Prep for dinner envy with these 21 drool-worthy dishes

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Get ready to be the envy of every dinner party with our collection of 21 drool-worthy dishes. These meals are designed to dazzle and delight, ensuring that your table is the one everyone talks about. From cozy family gatherings to elegant dinner parties, each dish is a showstopper that promises to bring both style and substance to your dining experience.

Mexican enchiladas in a baking dish.
Chicken Gluten Free Enchiladas. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

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

If you’re craving something that feels a bit fancy without the fuss, this dish is your go-to. It combines shrimp with a garlic and spinach sauce that’s both light and full of flavor. Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach is perfect for those evenings when you want to treat yourself but keep things simple. It’s great for turning a regular night into a special one with its easy elegance.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Chicken Divan

A casserole dish with cheese and broccoli on a napkin.
Chicken Divan. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Perfect for chicken lovers looking for a bit of comfort, this casserole dish brings together chicken and broccoli in a creamy sauce. Chicken Divan is a classic that never fails to please, making it a solid choice for a family dinner. Whether you are introducing it to the kids for the first time or having it as a familiar favorite, it always brings smiles at the dinner table. It’s simple, comforting, and sure to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Divan

Slow Cooker Lamb Ragu

a plate of slow cooker lamb ragu over pappardelle pasta surrounded by a block of parmesan, a white linen, and torn baguette.
Slow Cooker Lamb Ragu. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Set your slow cooker in the morning and come home to a dish that smells as good as it tastes. The lamb in Slow Cooker Lamb Ragu becomes wonderfully tender, melding with a rich, tomato-based sauce that’s full of depth. It’s a fantastic way to end a busy day, where dinner is ready without much work. Serve it over your choice of pasta or polenta for a fulfilling meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Lamb Ragu

Jalapeno Popper Chicken Casserole

Chicken enchilada casserole with corn and jalapenos.
Jalapeno Popper Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

Add a little excitement to your dinner with a casserole that packs some heat. Jalapeno Popper Chicken Casserole combines spicy jalapenos with creamy, cheesy goodness in a one-dish wonder that’s sure to be memorable. It’s perfect for those looking to spice up their meal routine while still keeping things easy and satisfying. This dish is a crowd-pleaser at any gathering or a spicy surprise for a family dinner.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeno Popper Chicken Casserole

Gochujang Noodles

Low angle shot of gochujang noodles with greens, mushrooms, and cheese on a grey and white plate.
Gochujang Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For those who love bold, international flavors, this noodle dish hits all the right notes. With the unique Korean gochujang chili paste, Gochujang Noodles offer a spicy and slightly sweet flavor profile that’s irresistibly different. They’re quick to whip up, making them perfect for a last-minute meal that’s out of the ordinary. Whether you’re new to Korean flavors or a seasoned fan, this dish is a fun way to switch up your pasta nights.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Noodles

Air Fryer Mongolian Beef

Closeup of crispy beef in a bowl with green onions and sesame seeds.
Air Fryer Mongolian Beef. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Quick and less greasy, Air Fryer Mongolian Beef is a real game changer for meat lovers. This air fryer version of the classic dish achieves that perfect balance of crispy edges with tender beef. It’s a lighter take on a takeout favorite that you can make right at home. Serve it with a side of rice or noodles for a complete meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Mongolian Beef

Green Bean Hamburger Casserole

Green bean casserole being served with wooden spoon.
Green Bean Hamburger Casserole. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Sometimes, you just need something hearty, and the Green Bean Hamburger Casserole delivers just that. It combines green beans with hamburger meat in a tomato-based sauce, baked to perfection. This dish is ideal for those nights when you need a comforting meal without any fuss. It’s a straightforward, no-nonsense dinner that satisfies the craving for something hearty and homey.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Hamburger Casserole

Chicken Paprikash

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

Dive into the flavors of Hungary with a classic Chicken Paprikash. This dish features chicken simmered in a creamy, paprika-laden sauce that’s rich in flavor and comforting in every bite. It’s a meal that’s both simple and sophisticated, perfect for a cozy family dinner or when you have guests over. Serve it with noodles or dumplings to soak up all that delicious sauce.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash

Grilled Rockfish Tacos

Grilled rockfish tacos assembled on a blue board.
Grilled Rockfish Tacos. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Lighten up your taco night with Grilled Rockfish Tacos, where fresh fish is the star. The tacos are paired with a slaw or salsa that brightens up the flavors, making each bite a perfect balance. They’re fantastic for a summer evening when you want something that feels festive yet easy to put together. This dish is a delightful twist on traditional tacos, offering a lighter option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Rockfish Tacos

Chicken Gluten Free Enchiladas

Mexican enchiladas in a baking dish.
Chicken Gluten Free Enchiladas. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

For those who are gluten-sensitive or just looking for a lighter version of a Mexican favorite, Chicken Gluten Free Enchiladas are a great option. They are packed with flavor and wrapped in a gluten-free tortilla, smothered in a delightful sauce and cheese. This dish proves that you don’t have to sacrifice taste for dietary needs. It’s a warming, filling meal that everyone can enjoy, whether you’re avoiding gluten or not.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gluten Free Enchiladas

Slow cooker fajitas

Wrap with steak fajitas, avocados and lime in it and limes and more ingredients around the wrap.
Slow cooker fajitas. Photo credit: Fitasamamabear.

