23 midweek meals to get out of your dinner rut

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Midweek meals can be tricky, especially when you feel like you’re making the same dishes over and over again. It’s easy to get stuck in a routine, cooking the same few favorites each week. But dinner doesn’t have to be predictable. There’s a world of simple and quick recipes out there waiting to shake things up. With these 23 dishes, you can break free from the usual and make weeknight dinners something to look forward to again.

Creamy ground beef skillet with cauliflower rice garnished with fresh herbs with a fork.
Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Spinach Chicken Bake

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

The Spinach Chicken Bake is great for busy midweek meals. In just 30 minutes, you can have a filling chicken dish with cream cheese, mozzarella, and spinach. It’s made in one pan, which is perfect if you’re just starting to cook. Plus, there’s less to clean up afterward. It’s a simple, warm dinner that works well on any weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Chicken Bake

Cabbage and Sausage

A fork in a bowl of cabbage and sausage.
Cabbage and Sausage. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Cabbage and Sausage is a quick dinner idea that’s perfect for the middle of the week. It’s made with just two main ingredients, so it’s easy for anyone to make. Everything is cooked in one pan, making cooking and cleanup a breeze. It’s a full meal on its own, making dinner decisions easy and quick.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage

Crock Pot Taco Soup

For a simple midweek meal, the Crock Pot Taco Soup is a top choice. Spend 20 minutes prepping, toss in ground beef and some basic ingredients, then let the slow cooker do its thing. It’s an easy recipe that both beginners and seasoned cooks will love. After a busy day, coming home to this warm soup is just the comfort you need.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Taco Soup

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.

For a quick midweek dinner, the Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice is a solid choice. In 30 minutes, you can whip up a meal with ground beef, cheddar cheese, cauliflower rice, and mushrooms. It’s all done in one skillet, making it convenient and straightforward. It’s a full meal by itself, making it perfect for those nights when you’re short on time.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Fajita Baked Chicken

This Fajita Baked Chicken is a straightforward recipe perfect for midweek meals. In half an hour, you can enjoy chicken paired with cream cheese, sweet peppers, and mozzarella. It’s simple to make, even if you’re new to cooking. Serve it hot for a complete and flavorful dinner. Its quick prep and cook time make it a regular favorite for weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Fajita Baked 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.

This Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole is a comforting choice for midweek dinners. Broccoli, cauliflower, cheese, and bacon come together for a flavorful experience. It’s easy to make and can be customized based on your preferences. Once it’s ready, you have a warm and hearty meal that’s especially great for those cooler evenings.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

If you’re looking for a flavorful midweek meal, the Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce won’t disappoint. Using one pan, you’ll have chicken paired with a rich mushroom sauce. It’s simple and perfect for those who may not have a lot of cooking experience. Pair it with your favorite side, and you’ve got a complete dinner ready in just 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

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

These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites offer bite-sized chicken pieces cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce. They’re quick to make, taking only 20 minutes. It’s a straightforward recipe that provides a flavorful punch, making your midweek dinner both enjoyable and efficient.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Hungarian Mushroom Soup

For a warm and comforting midweek dinner, the Hungarian Mushroom Soup is a top pick. Ready in 45 minutes, this soup combines easy steps with rich flavors. It’s a great choice for both new cooks and those more experienced. After a long day, this comforting soup is just what you need to relax.
Get the Recipe: Hungarian Mushroom Soup

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.

This Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup is a creamy and heartwarming option for midweek meals. Made in one pot, you’ll have a rich and flavorful bowl ready in an hour. It’s a cozy meal that works just as well for a relaxed weekend as it does for a busy weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

Chicken Corn Soup

This Chicken Corn Soup is a great one-pot meal for midweek dinners. In less than an hour, you’ll have a soup filled with tender chicken and hearty vegetables. It’s easy to make and is a great way to warm up on a chilly evening. The straightforward recipe is good for cooks of all levels and is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Corn Soup

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.

This Creamy Italian Sausage Soup is a hearty option that’s perfect for midweek meals. In just 30 minutes, you’ll combine Italian sausage, cream cheese, tomatoes, and cream for a rich soup. It’s a full meal on its own and is simple to make. It’s perfect for those evenings when you’re looking for something comforting and quick.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Fried Cabbage with Bacon

For a simple and flavorful dinner, try Fried Cabbage with Bacon. Ready in about 25 minutes, this dish brings together cabbage, bacon, and onions. It’s easy to make and doesn’t require any complicated steps, making it great for midweek meals when you’re short on time.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

This Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken is a complete meal that’s ready in 30 minutes. Cooked in one pan, chicken thighs are paired with a flavorful sun-dried tomato sauce. The easy steps make this dish a top choice for midweek dinners, and it pairs well with rice or pasta.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

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.

When you’re in need of a straightforward midweek dinner, the Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner is a lifesaver. In 30 minutes, you’ll have roasted sausage and vegetables ready to serve. It’s balanced and simple, making it ideal for those nights when you need something quick without a lot of fuss.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Canned Chicken Patties

These Canned Chicken Patties are a convenient dinner solution that takes only 20 minutes to prepare. Using canned chicken, they’re easy to make and are versatile enough for sandwiches or to be enjoyed on their own. It’s a practical choice for those busy midweek nights.
Get the Recipe: Canned Chicken Patties

Big Mac Salad

This Big Mac Salad brings familiar flavors to the table without the need for a bun. Assembling this dish involves lettuce, ground beef, and a special homemade sauce. It’s simple to put together and serves as a full meal, making it a favorite for midweek dinners.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Salad

Creamy Garlic Chicken

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

This Creamy Garlic Chicken is a one-pan dish that’s ready in 30 minutes. With a rich garlic cream sauce, the chicken becomes even more flavorful. It’s a straightforward recipe perfect for midweek meals, especially when paired with steamed vegetables or rice.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

If you’re seeking a filling dinner, the Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach is a top choice. In 30 minutes, you can combine beef, cauliflower rice, spinach, and cheddar cheese for a hearty dish. It’s straightforward and sure to be a hit on any weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

This Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad mixes spicy jalapeños with creamy dressing and chicken. It’s simple to make and can be enjoyed on its own or with your favorite sides. It’s a great choice for a quick and flavorful midweek meal.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Tuscan garlic shrimp and spinach with tomatoes in a pan.
Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Ready in 30 minutes, this Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach dish offers a blend of shrimp, garlic, tomatoes, and spinach. Made in one pan, it’s easy to prepare and is filled with great flavors. Perfect for a busy midweek dinner when you want something nutritious and tasty.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

This Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole offers a blend of spicy and creamy, and it’s ready in under an hour. Ingredients like chicken, bacon, cream cheese, and jalapeños are combined for a flavorful experience. This casserole is great for midweek dinners when you’re looking for something different and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers

For a fun twist on midweek meals, these Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers are a must-try. These poppers are simple to make and combine chicken, bacon, cheese, and spices. They’re filling and can be paired with a dipping sauce or enjoyed as they are.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers

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