Dinners shouldn’t take longer to make than your drive home, and with these 21 recipes, they won’t. We’ve all been there: You’re stuck in traffic, your stomach’s growling, and you’re dreading the thought of spending another hour in the kitchen. Well, stress no more! These quick and easy meals are perfect for those who want to whip up something good to eat without spending all night cooking.
Shake and Bake Pork Chops
These Shake and Bake Pork Chops are your quick ticket to a great dinner, ready in just 25 minutes, with all the crunch but none of the frying. It’s the perfect pick for a weeknight when you’re short on time but still want something good. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, super simple for those just getting started in the kitchen and just the thing when you need to get a meal on the table fast.
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Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner
When the clock’s ticking and you’re looking for a winner, the Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner is your go-to. Spread your sausages and veggies on a pan, bake them, and you’re done. It’s a no-mess, no-stress kind of deal. Plus, cleaning up is a breeze. This is how you beat the clock and still have a great meal. Throw a drizzle of balsamic vinegar over the top before serving to add a quick burst of flavor.
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Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice
Get a filling meal on the table in 30 minutes with this skillet mix. It’s a hearty mix of ground beef, cauliflower rice, and cheddar. Add a dollop of sour cream and chives on top for extra flavor. Spices like cumin or paprika can customize it to your taste. Leftovers reheat well. Serve it hot, maybe with a bit of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh chives for garnish. Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the dish.
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Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach
Now, for something that tastes like you’ve been at it for hours but only takes 30 minutes, it’s the Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach. You throw everything into one pot and boom, you’ve got a dish that’s so good that you’ll think you’re at a fancy restaurant. Feel like mixing it up? Toss in some scallops or mussels right at the end.
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Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
If you need a quick fix, then The Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole has got you covered. Mix up some broccoli, cauliflower, cheese, and bacon, bake it, and you’ve got yourself a meal that’s filling and fast. If you’re really pressed for time, frozen veggies are your friend here. It’s a smart way to sneak in those veggies without anyone being the wiser. A quick sprinkle of chives on top before serving adds a nice touch of color and a mild onion flavor.
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Creamy Italian Sausage Soup
Forget about waiting around for dinner. With Creamy Italian Sausage Soup, you’re 30 minutes away from a meal that’s like a hug in a bowl. It’s packed with sausage, Parmesan, and cream cheese, making it just the right kind of hearty. It’s quick, easy, and beats out any takeout on a chilly night. Just sprinkle some Parmesan on top, and it’s like you’ve done something extra special. Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the creamy soup for a complete meal.
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Cabbage and Sausage
This dish is a snap to whip up, faster than it takes for a delivery to arrive. Just cook some cabbage, sausage, and onions together. It’s versatile, so feel free to add whatever else you’re craving. Switch up the sausage type or throw in a splash of vinegar for a new taste. Adding garlic boosts the flavor even more. And if you’ve got leftovers, they’ll still taste great the next day. To serve, simply dish it out hot from the skillet, maybe with a side of crusty bread. For a lighter version, you could try turkey sausage and add a mix of red and green cabbage.
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Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Perfect dish if you’ve got 20 minutes. Grab some chicken, get your skillet hot, and throw those chicken bites in with garlic and butter. It’s that simple. You can throw them over rice or veggies, whatever you’ve got. This is the kind of meal that gets you through a busy night. Plus, if you end up making too much, no worries—they’re still good in the fridge for a few days. To serve, sprinkle a little parsley on top for a pop of color and a fresh flavor kick.
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Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Here’s a meal that feels fancy but is ready in 30 minutes. Chicken covered in a creamy mushroom sauce that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or veggies. A little wine can improve the sauce beautifully. Leftovers are a breeze and taste just as good as when reheated. For a final touch, sprinkle on some fresh herbs. Plate it up with a generous serving of sauce and maybe a little extra sprinkle of herbs for color. Experimenting with different mushrooms, like shiitake or portobello, can add different flavors to this dish.
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Spinach Chicken Bake
Combine chicken, spinach, cream cheese, and mozzarella, and you’ve got yourself a delicious bake in no time. It’s a comforting meal that’s quicker than takeout. Feel free to swap out the spinach or add in artichokes. If you like a bit of texture, top it with breadcrumbs in the last few minutes of baking. Leftovers keep well. Serve this creamy bake straight from the oven, perhaps with a crisp salad on the side for balance. To mix things up, try adding a layer of roasted red peppers for a sweet and earthy flavor.
