21 saucy dinners that bring big flavor to the table

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Dinner should always bring the flavor, and nothing delivers like a bold, saucy dish. These recipes take center stage with creamy, spicy, and sticky combinations that pack a punch in every bite. Each one is loaded with flavors that make every meal feel like a standout. From classics with a twist to unexpected favorites, this lineup guarantees meals worth getting excited about.

Stuffed chicken marsala in a cast iron skillet.
Stuffed Chicken Marsala. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Baked Skillet Gnocchi

Gnocchi with ground pork, tomatoes, mozzarella and spinach in a cast iron skillet.
Baked Skillet Gnocchi. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Gnocchi gets the spotlight in this one-skillet wonder. With ground pork, crushed tomatoes, spinach, and melted mozzarella, it’s a comfort-packed dinner with minimal effort. One pan, big flavor, and barely any cleanup—what’s not to love?
Get the Recipe: Baked Skillet Gnocchi

Creamy Tomato Farfalle

Creamy tomato farfalle with peas and prosciutto in a white bowl.
Creamy Tomato Farfalle. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This creamy tomato farfalle hits all the marks for a quick, flavorful meal. Peas and crispy prosciutto bring it all together in just 20 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight when you want something great without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tomato Farfalle

Instant Pot Bolognese

Instant Pot bolognese recipe on a plate with a fork.
Instant Pot Bolognese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Classic bolognese meets modern convenience. The Instant Pot delivers all the deep, hearty flavors of the traditional sauce in a fraction of the time. Serve with pasta and a heap of parmesan for a dinner that’s always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Bolognese

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Honey garlic chicken in a bowl served over rice.
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This honey garlic chicken makes takeout jealous. A sticky-sweet sauce with pineapple pieces creates a slow-cooker dinner that’s both easy and bursting with flavor. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’ll quickly earn a spot in your rotation.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Creamy Pumpkin Garlic Pasta

Creamy pumpkin pasta with garlic and tuscan kale in a bowl with a spoon.
Creamy Pumpkin Garlic Pasta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Pumpkin garlic pasta brings creamy, savory goodness to your plate. With a hint of seasonal spices, it’s a cozy dinner that’s perfect for the cooler months.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pumpkin Garlic Pasta

Gochujang Chicken

Chinese gochujang chicken in a skillet on a table with black kitchen towel wrapped around the handle.
Gochujang Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Sticky, spicy, and sweet, this gochujang chicken is a 30-minute dinner that’s packed with bold flavor. Serve it over white rice for a quick meal that tastes like your favorite takeout.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Chicken

Easy Creamy Stroganoff

Dairy-free venison stroganoff over pasta garnished with parsley.
Easy Creamy Stroganoff. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This creamy stroganoff swaps sour cream for plain coconut yogurt, making it perfect for those skipping dairy. Whether you use beef or venison, it’s rich, hearty, and great for winter nights.
Get the Recipe: Easy Creamy Stroganoff

Instant Pot Picadillo

Vegan tempeh picadillo served in a bowl with cauliflower rice.
Instant Pot Picadillo. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This plant-based spin on Cuban picadillo packs in tempeh, lentils, potatoes, and bold flavors like Spanish olives, capers, and raisins. The Instant Pot makes it quick and easy, perfect for a hearty dinner without the long wait.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Picadillo

Instant Pot Tomato and White Beans

Instant Pot white beans and tomatoes on sourdough toast garnished with fresh herbs and crumbled feta.
Instant Pot Tomato and White Beans. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Hearty and simple, this Instant Pot tomato and white beans recipe is ready in no time. Serve it over toasted sourdough bread for a satisfying, saucy meal that’s big on flavor and low on effort.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Tomato and White Beans

Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Lemon ricotta pasta with cherry tomatoes and basil on a white plate.
Lemon Ricotta Pasta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Creamy ricotta, fresh basil, and tomatoes come together in this lemony pasta dish. It’s light, quick, and great for when you want something bright but still comforting.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Lentil Bolognese

Lentil bolognese garnished with basil in a metal dish.
Lentil Bolognese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Lentil bolognese is a hearty, plant-based take on the classic. Serve it over pasta or noodles for a budget-friendly dinner that’s still loaded with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Bolognese

Spicy Skillet Lamb Ragu

Lamb ragu with cavatappi pasta in a white skillet.
Spicy Skillet Lamb Ragu. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This lamb ragu is a one-skillet dinner that brings the heat. With cavatappi pasta, harissa paste, and crushed tomatoes, it’s perfect for anyone who loves bold, spicy flavors.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Skillet Lamb Ragu

Cream Cheese Chicken

Cream cheese chicken in a white skillet.
Cream Cheese Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Cream cheese chicken is the cure for boring weeknight meals. Seasoned with five spices, it’s creamy, savory, and packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Chicken

Greek Shrimp Skillet

Shrimp skillet dinner with kalamata olives, tomatoes and feta.
Greek Shrimp Skillet. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This Greek shrimp skillet is a quick 30-minute dinner loaded with tomatoes, spinach, Kalamata olives, and feta. The fresh oregano and lemon take it up a notch without extra work.
Get the Recipe: Greek Shrimp Skillet

Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Ground beef pasta skillet garnished with parsley.
Ground Beef Pasta Skillet. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This ground beef pasta skillet is ready in under 30 minutes and tastes like it’s been simmering all day. It’s comfort food made simple and perfect for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Lamb Bolognese

Lamb bolognese with tagliatelle noodles.
Lamb Bolognese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Lamb bolognese brings rich flavor to the table with red wine, fresh herbs, and plenty of tomatoes. Serve over tagliatelle for a classic dinner that feels special but isn’t hard to pull off.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Bolognese

Stuffed Chicken Marsala

Stuffed chicken marsala in a cast iron skillet.
Stuffed Chicken Marsala. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Stuffed chicken marsala takes the classic dish up a notch with melted mozzarella, savory tomato butter, and fresh basil tucked inside. It’s fancy enough for guests but easy enough for any night.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Chicken Marsala

Slow Cooker Short Rib Ragu

Slow cooker short rib ragu in a bowl over mashed sweet potatoes with a fork.
Slow Cooker Short Rib Ragu. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This slow cooker short rib ragu is perfect for a no-fuss dinner. Serve it over mashed sweet potatoes or pasta for a meal that’s comforting without being complicated.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Short Rib Ragu

Winter Vegetable Curry

Winter Vegetable Curry. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This winter vegetable curry is packed with butternut squash, cauliflower, kale, and chickpeas. It’s an easy vegetarian dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor or heartiness.
Get the Recipe: Winter Vegetable Curry

Salsa Chicken

A white dish with chicken in a tomato sauce.
Salsa Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Salsa chicken is the quick, flavorful meal your weeknight needs. With chicken, salsa, sweet corn, and cheddar cheese baked together, it’s ready in under 30 minutes and great for feeding the family.
Get the Recipe: Salsa Chicken

Jalapeño Chicken

Jalapeño Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This jalapeño chicken brings takeout vibes to your kitchen. Crispy chicken bites are cooked with spicy jalapeños and tossed in a sticky, sweet, and salty sauce. Serve over rice for a meal packed with bold, addictive flavor.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Chicken

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