17 feel-good dinners for when you want to eat like it’s the holidays

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Some nights call for dinners that bring a little extra comfort, and these recipes do just that. Each one captures the rich, satisfying flavors that feel like a holiday meal, perfect for when you want a taste of celebration in the middle of the week. From hearty casseroles to saucy main dishes, these meals keep things cozy without requiring hours in the kitchen. Get ready to bring that holiday feel to your table any night you choose.

Chicken casserole with baked cheese inside a white dish.
Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet

A serving of creamy balsamic chicken skillet next to a serving of green salad.
Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

This Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet is a quick 30-minute option that brings a touch of comfort with its rich, tangy balsamic cream sauce. The chicken’s bold flavor makes it feel like a special meal, perfect for when you want a holiday vibe on a busy night. With simple ingredients like chicken, balsamic vinegar, and cream, it’s hearty without being complicated. A comforting dish that wraps up the day on a festive note.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet

Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes

Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

This Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes recipe is a hearty meal that brings cozy holiday flavors with roasted garlic and fresh herbs. The pork stays juicy, and the potatoes crisp up perfectly, creating a one-pan meal that’s filling and fuss-free. Ready in 45 minutes, it’s a dish that captures the warmth of a holiday meal without the long prep. Perfect for nights when you want something easy yet festive.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes

Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy

Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

This Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy delivers classic comfort with tender chicken and vegetables in a flaky crust. The creamy tarragon sauce adds richness, making it feel like a special holiday meal that’s worth every minute of the hour it takes to prepare. It’s an excellent choice when you’re craving a homestyle dinner that feels extra cozy. A dish that fills both your plate and your evening with warmth.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy

Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mustard BBQ Sauce

Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mustard BBQ Sauce. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

This Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mustard BBQ Sauce is an 8-hour meal that does the work while you enjoy your day. The tangy mustard BBQ sauce brings bold flavor to the tender pork, making it a meal that feels like a holiday feast without the stress. Just set it up, let it cook, and come home to a comforting dinner. Perfect for nights when you want something special with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mustard BBQ Sauce

One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner

One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

This One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner, ready in 40 minutes, brings bold, savory flavors with garlic-seasoned pork and colorful peppers. It’s a great choice when you want a festive, satisfying meal but don’t have the time for something complicated. The one-pan approach keeps cleanup simple, leaving more time to relax. A straightforward dish that feels like a treat with every bite.
Get the Recipe: One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner

Roasted Chicken and Vegetables

Roasted chicken and vegetables in a skillet on a cutting board.
Roasted Chicken and Vegetables. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

This Roasted Chicken and Vegetables dish combines seasoned chicken thighs, carrots, and potatoes in one pan for a 50-minute meal. With the warmth of garlic and herbs, it’s a wholesome dinner that feels reminiscent of holiday gatherings. Perfect for nights when you want a full meal with minimal prep, it brings hearty flavors to the table. A satisfying choice that makes any night feel festive.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Chicken and Vegetables

Pork Chops and Applesauce with Blackberries

Pork chops with blackberry applesauce on a gray plate.
Pork Chops and Applesauce with Blackberries. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Pork Chops with Applesauce and Blackberries brings a seasonal twist to dinner with its combination of sweet apples and tart berries. Done in 35 minutes, this dish balances savory pork with fruity flavors, making it feel like a holiday meal. It’s an easy way to add a festive touch without spending all evening in the kitchen. A dish that’s as flavorful as it is quick.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops and Applesauce with Blackberries

Citrus Glazed Pork Chops

Grilled pork chops on a plate with oranges and limes.
Citrus Glazed Pork Chops. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

These Citrus Glazed Pork Chops add a bright, festive feel with their tangy-sweet citrus and honey glaze. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish pairs savory pork with refreshing flavors that make it feel special. It’s an easy way to bring a holiday-style dinner to a busy weeknight. Each bite has a hint of celebration, perfect for ending the day on a high note.
Get the Recipe: Citrus Glazed Pork Chops

