21 easy-peasy unique dinners you should try tonight

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These easy-peasy, unique dinners are just what you need tonight to make a fresh, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The steps are simple, and the ingredients are easy to work with, so you won’t feel overwhelmed. Just use what you’ve got, and you’ll have something homemade and hearty before you know it.

Chicken pot pie soup in a white bowl with a spoon.
Chicken Pot Pie Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Stuffed bell pepper casserole in a pan with a wooden spoon.
Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole is perfect when you need something hearty but don’t have the time or energy for complicated prep. Ground beef, bell peppers, and rice create a filling and comforting meal. It takes 45 minutes, and everything comes together in one pot, which means less stress and less cleanup. You get the flavors of a classic stuffed pepper but without the extra work. It’s a great dish for busy nights and works well for leftovers, making tomorrow’s meal easier.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Baked Ravioli

A close-up of a cheesy baked ravioli garnished with herbs, with a fork lifting a portion to show the melted cheese.
Baked Ravioli. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Baked Ravioli is the answer if you love lasagna but need something quicker. It’s comforting, cheesy, and doesn’t require much time in the kitchen. Frozen ravioli saves you a ton of prep time, and you still get that layered goodness from marinara and melted cheese. This dish is ready in about an hour, perfect for when you want something hearty but need it to be simple. Whether you’re feeding a family or just yourself, it’s the kind of meal that satisfies you. Plus, it reheats well for next-day leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ravioli

Grilled Hot Honey Chicken

Grilled chicken pieces with a glossy glaze, garnished with chopped herbs, served on a beige plate.
Grilled Hot Honey Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Grilled Hot Honey Chicken is one of those dishes that brings big flavors with very little effort. It’s ready in 40 minutes, and the sweet and spicy glaze adds so much depth to the chicken. You can marinate it for as little as 15 minutes, then grill it while brushing on extra sauce. The best part? You can make the sauce ahead of time, so dinner is even quicker. This is perfect for a weeknight meal when you want something bold and different yet convenient.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Hot Honey Chicken

Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil

A dish of seasoned shrimp, corn on the cob, sausage slices, and potato chunks garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

The Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil is a lifesaver when you want a seafood feast without the hassle. Shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes all cook together in one pan, making it super convenient. Everything is seasoned with Old Bay, and you’ve got a complete meal in under an hour. It’s filling but doesn’t feel heavy, and the leftovers are just as good the next day. This recipe is perfect for busy nights when you need something quick but still want to enjoy a great meal. Plus, cleanup is easy, which is always a win.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil

Big Mac Salad

A person holding serving spoons in a bowl of Big Mac salad.
Big Mac Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Big Mac Salad gives you all the flavors of a burger but in a lighter, low-carb way. You’ve got crispy bacon, seasoned ground beef, cheddar cheese, and pickles, all tossed with romaine. The homemade Big Mac Sauce ties everything together and gives you that classic taste without the bun. It’s quick to make and even easier if you prep the sauce in advance. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a meal prep, this salad hits all the right notes.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Salad

Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon

Roasted butternut squash with cauliflower and bacon and dollops of sour cream with a spoon.
Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Roasted Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon is a simple but hearty dish that works as a side or a light main meal. The roasted veggies bring natural sweetness, while the bacon adds a nice, crispy bite. Spinach and red onion give it a little extra something without making it complicated. It’s a great way to get more veggies into your meals without feeling like you’re sacrificing anything.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon

Creamy Dijon Chicken

A pan of creamy dijon chicken with herbs and bacon.
Creamy Dijon Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Dijon Chicken is a quick, one-pan meal that delivers flavor without much work. The tangy mustard sauce, fresh spinach, and crispy bacon create a dish that feels special but comes together in just 30 minutes. It’s great for busy nights when you want something more than basic chicken but don’t have a lot of time to cook. The chicken is cooked in the same pan as the sauce, which means less cleanup. This dish is perfect for a simple but flavorful meal for the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Dijon Chicken

Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Chicken pot pie soup in a white bowl with a spoon.
Chicken Pot Pie Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Pot Pie Soup takes all the comfort of a classic pot pie and makes it easier for weeknight dinners. It is a one-pot stovetop recipe that is easy to make, taking only one hour to prepare from start to finish. Simple ingredients like chicken, potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and a creamy broth make it filling and comforting without the extra work of making a pie crust. Serve it with some bread or a salad, and you’ve got a great meal that feels cozy and homemade.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Reuben Bowls

A bowl of coleslaw with creamy dressing, garnished with green onions, served in a ceramic bowl with a fork.
Reuben Bowls. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Reuben Bowls are a simple way to enjoy all the flavors of a classic Reuben without the hassle of making a sandwich. Browned corned beef, crunchy coleslaw or sauerkraut, and a drizzle of Thousand Island dressing come together for a quick and comforting meal. The melted Swiss cheese adds that extra layer of heartiness. This meal takes just 30 minutes and is perfect for nights when you want something easy and filling. It’s also a smart choice for meal prepping, making your week less hectic while giving you something you’ll enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Reuben Bowls

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

A glass bowl of jalapeño popper chicken salad ingredients.
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad is perfect for adding spice to your routine. Shredded chicken, cream cheese, and jalapeños come together in a bold and comforting dish. You can make this ahead of time so it’s ready to go when your day gets busy. It’s easy to prep, and the flavors are anything but plain, making it a great choice when you need something quick but still exciting.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