Make your dinner effortlessly flavorful with Slow cooker fajitas. Just throw in the ingredients and let the slow cooker do its work, infusing every slice of meat with rich spices and aromas. It’s perfect for those busy days when you want a delicious meal waiting for you. Wrap it up in your favorite tortilla and add your toppings for a customizable dinner that’s both easy and exciting.
Get the Recipe: Slow cooker fajitas

Blackened Cod

Blackened cod served with tri color quinoa.
Blackened Cod. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Want something light yet packed with flavor? Blackened Cod provides a delightful spice crust that complements the mild, flaky fish perfectly. It’s an excellent choice for a quick yet impressive weeknight meal or when you want to serve something special without the hassle. This dish is about simple ingredients coming together to create a vibrant flavor experience that’s hard to resist.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Cod

Beef Kabobs

Beef kabobs on red plate.
Beef Kabobs. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Have some fun at dinner with Beef Kabobs, which let everyone customize their meal right off the grill. These are packed with veggies and chunks of beef, marinated to perfection. It’s not just a meal; it’s an interactive experience that’s perfect for gatherings or a family meal. Plus, everyone loves the chance to play with their food sometimes!
Get the Recipe: Beef Kabobs

Meatball Pasta Bake

A casserole dish with meatballs and pasta.
Meatball Pasta Bake. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

There’s something wonderfully comforting about a Meatball Pasta Bake, combining hearty meatballs with pasta and cheese baked until golden. It’s a fulfilling dish that brings a touch of homestyle cooking to any dinner table. Ideal for those colder days or when you need a bit of comfort food, this bake is sure to warm you up. It’s also great for feeding a crowd, making it a practical choice for gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Pasta Bake

Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

A crock pot filled with beef and peppers.
Slow Cooker Pepper Steak. Photo credit: Litlle House Big Alaska.

Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is perfect for those who love tender slices of steak with a bit of a kick. The slow cooker does all the work, infusing the meat with peppers and onions for a full-flavored dish that’s incredibly easy to prepare. It’s great for a hands-off dinner that feels like you’ve spent hours cooking. Serve it over rice for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

Creamy Zucchini Parmesan Pasta Sauce

Creamy zucchini pasta sauce with shaved parmesan.
Creamy Zucchini Parmesan Pasta Sauce. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

Lighten up your pasta night with Creamy Zucchini Parmesan Pasta Sauce. This sauce brings a creamy texture and rich flavor to any pasta dish, making it a fresh alternative to heavier pasta sauces. It’s a wonderful way to add some veggies to your meal in a form that even the pickiest eaters will love. This dish is perfect for a light, yet comforting meal that won’t weigh you down.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Zucchini Parmesan Pasta Sauce

Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Chops

Oven baked pork chop with pineapple and green beans, white plate wooden background.
Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Chops. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life.

Add a tropical twist to your dinner with Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Chops. The sweet and tangy flavor of the sauce makes these pork chops a hit at any table. It’s a simple way to bring some excitement to your meal lineup, and the pineapple adds a bright, fruity contrast that’s incredibly tasty. This dish is perfect for when you want something a little different but still comforting and familiar.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Chops

Cracker Barrel Chicken And Dumplings

A bowl of chicken and dumplings with a spoon and parsley.
Cracker Barrel Chicken And Dumplings. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Bring the comfort of a southern diner home with Cracker Barrel Chicken And Dumplings. This dish recreates that warm, comforting feel of fluffy dumplings and tender chicken, cooked to perfection. It’s like a hug in a bowl, ideal for those days when you need a little extra warmth. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone to the table with smiles.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Chicken And Dumplings

Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps (GF)

Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps (GF). Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Keep things light and fresh with Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps (GF), a wonderful alternative to traditional tacos. They’re packed with the same flavorful filling but wrapped in crisp lettuce, making them both satisfying and healthy. It’s a great choice for a light lunch or a fun dinner that won’t leave you feeling weighed down. Plus, they’re gluten-free, making them accessible for everyone at your table.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps (GF)

Brown Sugar Crockpot Pork

Shredded pork on a white plate.
Brown Sugar Crockpot Pork. Photo credit: Trina Krug.

Brown Sugar Crockpot Pork is a straightforward dish that lets the slow cooker do most of the work, creating a tender, sweetly glazed pork that’s effortlessly delicious. It’s perfect for setting up in the morning and coming home to a meal that’s ready to enjoy. This dish pairs well with simple sides for a dinner that feels like a treat. It’s a sweet way to end a long day, with minimal effort but maximum flavor.
Get the Recipe: Brown Sugar Crockpot Pork

Sour Cream Noodle Bake

Noodles and ground beef are mixed with a cheesy topping together in a creamy casserole.
Sour Cream Noodle Bake. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

Turn to Sour Cream Noodle Bake for a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for winding down after a busy day. Noodles and sour cream come together in a way that’s both simple and utterly satisfying. It’s a great dish for those nights when you need something comforting but still want to keep things uncomplicated. This bake is sure to fill you up with warmth and comfort, making it a favorite for relaxed evenings.
Get the Recipe: Sour Cream Noodle Bake

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