Pork Chops with Mustard Shallot Gravy

Pork Chops with Mustard Shallot Gravy. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

In just 30 minutes, these Pork Chops with Mustard Shallot Gravy bring a rich, comforting taste with a creamy, savory sauce. The mustard and shallot add depth, making it feel like a refined, holiday-worthy meal that’s surprisingly easy to make. It’s an elegant yet approachable dinner option for any night. The gravy adds a festive richness to every bite.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops with Mustard Shallot Gravy

Chicken Shawarma Plate

Chicken Shawarma Plate. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

This Chicken Shawarma Plate brings a touch of Middle Eastern-inspired flavor with juicy, spiced chicken and fresh veggies in just 45 minutes. The aromatic spices create a holiday-like feast that’s perfect for busy nights when you want something unique yet easy. It’s a balanced meal that doesn’t require extra work, but brings a sense of celebration to your table. Ideal for nights when flavor and ease go hand in hand.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Shawarma Plate

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

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

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a quick, 20-minute option featuring tender chicken cooked in rich garlic butter. Simple yet flavorful, this dish is a great way to add a touch of holiday indulgence to your weeknight without over-complicating dinner. Perfect for those nights when you crave something comforting and easy. A small effort with big flavor, ideal for a festive mood.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Copycat Alice Springs Chicken

A picture of Alice Springs chicken on white plate.
Copycat Alice Springs Chicken. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

With flavors of bacon, mushrooms, and cheese, this Copycat Alice Springs Chicken feels like a restaurant treat that’s holiday-worthy in its richness. Ready in 30 minutes, it brings comfort to your weeknight with the ease of home cooking. The hearty ingredients make it a great choice when you want to make dinner feel special. Perfect for a cozy night when you want a bit more from your meal.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Springs Chicken

Creamy Garlic Chicken

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

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a quick and comforting 30-minute dinner, featuring chicken breasts in a rich garlic cream sauce. Simple ingredients create a dish that feels indulgent, perfect for nights when you want a holiday-style meal without a lot of work. Each bite brings a warm, homey flavor that feels special. A cozy way to add a bit of celebration to your weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole

Cabbage beef casserole inside cast iron.
Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

This Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole combines ground beef and cabbage in a dish that brings classic family flavors in just 40 minutes. With its hearty, comforting ingredients, it feels like a holiday-inspired meal, perfect for unwinding after a long day. Each cheesy bite brings the nostalgia of a special gathering to your dinner table. A simple, filling meal that adds warmth to your evening.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole

Steak and Mushrooms with Balsamic Sauce

A plate with steak, tomatoes and cucumbers on it.
Steak and Mushrooms with Balsamic Sauce. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This 30-minute Steak and Mushrooms with Balsamic Sauce brings a touch of elegance to a quick weeknight meal. The tender steak and mushrooms, paired with the balsamic sauce, make it feel like a refined dinner with minimal effort. It’s a great choice when you want a special dinner that doesn’t take all night to prepare. A little indulgence to elevate any evening.
Get the Recipe: Steak and Mushrooms with Balsamic Sauce

Beef Stew Goulash Instant Pot

Goulash inside white casserole.
Beef Stew Goulash Instant Pot. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

This Beef Stew Goulash combines tender beef and paprika in a rich, comforting meal made easy with the Instant Pot. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s perfect for chilly nights when you want something that feels homey and hearty. With its deep flavors, this dish brings a cozy holiday feel to your table without the long hours. A warm and effortless dinner for a relaxed evening.
Get the Recipe: Beef Stew Goulash Instant Pot

Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole

Chicken casserole with baked cheese inside a white dish.
Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

Combining chicken, bacon, and cheese, this Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole is creamy and comforting, ready in just 30 minutes. Its hearty flavors make it feel like a special Sunday dinner, perfect for nights when you want holiday-like comfort with minimal prep. This filling dish is easy to make yet loaded with flavors that feel like a treat. It’s the kind of meal you’ll want to enjoy again and again.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole

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