17 Meaty weekend recipes you’ll keep coming back to

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When the weekend hits, so does the craving for meals that pack a serious punch without the fuss. From recipes that simmer down to deep flavors to ones that hit you with instant boldness, these 17 dishes don’t play around. They’ll have you coming back for more like a favorite rerun—except this is a show you’re happy to binge every weekend. So, here’s to weekend meals that keep life delicious and never disappoint.

Low angle shot of crispy beef on a plate.
Crispy Beef. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Air Fryer Pork Belly

Stack of air fryer pork belly strips in hoisin glaze.
Air Fryer Pork Belly. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Who doesn’t love a weekend indulgence that’s both quick and rewarding? That’s where Air Fryer Pork Belly steps into the limelight, offering a crunch that resonates with every bite. Without needing to spend all day in the kitchen, you get a result that makes any meal feel like a celebration. It’s perfect for those seeking something special with minimal fuss.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Belly

Hoisin Beef

A white bowl with rice and hoisin ground beef and chopsticks on the side.
Hoisin Beef. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you’re after a dish that packs a punch of flavor, look no further. Hoisin Beef brings together rich tastes in a way that’s hard to forget. It’s a go-to for when you want a meal that impresses without requiring hours of preparation. Ideal for dinners that call for something out of the ordinary, it’s a dish that keeps people coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Hoisin Beef

Gochujang Chicken

Gochujang chicken on a platter with fresh herbs.
Gochujang Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For those who like a little fire in their meal, Gochujang Chicken does not disappoint. It combines the warmth of spices with mouthwatering chicken in a manner that’s both bold and comforting. Perfect for a weekend feast, it lends itself to lively dinners with friends and family. It’s undeniably a centerpiece dish that speaks volumes with its taste and presentation.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Chicken

Instant Pot Pork Lo Mein

A bowl of stir-fried noodles with beef, carrots, red bell peppers, and greens. Hand using chopsticks to pick up noodles.
Instant Pot Pork Lo Mein. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

Embrace the magic of meals that taste like they simmered all day but took just minutes to make. Instant Pot Pork Lo Mein answers the call for a fuss-free yet utterly fulfilling dinner. It’s for anyone wanting to bring a touch of takeout home, without the extra wait. This dish proves that convenience and taste can go hand in hand, making it a weekend warrior’s dream.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Pork Lo Mein

Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken

Fried salt and pepper chicken in a black bowl lined with parchment paper.
Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken. Photo credit: all Ways Delicious.

Imagine biting into perfectly seasoned chicken that’s both juicy inside and fantastically crisp outside. Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken makes this dream a reality. It’s a standout dish that marries simplicity with the kind of flavor you crave on a laid-back weekend evening. Not only is it straightforward to make, but it also promises to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken

Sesame Noodles with Beef

A bowl of ribbon noodles with sliced beef, topped with chopped green onions, and a pair of chopsticks.
Sesame Noodles with Beef. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

On days when only comfort food will do, Sesame Noodles with Beef is the answer. This dish delivers a hearty and flavorsome experience that satisfies deep-down. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re just in need of a food hug, it has you covered. Beyond being utterly comforting, it’s also quick to whip up, proving that comfort food doesn’t need to be time-consuming.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Noodles with Beef

Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Bites

Bowl of jalapeno popper bites.
Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Bites. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For those moments when you crave something with a bit of a kick, Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Bites come to the rescue. They’re bite-sized, making them perfect for sharing, yet they deliver a bold flavor that keeps you reaching for more. Ideal for game day, movie night, or any casual get-together, they’re a novel way to spice up your weekend snacking game.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Bites

Spicy Garlic Beef Noodles

A fork lifting a portion of cooked noodles with vegetables from a pan, with a bowl of chopped green onions in the background.
Spicy Garlic Beef Noodles. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

This dish is both quick and easy to prepare, making it the perfect choice for when you want to enjoy a delicious meal that packs a bit of heat and a wealth of flavor, all served in a single bowl. Spicy Garlic Beef Noodles are not just filling but also bursting with bold and vibrant flavors. The tender beef, when combined with a rich, garlicky sauce, creates a combination that makes every bite irresistible.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Garlic Beef Noodles

Instant Pot Country Ribs

Country pork ribs on a plate next to an instant pot.
Instant Pot Country Ribs. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

