Easy recipes are the lifesaver every parent needs to survive the chaos of school nights. When homework, sports, and bedtime routines collide, who has time to cook gourmet meals? This collection is like the superhero cape you never knew you needed. They’re quick, they’re simple, and they’re perfect for keeping everyone fed without losing your sanity. So, put down that takeout menu and let’s get cooking.
![Loaded broccoli cauliflower casserole in a baking dish garnished with green onions.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Loaded-Broccoli-Cauliflower-Casserole-1024x682.jpg)
Chicken Tater Tot Casserole
![A casserole dish filled with tater tots, shredded chicken, and corn, topped with melted cheese and green onions.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicken-Tater-Tot-Casserole-1.jpg)
This Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is ready in less than an hour and is perfect comfort food for any day of the week. Budget-friendly and easy to make, it can be prepped in advance and baked later. Leftovers freeze really well, making it a hit with both kids and adults. Pair it with some steamed veggies or a simple salad.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tater Tot Casserole
Tuna Macaroni Salad
![Close-up of a creamy pasta salad sprinkled with paprika and garnished with chopped herbs in a white bowl.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Tuna-Macaroni-Salad.jpg)
This Tuna Macaroni Salad is a budget-friendly and straightforward meal ready in just 40 minutes. Made with ingredients you probably already have, it’s great for beginner cooks. Perfect for meal prepping workday lunches, weeknight dinners, or bringing to a potluck. Serve it chilled with some fresh fruit or veggies on the side.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Macaroni Salad
Crock Pot Taco Soup
![A crock pot of taco soup.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Crock-Pot-Taco-Soup-1.jpg)
Crock Pot Taco Soup is a great option for busy school nights. Made without beans and using pantry staples, it requires just 20 minutes of prep time. Brown some ground beef on the stovetop, add the ingredients to your slow cooker, set it to cook, then garnish and serve. It’s a no-fuss meal the whole family will love.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Taco Soup
Shake and Bake Pork Chops
![Two shake and bake pork chops on a plate.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Shake-and-Bake-Pork-Chops-1.jpg)
Shake and Bake Pork Chops offer an effortless way to get flavorful, crispy pork chops without frying. Ready in just 25 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Serve them with mashed potatoes or a side of steamed veggies. Leftovers can be used in sandwiches or salads the next day, making them versatile and convenient.
Get the Recipe: Shake and Bake Pork Chops
Spinach Chicken Bake
![A serving spoon serving of creamy spinach chicken bake.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Creamy-Spinach-Chicken-Bake.jpg)
This Spinach Chicken Bake is perfect for weeknight dinners, ready in just 30 minutes. This casserole features chicken thighs, spinach, cream cheese, and mozzarella. It’s quick, easy, and sure to be a hit with the kids. Pair it with some kid-friendly sides like mashed potatoes or buttered noodles to make it more appealing to young palates. You can also serve it with a side of steamed carrots or green beans for a touch of veggies that kids will enjoy. For a fun twist, serve with some cheesy garlic breadsticks to the meal.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Chicken Bake
Baked Ravioli
![A close-up of a cheesy baked ravioli garnished with herbs, with a fork lifting a portion to show the melted cheese.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Baked-Ravioli.jpg)
This Baked Ravioli is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It’s reminiscent of lasagna but with a lot less effort. Using frozen cheese ravioli cuts down on prep time, and layers of marinara sauce and melted cheeses create a great meal that comes together in just 1 hour. Serve it with a side salad or some garlic bread. Leftovers reheat well, making it a convenient option.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ravioli
Reuben Bowls
![A bowl of coleslaw with creamy dressing, garnished with green onions, served in a ceramic bowl with a fork.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Reuben-Bowls-rotated.jpg)
These Reuben Bowls are a delicious, easy-to-make meal ready in just 30 minutes. Great for a quick dinner or a make-ahead lunch, they feature browned deli corned beef, coleslaw or shredded cabbage, sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese, all drizzled with homemade or store-bought Thousand Island dressing. Serve with a side of pickles or some rye bread for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Reuben Bowls
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
![A casserole dish filled with broccoli and cheese.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Loaded-Broccoli-Cauliflower-Casserole-1024x723.jpg)
This Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole is made with frozen broccoli and cauliflower, mixed with a creamy cheese sauce and bacon. Baked to golden perfection, it’s ready in just 30 minutes. A great dinner choice that kids will love. Serve it with a side of applesauce or fruit slices to balance out the savory flavors.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
Loaded Tater Tots