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Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs
Shake up your dinner routine with these meatballs, ready in 30 minutes. They’re fantastic over cauliflower rice or noodles. You can swap turkey for chicken or beef if you prefer. This dish is full of flavor and keeps dinner exciting. Leftovers are just as good the next day. For serving, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness and color. Using different curry pastes, such as green or red, can easily adjust the heat and flavor profile of the dish.
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Creamy Garlic Chicken
In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy Creamy Garlic Chicken. This simple yet special dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or veggies. Add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for more depth. It reheats nicely, ensuring a great meal later on. A bit of fresh parsley on top adds color and freshness. Serve this creamy chicken over your choice of side, garnished with parsley, for a restaurant-worthy presentation. For a heartier variation, mix in some cooked bacon or pancetta to the sauce for extra richness.
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Bell Pepper Sandwich
Here’s a quick, 10-minute dinner idea: swap bread for bell peppers and fill them with turkey and cream cheese. Experiment with fillings like chicken salad or hummus. It’s best enjoyed fresh but can last a day if needed. For a spicy version, add jalapeños. Serve immediately or wrap tightly for later. For an extra crunch, include some sliced cucumbers or radishes inside the sandwich.
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Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken
This dish is a 30-minute wonder. Chicken in a creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes feels like a treat. It pairs easily with sides and makes dinner feel a bit more luxurious. Adding greens increases its appeal. Leftovers manage well for a delicious second round. Finish it off with some grated Parmesan before serving for that perfect cheesy touch. Throwing in a handful of olives can add a briny depth to the sauce, which pairs really nicely with the sun-dried tomatoes.
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Lemon Garlic Scallops
Bring a bit of elegance to your table with scallops sautéed in lemon and garlic, ready in 30 minutes. They pair well with pasta or a fresh salad. For extra zing, add chili flakes or capers. While best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be stored briefly. Plate these scallops with their sauce and maybe a side of angel hair pasta to soak up the flavors. For an alternative, try adding a splash of white wine to the sauce for an added layer of complexity.
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Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach
Whip up a Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach in just 30 minutes for a meal that feels like a hug. It’s cheesy, filling, and incredibly simple to make. Experiment with different cheeses each time for a variety of flavors. This casserole not only reheats beautifully but also pairs beautifully with a garden salad for a complete meal. It’s a hit for family dinners or when friends come over, serving 4-6 people. For a different spin, mix in some smoked paprika or a pinch of chili flakes to the casserole for an extra kick of flavor.
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Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms
Dive into a bowl of Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms and enjoy a luxurious meal without the wait. Ready in 30 minutes, this dish adds a sophisticated touch to your dinner with minimal effort. Feel free to enhance it with roasted garlic or a dash of truffle oil. It’s also great for leftovers, maintaining its creamy goodness with a little added broth upon reheating. Top with freshly grated Parmesan and a drizzle of truffle oil before serving for an unforgettable flavor. For variety, try adding different mushrooms or a handful of greens like spinach.
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Creamy Dijon Chicken
Creamy Dijon Chicken, ready in just 30 minutes, mixes comfort with elegance. The combination of chicken thighs, Dijon mustard sauce, spinach, and bacon creates a dinner that feels indulgent. It’s straightforward, matches perfectly with roasted veggies, and leftovers store and reheat easily. Perfect alongside fluffy mashed potatoes or steamed rice. If you’re in the mood for a crunch, sprinkle some crispy fried onions on top before serving.
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Canned Chicken Patties
Ready in just 20 minutes, Canned Chicken Patties are your answer if you need a quick dinner. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and versatile enough to match with your favorite sides or dipping sauces. Easy to store and reheat, these patties can be refreshed in the oven or on a skillet. They’re perfect in burgers or alongside a salad for a lighter meal. Mix in some diced jalapeños or cheese into the patty mix for an extra burst of flavor.
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Fried Cabbage with Bacon
Fried Cabbage with Bacon is a quick and flavorful dish, ready in under 30 minutes. It stores and reheats well, making your meal planning a breeze. Add grilled chicken or more bacon for an extra protein boost. This dish can easily serve up to 4 people, making it a flexible option for any meal. For a complete meal, serve it alongside mashed potatoes or crusty bread.
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Cheesy Fajita Baked Chicken
With just 30 minutes, you can enjoy Cheesy Fajita Baked Chicken – a dish that’s sure to please everyone. It combines chicken, cream cheese, sweet peppers, and mozzarella for a flavorful meal. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a night in, and it’s great for bringing people together. Serve it up on tortillas for a fun, customizable meal. Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cilantro on top for an extra layer of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Fajita Baked Chicken