Keto Zuppa Toscana

A bowl of keto zuppa Toscana with a spoon in it.
Keto Zuppa Toscana. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Keto Zuppa Toscana is a low-carb version of a favorite soup with all the comfort without the extra carbs. Radishes stand in for potatoes, giving you that same hearty texture while keeping things light. It’s ready in just an hour, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something filling but not too heavy. The sausage and creamy broth create a rich base that feels like a hug after a long day. It’s a practical, comforting option that fits right into your routine without adding extra stress.
Get the Recipe: Keto Zuppa Toscana

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

Spoon scooping up jalapeño popper casserole from a baking dish.
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole is all about comfort and convenience. Shredded chicken, crispy bacon, jalapeños, and cream cheese create a dish that’s full of flavor and warmth. It’s topped with cheese and baked until golden, making it a great option for a family meal or when you need something hearty after a long day. The best part? You get all the fun of jalapeño poppers in a full meal without any extra steps. Perfect for those nights when you want something simple but full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

A serving of Philly cheese steak casserole being pulled up from a pan.
Philly Cheese Steak Casserole. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Philly Cheese Steak Casserole takes the best parts of a classic sandwich and makes them easy to enjoy in a one-pan dish. You’ve got tender sirloin steak, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, all topped with melted provolone for a hearty and filling meal. Ready in under an hour, this is perfect for those nights when you want something comforting without spending too much time in the kitchen. It’s a dish that brings everyone together and makes dinnertime feel a little more special without adding extra work.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

Crock Pot Taco Soup

A crock pot of taco soup.
Crock Pot Taco Soup. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Crock Pot Taco Soup is the kind of meal that makes your day easier. With only 20 minutes of prep work to brown the beef and assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker, this soup can be started in the morning and left to cook all day, allowing delicious flavors to develop. Ground beef, taco seasoning, and tomatoes come together in a flavorful soup that’s ready when you are. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner when you don’t have the energy to cook but still want something filling. This recipe is the perfect set-it-and-forget-it meal.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Taco Soup

Sausage Curry

Sausage curry in a skillet garnished with herbs.
Sausage Curry. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sausage Curry is a great way to add some variety to your weeknight dinners. With a creamy curry sauce, sausages, and vegetables all cooked in one pan, it’s simple to make and flavorful. This dish is perfect for busy nights when you want something a little different without the extra work. Whether cooking for the family or just for yourself, this dish makes dinner time exciting and stress-free.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Curry

Pollo Asado

Pollo asado on a white plate with lime wedges.
Pollo Asado. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Pollo Asado is great for those evenings when you want something fresh and homemade. Chicken thighs are marinated in cilantro, onion, orange juice, and lime for a fresh, bright taste. Whether you use the grill, a pan, or the oven, you can look forward to a mouthwatering dinner. The chicken is grilled until cooked through, allowing it to absorb the full flavors of the marinade. It’s simple, straightforward, and exciting.
Get the Recipe: Pollo Asado

Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers

A chicken bacon ranch popper skewered by a toothpick.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers are a quick, fun meal when you’re looking for something easy but a little more exciting. Mix crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, and herbs and spices like dried dill, garlic powder, and onion powder. Form into balls, bake until cooked through, and serve with a creamy ranch dipping sauce. These poppers are great when you need a fast dinner that the whole family will love, and they’ll be ready in an hour, keeping things easy for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers

Meatza

A pizza with meat and sauce on a plate.
Meatza. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Meatza is the perfect swap for regular pizza when you want something hearty but low on carbs. A ground pork crust replaces the dough, and you can top it with your favorite pizza ingredients like sauce, mozzarella, and mushrooms. This meal is quick, easy, and comes together in about 40 minutes. It’s a great option for when you’re craving pizza but want to keep things lighter. Plus, it’s low maintenance, so you can get dinner on the table without spending a ton of time cooking.
Get the Recipe: Meatza

Hungarian Mushroom Soup

A bowl of Hungarian mushroom soup with a gold spoon.
Hungarian Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Hungarian Mushroom Soup is a comforting one-pot meal that’s ready in 45 minutes. Easy to make, it’s made with sliced mushrooms, onion, butter, flour, sour cream, milk and Hungarian paprika. It has a rich and flavorful profile thanks to its melted butter, onion base, and creamy dairy additions. It’s a great option for when you’re looking for something comforting and filling that doesn’t take too much effort. Simple, delicious, and perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels a little different.
Get the Recipe: Hungarian Mushroom Soup

Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Coconut curry Thai turkey meatballs on top of cauliflower rice in a bowl.
Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs are a great way to add bold flavors to your weeknight dinners without much hassle. With ground turkey, coconut milk, curry powder, and red curry paste, these meatballs come together in just 30 minutes. They’re a perfect choice for when you need something quick but want to switch things up a bit. You can serve them over cauliflower rice or regular rice for a complete meal. It’s a great option for when time’s tight, but you don’t want the same old dinner.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms

Cauliflower risotto in a pan.
Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms gives you the creamy risotto feel without the carbs. It’s made with cauliflower rice and plenty of mushrooms, making it light yet filling. Ready in 30 minutes, this one-pot dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal when you want something easy but still a little different. The creamy texture and rich mushroom flavor make this a great dinner option for those busy nights when you need something fast but still flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms

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