In a dinner rut? shake things up with these 21 dishes

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Breaking out of a dinner rut is easier than one might think, especially with a lineup of 21 dishes that are as diverse as they are delicious. This compilation serves as a culinary toolkit for anyone looking to shake up their mealtime routine, featuring recipes that range from quick weeknight fixes to leisurely weekend feasts. Each recipe is a step towards more dynamic and enjoyable dining experiences.

A piece of Cuban sandwich casserole on a plate with potato chips.
Cuban Sandwich Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

A plate of chicken thighs.
Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

These crispy, flavorful chicken thighs are a game-changer for weeknight dinners. Coated in a sweet and tangy honey garlic glaze and cooked to perfection in the air fryer, they’re a delicious alternative to boring old chicken. In a dinner rut? Shake things up with Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs and watch your taste buds rejoice.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Pasta e Fagioli Soup in 2 bowls with spoons.
Pasta e Fagioli Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Warm, comforting, and packed with Italian flavors, this soup is a hearty meal in a bowl. Loaded with pasta, beans, and vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth, it’s perfect for chilly evenings. In a dinner rut? Shake things up with Pasta e Fagioli Soup and treat yourself to a taste of Italy right at home.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Chicken Paprikash

Chicken Paprikash on a platter with gravy.
Chicken Paprikash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bring the flavors of Hungary to your dinner table with this rich and satisfying dish. Tender chicken simmered in a creamy paprika sauce is comfort food at its finest. In a dinner rut? Shake things up with Chicken Paprikash for a meal that’s sure to please the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash

Pork Belly Burnt Ends

A plate of smoked pork belly burnt ends with tomatoes and pickles.
Pork Belly Burnt Ends. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

These smoky, caramelized pork belly burnt ends are a carnivore’s dream come true. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, they’re packed with flavor in every bite. In a dinner rut? Shake things up with Pork Belly Burnt Ends and indulge in barbecue goodness any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Pork Belly Burnt Ends

Steak & Pasta Salad

Overheat shot of steakhouse pasta salad.
Steak & Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Juicy steak slices tossed with pasta, fresh vegetables, and a tangy vinaigrette make for a hearty and satisfying meal. Perfect for lunch or dinner, it’s a refreshing twist on the classic steak salad. In a dinner rut? Shake things up with Steak & Pasta Salad and enjoy a meal that’s both delicious and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Pasta Salad

Ham & Asparagus Pizza

A pizza with ham and asparagus on a pizza stone.
Ham & Asparagus Pizza. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This gourmet pizza combines the flavors of salty ham, tender asparagus, and creamy cheese for a taste sensation. Perfect for pizza night, it’s sure to become a family favorite. In a dinner rut? Shake things up with Ham & Asparagus Pizza and treat yourself to a homemade pie that’s anything but ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Ham & Asparagus Pizza

Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops

Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops on a baby blue serving dish.
Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Tender pork chops smothered in a rich and creamy Swiss cheese sauce – need we say more? With just a few simple ingredients, this slow cooker dish is a breeze to make and oh-so-delicious. In a dinner rut? Shake things up with Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops and enjoy a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops

Dutch oven Carnitas

Carnitas in a round black dish.
Dutch oven Carnitas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Juicy, flavorful, and perfect for tacos, burritos, or bowls, these carnitas are a must-try. Slow-cooked to perfection in a Dutch oven, they’re packed with authentic Mexican flavors. In a dinner rut? Shake things up with Dutch oven Carnitas and add a touch of spice to your weeknight meals.
Get the Recipe: Dutch oven Carnitas

Cream of Caramelized Onion & Mushroom Soup

Two bowls of cream of caramelized onion & mushroom soup with garlic and thyme.
Cream of Caramelized Onion & Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Velvety smooth and packed with rich flavors, this soup is pure comfort in a bowl. Caramelized onions and earthy mushrooms give it a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. In a dinner rut? Shake things up with Cream of Caramelized Onion & Mushroom Soup and warm your soul with every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Caramelized Onion & Mushroom Soup

Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze

Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze on a round platter.
Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoky, spicy, and finger-licking good, these chicken legs are a crowd-pleaser. Glazed with a tangy red pepper sauce and smoked to perfection, they’re sure to be a hit at your next barbecue. In a dinner rut? Shake things up with Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze and take your grilling game to the next level.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze

Cuban Sandwich Casserole

A piece of Cuban sandwich casserole on a plate with potato chips.
Cuban Sandwich Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

All the flavors of a classic Cuban sandwich layered into a delicious casserole. Packed with ham, roast pork, Swiss cheese, and pickles, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time. In a dinner rut? Shake things up with Cuban Sandwich Casserole and enjoy the taste of Havana right at home.
Get the Recipe: Cuban Sandwich Casserole

Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes

Wheat Berry Salad with Tomato & Tuna in a bowl.
Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Fresh, hearty, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors, this salad is a satisfying meal in itself. Perfect for lunch or dinner, it’s packed with protein and nutrients. In a dinner rut? Shake things up with Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes and enjoy a healthy and delicious meal that’s easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes

Pizza Raclette

A group of pizza raclette.
Pizza Raclette. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Take your pizza game to the next level with this indulgent Raclette-style pie. Loaded with gooey melted cheese, potatoes, and your favorite toppings, it’s a gourmet treat that’s sure to impress. In a dinner rut? Shake things up with Pizza Raclette and indulge in cheesy goodness like never before.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Raclette

Beef Bourguignon

Beef bourguignon in a white bowl with thyme.
Beef Bourguignon. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This classic French stew is the ultimate comfort food for chilly evenings. Tender beef, mushrooms, and carrots simmered in a rich red wine sauce – need we say more? In a dinner rut? Shake things up with Beef Bourguignon and treat yourself to a taste of France right at home.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bourguignon

Pickled Yellow Beans

Pickled yellow beans in a jar on a wooden table.
Pickled Yellow Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Tangy, crunchy, and full of flavor, these pickled yellow beans are the perfect addition to any meal. Whether as a side dish, snack, or topping, they add a burst of brightness to your plate. In a dinner rut? Shake things up with Pickled Yellow Beans and add a touch of tang to your table.
Get the Recipe: Pickled Yellow Beans

Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

A bowl of Mediterranean orzo salad on a black plate.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Light, refreshing, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors, this salad is a true delight. Tender orzo pasta, juicy shrimp, and a zesty vinaigrette make for a perfect summer meal. In a dinner rut? Shake things up with Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp and transport your taste buds to the shores of Greece.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

Smoked Cauliflower

Smoked cauliflower in a skillet on a wooden table.
Smoked Cauliflower. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoky, tender, and oh-so-delicious, this smoked cauliflower is a vegetarian delight. Perfect as a side dish or meatless main, it’s packed with flavor in every bite. In a dinner rut? Shake things up with Smoked Cauliflower and add a touch of barbecue goodness to your plate.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Cauliflower

Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Green beans with pork on a black plate.
Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Simmered to perfection with bacon and onions, these southern-style green beans are a comfort food classic. Packed with flavor and nutrients, they’re a wholesome addition to any meal. In a dinner rut? Shake things up with Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans and enjoy a taste of the South right at home.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Turkey à la King

A plate with a Turkey à la King and salad on it.
Turkey à la King. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Creamy, comforting, and packed with tender turkey and vegetables, this dish is a family favorite. Whether served over rice, noodles, or biscuits, it’s sure to warm your soul. In a dinner rut? Shake things up with Turkey à la King and cozy up to a meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Turkey à la King

Garlic Braised Beef Short Ribs

Braised Beef Short Ribs with gravy and mashed potatoes.
Garlic Braised Beef Short Ribs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Tender, succulent beef short ribs braised in a flavorful garlic and wine sauce – need we say more? Perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in, they’re a true comfort food delight. In a dinner rut? Shake things up with Garlic Braised Beef Short Ribs and treat yourself to a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Braised Beef Short Ribs

Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

Giant Cheese Stuffed Pasta Shells in two black serving dishes.
Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

These jumbo pasta shells stuffed with creamy cheese filling and baked to perfection are a crowd-pleaser every time. Whether served with marinara sauce or Alfredo, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. In a dinner rut? Shake things up with Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells and enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal that’s easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

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