![A close-up of loaded tater tots topped with melted cheese, bacon, chopped green onions, and a drizzle of creamy sauce being added from a white spoon.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Loaded-Tater-Tots-1.jpg)
Loaded Tater Tots are ready in 35 minutes and perfect for game day parties, casual gatherings, or a fun family dinner night. Crispy tater tots are topped with melted cheddar cheese, sour cream, bacon, and green onions. Bake the tater tots until golden and crispy, season them, then add the toppings. Leftovers store well, so you can enjoy them the next day.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Tater Tots
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad
![A glass bowl of jalapeño popper chicken salad ingredients.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Jalapeno-Popper-Chicken-Salad.jpg)
This Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad is perfect for busy school nights. It brings the flavors of jalapeño poppers into a simple salad that’s quick to whip up. Make it ahead and have it ready for those hectic weekdays. Pair it with some whole grain crackers or fresh veggies for an easy meal.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad
Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner
![Sausage and veggies sheet pan dinner with a spoon.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Sausage-And-Veggies-Sheet-Pan-Dinner-rotated.jpg)
This Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner is great for a busy evening, ready in just 30 minutes. The sausage and veggies roast together on one pan, making clean-up a breeze. Serve it with a side of rice or some crusty bread to round out the meal. Super convenient for meal prep or a quick family dinner.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner
Canned Chicken Patties
![Chicken patties with broccoli on a plate.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Canned-Chicken-Patties-rotated.jpg)
These Canned Chicken Patties are great for busy school nights. Whipped up in only 20 minutes, they can be served on their own, with your favorite steamed veggies, or on bread as a sandwich. Kids will love them, and they’re quick and easy for parents.
Get the Recipe: Canned Chicken Patties
Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice
![Creamy ground beef skillet with cauliflower rice with a wooden spoon.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Creamy-Ground-Beef-Skillet-with-Cauliflower-Rice-rotated.jpg)
This Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice is perfect for weeknight dinners. Made in just one pan and ready in 30 minutes, it features ground beef, shredded cheddar cheese, cauliflower rice, and mushrooms. It’s a simple, hearty meal that kids will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice
Chicken Corn Soup
![Two bowls of chicken corn soup garnished with parsley.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Chicken-Corn-Soup-rotated.jpg)
Chicken Corn Soup is a great option for a quick meal that can be made in one pot. Ready in less than an hour, this soup has tender chicken and hearty vegetables, perfect for those busy nights. Serve it with a side salad or some garlic bread to make it more filling.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Corn Soup
Creamy Garlic Chicken
![A white skillet of creamy garlic chicken garnished with herbs.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Creamy-Garlic-Chicken-rotated.jpg)
Creamy Garlic Chicken is a one-pan meal that you can whip up in just 30 minutes. The chicken breasts are cooked in a creamy sauce made with Parmesan cheese, garlic, and heavy cream. Serve it over pasta or with a side of steamed veggies. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something quick.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole
![A casserole dish filled with pasta and peas.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Easy-Tuna-Noodle-Casserole-1.jpg)
This Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole is perfect for weeknight family meals. Taking less than an hour to make, it’s straightforward to prepare and reheats well. Serve it with a side of steamed veggies or a fresh salad. Leftovers make for a convenient meal the next day.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole
Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon
![Roasted butternut squash with cauliflower and bacon and dollops of sour cream with a spoon.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Roasted-Cubed-Butternut-Squash-With-Cauliflower-And-Bacon-rotated.jpg)
This Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon is great for busy school nights. Cubed butternut squash and cauliflower florets are baked with red onion, bacon, and spinach. Tossed in a homemade dressing and topped with sour cream, it’s a hearty meal kids will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
![A plate of garlic butter chicken bites.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Garlic-Butter-Chicken-Bites.jpg)
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are cooked to perfection on the stovetop, resulting in bite-sized pieces of juicy, tender chicken in a buttery garlic sauce. This easy-to-make recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a hit for busy nights when you need something quick and high in protein. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables, a simple green salad, or rice.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole
![Stuffed bell pepper casserole in a pan with a wooden spoon.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Stuffed-Bell-Pepper-Casserole.jpg)
This Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole is a great one-pot weeknight dinner. Easy enough for beginner cooks, it comes together in just 45 minutes and makes a filling, flavorful family meal. No need to stuff vegetables, just enjoy the taste. Pair it with a simple side salad or some garlic bread. Leftovers reheat well, making for an easy lunch the next day.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole
Broccoli Casserole
![A casserole dish with broccoli and cheese in it.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Broccoli-Casserole.jpg)
Broccoli Casserole is a delicious family dinner option that comes together in only 50 minutes. It’s easy to make and great for beginner cooks or anyone who doesn’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen. Pair it with some grilled chicken or fish. It also makes good leftovers, perfect for a quick lunch.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole
Tuna Egg Salad
![A close-up of a bowl of tuna egg salad mixed with celery, onions, and dill, topped with freshly ground black pepper, with a spoon placed on the side.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Tuna-Egg-Salad-3.jpg)
This Tuna Egg Salad is a delicious, easy-to-make meal ready in only 25 minutes. Great for a quick dinner or a make-ahead lunch, it combines hard-boiled eggs, canned albacore tuna, Greek yogurt, celery, red onion, pickles, and seasonings. It’s a creamy, protein-packed salad perfect for any meal. Serve it on whole grain bread, with crackers, or over a bed of greens.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Egg Salad
Creamy Italian Sausage Soup
![Creamy Italian sausage soup in a pot with a spoon and garnishes on the side.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Creamy-Italian-Sausage-Soup.jpg)
Creamy Italian Sausage Soup is a one-pot dish that can be made in 30 minutes. With Italian sausage, cream cheese, canned tomatoes, and heavy cream, it’s a great choice for a busy night. Serve with some bread for a complete meal the whole family will love.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Italian Sausage Soup
Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach
![Cheesy beef casserole with cauliflower rice and spinach being spooned out of a baking dish.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Cheesy-Beef-Casserole-With-Cauliflower-Rice-And-Spinach-7.jpg)
Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach is perfect for weeknight dinners and ready in only 30 minutes. With ground beef, cauliflower rice, spinach, and cheddar cheese, this casserole is filling and full of flavor. Kids will enjoy it, and parents will appreciate the ease.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach
Keto Chicken Nuggets
![Keto chicken nuggets on a plate with a cup of dipping sauce.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Keto-Chicken-Nuggets-rotated.jpg)
Keto Chicken Nuggets are an easy recipe ready in 30 minutes. The nuggets are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of flavor. Made with canned chicken and breaded in crushed pork rinds, they’re a kid-friendly option that’s quick and simple to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Keto Chicken Nuggets
Chicken Pot Pie Soup
![Chicken pot pie soup in a white bowl with a spoon.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Chicken-Pot-Pie-Soup-1.jpg)
Chicken Pot Pie Soup is a one-pot recipe that’s hearty and creamy. Easy to make with straightforward ingredients, it yields a comforting meal perfect for family dinner. Ready in just 1 hour, it’s great for those busy school nights.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Creamy Dijon Chicken
![A pan of creamy dijon chicken with herbs and bacon.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Creamy-Dijon-Chicken-rotated.jpg)
Creamy Dijon Chicken is a quick and easy one-pan meal ready in 30 minutes. The chicken is cooked to perfection and topped with a creamy Dijon mustard sauce, spinach, and bacon. It’s a flavorful dish that will please everyone in the family.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Dijon Chicken
Chicken Tortellini Soup
![A bowl of chicken tortellini soup with vegetables and herbs.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Chicken-Tortellini-Soup-rotated.jpg)
Chicken Tortellini Soup is extra easy to make and comes together in just one pot in 40 minutes. It’s nutrient-dense, filling, and perfect for weeknight dinners when you need something quick and hearty. Serve it with some crusty bread or a side salad. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheats well for another meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortellini Soup
Twice Baked Potato Casserole
![Twice baked potato casserole with bacon and green onions.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Twice-Baked-Potato-Casserole.jpg)
Twice Baked Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. With ingredients like bacon, potatoes, sour cream, and cheddar cheese, it’s simple to make and can easily be prepared in advance. Perfect for a cozy family dinner on a busy night.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole
White Bean Soup
![A bowl of white bean soup with carrots and croutons.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/White-Bean-Soup-rotated.jpg)
White Bean Soup is a one-pot recipe that comes together in just 40 minutes. It’s easy enough for weeknight dinners and is a great way to get some extra fiber and veggies into your meal. Pair it with some whole grain bread or a side of roasted veggies. Leftovers can be enjoyed the next day for a quick and healthy lunch.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup