17 quick dinners you’ll wish you’d discovered sooner

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Quick dinners are a lifesaver on busy evenings, and this set of recipes proves just how simple and satisfying they can be. Perfect for when you need something that comes together fast but still feels like a real meal, these dishes are a great addition to any rotation. Once you try them, you’ll find yourself wondering how you managed without them.

A skillet filled with stir-fried noodles and pieces of chicken being mixed with chopsticks.
Kung Pao Chicken Noodles. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

Camarones a la Diabla

Shrimp in red chile sauce on a white plate with lime wedges and a fork in the background.
Camarones a la Diabla. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you’re in the mood for something with a bit of a kick, Camarones a la Diabla should be on your weeknight dinner radar. This dish is surprisingly easy to whip up, making it a fantastic option when time is tight but you’re craving flavors that pack a punch. It blends the right amount of heat with succulent shrimp for a meal that is as fulfilling as it is quick.
Get the Recipe: Camarones a la Diabla

Beef Bulgogi Bowls

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

For those evenings when you’re craving something hearty, Beef Bulgogi Bowls might just be the game changer you need. This dish brings together savory flavors in a way that is both uncomplicated and fast, providing a delicious solution to the age-old question of what to have for dinner. It’s a comforting choice that combines ease with the kind of warm, inviting flavors that are perfect for when the air gets cooler.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Bombay Sandwiches

Bombay Sandwiches layered with potato, tomato, cucumbers, and an herb chutney sauce.
Bombay Sandwiches. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When you’re searching for a dinner option that’s both straightforward and a touch exotic, Bombay Sandwiches offers a vibrant choice. This recipe comes together with minimal fuss, offering a taste of something different without the need to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s the kind of meal that is both light and fulfilling, ideal for those nights when you want to eat well but keep things simple.
Get the Recipe: Bombay Sandwiches

Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake

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

Nothing says comfort food quite like a Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake. This dish is a warming, inviting option that’s perfect for cooler evenings when all you want is something hearty and reassuring. It manages to be both nourishing and straightforward, making it an excellent pick for nights when time is of the essence but you’re still looking to sit down to a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake

Camarones al Mojo de Ajo

Shrimp stuffed into soft corn tortillas with lime wedges on the side.
Camarones al Mojo de Ajo. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For seafood lovers, Camarones al Mojo de Ajo promises a dinner filled with flavors that feel like a mini coastal getaway. This recipe is an effortless way to bring a touch of the sea to your dining table, offering a light but immensely flavorful meal option. It’s ideal for those days when you’re after something a little lighter but don’t want to compromise on taste or spend hours cooking.
Get the Recipe: Camarones al Mojo de Ajo

Spicy Dan Dan Noodles with Ground Pork

A fork lifts a tantalizing forkful of noodles mixed with sausage and vegetables from a black skillet. The dish appears to be creamy and richly seasoned, reminiscent of dan dan noodles, with visible bits of meat and greens intertwined with the noodles.
Spicy Dan Dan Noodles with Ground Pork. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

If you’re a fan of dishes that bring a bit of heat, Spicy Dan Dan Noodles with Ground Pork could be your next dinner winner. This meal is not only quick to prepare but also leaves you with a deeply fulfilling blend of spicy and savory notes. It’s the perfect choice for an adventurous eater looking to explore bold flavors on a busy weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Dan Dan Noodles with Ground Pork

Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps

Closeup of a chicken shawarma wrap.
Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

On nights when you crave something a bit different, Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps can be a quick and flavorful escape. This recipe leverages the convenience of an air fryer to deliver mouthwatering results with minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for a busy evening. It’s a fun and flavorful way to break from the mundane, bringing a touch of Middle Eastern flair to your dinner table without any hassle.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps

Miso Glazed Salmon

Miso glazed salmon on a plate with rice and spinach.
Miso Glazed Salmon. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When you’re aiming for a dinner that’s both simple to make and packed with nuanced flavors, Miso Glazed Salmon stands out as a stellar option. This dish is a straightforward way to enjoy a rich, umami-packed meal that feels gourmet without any of the fuss. It’s particularly fitting for those evenings when you want something quick yet distinctly sophisticated.
Get the Recipe: Miso Glazed Salmon

Chicken Hot and Sour Soup

Two bowls of hot and sour soup.
Chicken Hot and Sour Soup. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

As the temperature drops, a bowl of Chicken Hot and Sour Soup can be the perfect remedy. This quick-cooking soup offers a vibrant blend of flavors that can warm you up from the inside, making it a prime pick for chilly evenings. It’s an excellent way to enjoy a comforting, soothing meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Hot and Sour Soup

Pork Fried Rice

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

For a quick, fulfilling meal that hits all the right notes, Pork Fried Rice is a dependable choice. This dish offers a delicious way to end a busy day, combining ease of preparation with a hearty and comforting outcome. It’s versatile enough to please a variety of palates and perfect for using up leftovers and minimizing waste.
Get the Recipe: Pork Fried Rice

Lamb Kofta Kebabs

Lamb kofta kebabs on a wooden board with  fresh herbs and vegetables.
Lamb Kofta Kebabs. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Inviting a touch of the exotic to your dinner table can be as simple as preparing Lamb Kofta Kebabs. This recipe is a no-fuss approach to enjoying rich, spiced flavors in a format that’s as fun to eat as it is to cook. It’s a particularly good choice for those seeking a meal that combines the joy of grilling with the convenience of a quick and easy recipe.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Kofta Kebabs

Air Fryer Fish Tacos

Fish tacos on a small baking sheet with limes.
Air Fryer Fish Tacos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Air Fryer Fish Tacos offers a light, delicious option that’s remarkably quick to put together. This dish is perfect for times when you’re looking for a meal that’s both straightforward and fulfilling, without the heavy feeling of fried foods. Utilizing an air fryer ensures crispy, delicious fish every time, making this recipe a healthier take on a beloved classic. It’s a great way to enjoy a casual, stress-free dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Fish Tacos

Thai Fried Rice

Overhead shot of Thai fried rice in a white bowl with a skillet of fried rice on the side.
Thai Fried Rice. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Embracing the aromatic and complex flavors of Southeast Asia is easy with Thai Fried Rice. This dish is as enjoyable to make as it is to eat, providing an uncomplicated way to spice up dinner time. It offers a delicious blend of tastes that can transport your senses, making it a great option for weekday meals when you’re looking for something out of the ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Thai Fried Rice

Blackened Fish Tacos

Blackened fish tacos in taco holders.
Blackened Fish Tacos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Switching up taco night with Blackened Fish Tacos is a simple way to introduce new flavors to your weeknight meals. This recipe is straightforward, ensuring you get to the dining table quickly, without sacrificing taste or quality. It’s a refreshing take on traditional tacos, offering a lighter option that’s full of flavor. Opting for this meal could bring a new favorite into your repertoire, perfect for those evenings when you want to mix things up a bit.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Fish Tacos

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.
Spicy Ma Po Tofu with Ground Pork. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For a bold and hearty dish that will leave you feeling both satisfied and invigorated, Spicy Ma Po Tofu with Ground Pork is a standout choice. This dish combines the comforting texture of tofu with the robust flavors of ground pork for a meal that’s as fulfilling as it is quick to prepare. It’s the ideal pick for anyone looking to enjoy a deeply flavorful dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Ma Po Tofu with Ground Pork

Kung Pao Chicken Noodles

A skillet filled with stir-fried noodles and pieces of chicken being mixed with chopsticks.
Kung Pao Chicken Noodles. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

If you’re after a dish that combines the comfort of noodles with the excitement of bold flavors, Kung Pao Chicken Noodles may just be your match. This recipe is a fantastic way to bring a bit of pizzazz to your dinner table, without any unnecessary complications. It marries the ease of weeknight cooking with the kind of taste profile that can make an ordinary evening feel special.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken Noodles

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.
Crispy Feta Fried Eggs. Photo credit: Eggs All Ways.

Starting or ending your day with Crispy Feta Fried Eggs can add a simple yet unexpected twist to your meal routine. This dish is uncomplicated to make, offering a unique combination of flavors for a truly satisfying meal. It’s an excellent choice for those mornings or evenings when you’re looking for something a bit different but still comforting.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Feta Fried Eggs

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