready to go by dinner time. Perfect for when you’re busy but still want a great meal waiting for you. This soup is hearty and full of flavor with almost zero effort on your part. It’s great when you need something comforting and filling without spending hours in the kitchen. A perfect dish for those lazy evenings when cooking seems like a chore.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Taco Soup

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

A glass bowl of jalapeño popper chicken salad ingredients.
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad gives you a little kick with hardly any prep. Mix up jalapeños, bacon, cheese, and chicken for a filling meal. The combination of chicken, bacon, and spicy roasted jalapeños balanced by the cool creamy dressing serves a variety of bold flavors in one dish. It’s great for when you’re looking for something different but quick. You can eat it on its own or stuff it into a wrap if you’re in the mood for something a bit more. It’s perfect for those nights when you want a delicious and hearty dinner salad option.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

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.

Tuna Egg Salad keeps things easy and stress-free. You can whip it up in just 25 minutes with simple ingredients like eggs, tuna, yogurt, and some crunchy veggies. It’s got a nice mix of protein and texture, making it perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. You can enjoy it on its own, spread it on some bread, or wrap it in lettuce leaves for a light meal. It’s great for evenings when you need something fast that still feels like a real meal. No stress, just mix and enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Egg Salad

White Bean Soup

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

White Bean Soup is about keeping dinner simple and comforting. With just white beans, veggies, and herbs, you can have a meal ready in about 40 minutes. It’s light yet filling, great for those evenings when you want something hearty but not too heavy. The creamy broth is soothing and easy on the stomach, making it a perfect choice when you need a gentle meal. Garnish each bowl with croutons and grated Parmesan cheese, then serve. It’s an easy way to have a relaxing evening.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

A fresh Caesar salad with chicken, croutons, tomatoes, and dressing, served in a large white bowl with a fork.
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad makes dinner feel a bit more special without the extra work. In just 25 minutes, you can combine pasta, chicken, and all the classic Caesar salad flavors for a fresh and filling meal. The pasta adds some bite, while the chicken makes sure it’s hearty enough to keep you going. You can serve it on its own or pair it with some garlic bread if you’re up for it. It’s a simple, easy way to get a meal on the table that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

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.

This Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice is perfect when you need a hearty meal without much effort. It comes together in just 30 minutes using ground beef, cauliflower rice, mushrooms, and cheese. One pan is all you need, making cleanup super easy. The creamy sauce brings everything together for a comforting meal that’s filling but not heavy. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without any hassle. On those nights when you’re looking for something quick and filling, this dish is here to help.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Creamy Garlic Chicken

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

Creamy Garlic Chicken is your go-to when you need something easy and comforting. With just chicken breasts, garlic, cream, and Parmesan, you get a meal that’s ready in 30 minutes. It’s all done in one skillet, so there is less mess to deal with later. The chicken stays tender, and the creamy garlic sauce adds a rich flavor without requiring a lot of effort. Pair it with some rice or veggies on the side, and you’ve got a full meal. This recipe serves a nice dinner minus the time commitment in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Chicken Tortellini Soup

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

Chicken Tortellini Soup is just what you need for those evenings when energy is running low. Ready in about 40 minutes, it brings together chicken, cheese tortellini, fresh veggies, and broth into a cozy bowl of comfort. You can throw everything into one pot and let it cook while you take a break. The light broth and cheesy tortellini make this soup feel special without a lot of work. It’s great for when you want something comforting and filling but don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortellini Soup

Broccoli Casserole

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

This Broccoli Casserole is perfect for when you want dinner to be simple and comforting. It’s ready in under an hour with broccoli, a creamy cheese sauce, and a crispy topping. Just pop it in the oven and let it bake while you relax. The cheese sauce gives it a cozy, comforting feel, and the broccoli adds a nice bit of green to your meal. It’s an easy way to have a homemade dish that’s ready without much effort — a great choice when you want something wholesome and easy to put together.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole

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.

Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup is a lifesaver on busy days. Toss split peas, ham, carrots, and celery into the slow cooker and let it work its magic. By dinnertime, you’ll have a thick, hearty soup ready to go. There’s no need to stir or watch the pot, making it a simple, hands-off meal. The soup turns out rich and flavorful, with the ham adding a nice touch. It’s perfect for days when you need dinner to be ready with no extra effort. Just set it up and come back to a comforting bowl of soup.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

Canned Chicken Patties

Chicken patties with broccoli on a plate.
Canned Chicken Patties. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Canned Chicken Patties are here for those nights when you need a quick, filling meal. Mix together canned chicken, eggs, Parmesan, and ground sunflower seed meal, fry them up, and you’re done in 20 minutes. They’re crispy on the outside and tender inside, making them a great option when you want something more than just a salad. You can pair them with veggies or have them on their own. It’s a simple recipe that fits perfectly into a busy evening, giving you a nice meal without much hassle.
Get the Recipe: Canned Chicken Patties

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.