There’s something about ribs that just speaks to the soul, and Instant Pot Country Ribs make achieving that soulful taste easier than ever. They emerge from the pot tender and rich in flavor, ready to be devoured by eager diners. It’s the kind of dish that turns a simple weekend meal into a feast, without the hassle of traditional rib cooking methods. Perfect for meat lovers looking for a hands-off approach.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Country Ribs

Green Chili Chicken Soup

Overhead shot of a pot of the soup with two bowls of the soup and garnishes.
Green Chili Chicken Soup. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When the weather turns or you’re in need of a little comfort, Green Chili Chicken Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s packed with flavor, offering a little heat and a lot of comforts. Made with ease, it’s a dish that soothes as much as it satisfies, inviting you to slow down and savor each spoonful. This soup is a testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together to create something wonderful.
Get the Recipe: Green Chili Chicken Soup

Grilled Flank Steak with Chile Butter

Sliced flank steak with chili butter.
Grilled Flank Steak with Chile Butter. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Upgrade your weekend grilling game with Grilled Flank Steak with Chile Butter. This dish brings a new level of flavor to the table, combining the smoky allure of grilled steak with the irresistible richness of chile butter. It’s a surefire hit for any barbecue or outdoor dining experience, perfectly blending simplicity with a touch of elegance. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress guests with your grilling prowess.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Flank Steak with Chile Butter

Harissa Chicken

Harissa chicken in a baking pan with a plate of it over rice with yogurt and herbs on the side.
Harissa Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For those who love their chicken with a side of tang, Harissa Chicken is a must-try. This dish introduces bold flavors in every bite, marrying the chicken with spices in a way that’s hard to resist. It’s ideal for when you want a meal that breaks the monotony of the week with a spice-infused bang. Moreover, it’s a testament to how a few key ingredients can transform a simple dish into a memorable meal.
Get the Recipe: Harissa Chicken

Pork Belly Banh Mi

3 pork belly banh mi on a white platter with limes and pickled veg in the background.
Pork Belly Banh Mi. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Weekend lunches beg for something that breaks from the norm, and Pork Belly Banh Mi fits the bill perfectly. It’s a sandwich that brings together a variety of tastes and textures, creating an experience that’s both refreshing and deeply fulfilling. Perfect for a midday meal that energizes, it’s a flavorful nod to the beloved Vietnamese classic. This dish proves that lunchtime can be both adventurous and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Pork Belly Banh Mi

Instant Pot Chicken Adobo

Overhead shot of a plate of chicken adobo with rice and scallions on the side.
Instant Pot Chicken Adobo. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Bite into a dish that showcases the comforts of Filipino cuisine with Instant Pot Chicken Adobo. It offers a mouthwatering combination of savory, slightly sweet, and tangy flavors that meld together perfectly in each bite. Not only does it demonstrate the versatility of chicken, but it also highlights how a few ingredients can create a deeply flavorful experience. It’s a comforting weekend dish that’s sure to please any palate.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Adobo

Spicy Miso Ramen

A bowl of ramen with karaage chicken.
Spicy Miso Ramen. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When cravings for something warm and rich in flavor hit, Spicy Miso Ramen is here to satisfy. This dish takes the classic comfort of ramen and upgrades it with a kick of spice and depth of miso flavor. It’s the perfect pick for a cozy night in, offering a bowlful of comfort that’s as fulfilling as it is delicious. Whether you’re a ramen aficionado or looking to explore new flavors, this dish won’t disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Miso Ramen

Crispy Beef

Low angle shot of crispy beef on a plate.
Crispy Beef. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you’re all about that crunch with a side of savory, Crispy Beef will not let you down. This dish promises textures and flavors that harmonize in a way that’s utterly irresistible. Perfect for when you want something a bit different from the usual fare, it turns a simple meal into a memorable feast. With its ability to wow anyone who tries it, this recipe is a weekend highlight waiting to happen.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Beef

Pork Fried Rice

Pork fried rice in a blue and white striped bowl.
Pork Fried Rice. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Say goodbye to the idea that fried rice is just a side dish with Pork Fried Rice. This meal stands tall as a hearty, flavor-packed centerpiece that’s both fulfilling and easy to whip up. It’s the perfect answer to “What’s for dinner?” on a busy weekend, offering the goodness of a home-cooked meal without the complexity. Ideal for using up leftovers and turning them into something incredibly delicious, it’s a practical yet tasty choice.
Get the Recipe: Pork Fried Rice

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