17 easy sunday dinners for when you just need a break

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Sundays are for unwinding and pressing pause on the hustle of the past week. That’s the day when lengthy cooking feels out of place, but that craving for a home-cooked meal doesn’t quite fade away, does it? There’s a sweet spot – dishes that require just a touch of preparation before the kitchen takes over, doing the heavy lifting for you. You kick back, relax, and before you know it, dinner is ready to gather everyone around the table.

Sliced ham with oranges and mint.
Instant Pot Ham. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Salpicon de Res

Low angle shot of mini tostadas with salpicon de res or shredded beef salad on top.
Salpicon de Res. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If the thought of slow-cooked, tender shredded beef that’s been marinated in a tangy lime and spice blend appeals to you, then Salpicon de Res is the dish you want on your dinner table. Assembled with crisp fresh vegetables, it presents a refreshing mix that is both comforting and convenient. Especially on a weekend, when you prefer your kitchen time short and sweet, this dish is a fine choice. And the fact that it tastes even better after the flavors meld in the fridge is just an added bonus – if there are leftovers, that is.
Get the Recipe: Salpicon de Res

Chicken Biryani

Chicken biryani on a plate with raita.
Chicken Biryani. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Imagine tucking into Chicken Biryani, where each spoonful combines aromatic spices with tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice. Crafting this dish at home can swiftly fill the air with an aroma that might remind you of bustling Indian street markets, but with the convenience of not needing to leave your home. Whether hosting friends or just feeding the family, this one-pot wonder fits the bill for a heartening dinner, and the best part? It’s often even better the next day, assuming you’re lucky enough to snag some leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Biryani

Dan Dan Noodles

Dan dan noodles in a white bowl with chopsticks.
Dan Dan Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Nothing quite matches the simple satisfaction of a bowl of Dan Dan Noodles on an evening when time is short but the craving for something rich and complex isn’t. Packed with ground meat and a mix of vegetables, all coated in a glossy, spicy sauce, it’s a straightforward dish that stems from humble beginnings but promises restaurant-quality results. It’s the kind of no-stress, high-flavor meal you need for a relaxed end to your weekend – because who says you can’t have it all?
Get the Recipe: Dan Dan Noodles

Chilaquiles

Stack of air fryer pork belly strips in hoisin glaze.
Air Fryer Pork Belly. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For a dish that feels both innovative and familiar, give Chilaquiles a try. This traditional Mexican staple uses everyday ingredients, like tortillas, salsa, and cheese, and can be whipped up in a flash, especially if you take advantage of pre-made chips and salsa. Add some protein to the mix and you’ve transformed what is traditionally a breakfast dish into a comforting evening meal. Quick, uncomplicated, and delicious, it’s the perfect choice when your evening calls for good food with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Chilaquiles

Camarones a la Diabla

shrimp in red chile sauce on a white plate with lime wedges in the background.
Camarones a la Diabla. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When you’re looking to add a little excitement to your dinner lineup, Camarones a la Diabla brings the heat with its fiery sauce cladding tender shrimp. It’s deceptively straightforward to cook up, so you can impress with bold flavors without being chained to the stove. Serve it up with either rice or warm tortillas to balance out the spiciness, and enjoy a meal that feels celebratory, whether it’s a special occasion or just the close of a long week.
Get the Recipe: Camarones a la Diabla

Pork Fried Rice

Pork fried rice in a blue and white striped bowl.
Pork Fried Rice. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If comfort had a flavor, it would taste a lot like Pork Fried Rice. Simple yet versatile, it transforms leftover rice, veggies, and protein into a meal that’s brilliant in taste and texture. With virtually no fuss and a single pot, this quick stir-fry offers an effortless end to your weekend. Essentially, it’s your entire dinner, nestled in one flavorful pan.
Get the Recipe: Pork Fried Rice

Thai Larb

Low angle shot of a striped bowl filled with Thai larb salad garnished with shallot slices.
Thai Larb. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Bold, punchy, and ready in no time – that’s Thai Larb for you. The recipe doesn’t ask for much – just ground meat, few fresh herbs, a hit of lime, and a bit of heat. But the results? A vibrant salad so full of flavor, it’s the perfect close for a bustling weekend. Enjoy it with sticky rice or in lettuce wraps, and you’ve got a flavorful, shareable dish that’s sure to please.
Get the Recipe: Thai Larb

Samosas

Low angle shot of a samosa cut in half so that you can see the potato filling inside.
Samosas. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you’re up for some light cooking but don’t want to skimp on flavors, give Samosas a go. These petite pockets of spicy potatoes and peas are perfect as snacks or paired with your main dish. While traditional recipes may be time-consuming, contemporary adaptations ensure you won’t be left feeling overwhelmed. Get ready to bring some international flair to your dinner table with minimal stress.
Get the Recipe: Samosas

Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Beef bulgogi in a bowl with rice and cucumbers.
Beef Bulgogi Bowls. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Craving Korean BBQ but prefer staying home? Beef Bulgogi Bowls take that mouthwatering BBQ flavor you’re after, swirls it around tender marinated beef, and delivers it straight to your home dining table. Scoop it over a bed of rice and veggies and you have a no-stress dinner that still feels rather special.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Korean Bulgogi Tacos

Horizontal shot of 3 korean tacos: corn tortillas filled with sliced steak, kimchi and pico de gallo salsa, and chopped cilantro. In the background are lime wedges, sliced red cabbage, and cilantro leaves.
Korean Bulgogi Tacos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Mixing cuisines can sometimes result in surprisingly tasty combinations. Take Korean Bulgogi Tacos, which combine the sweet and spicy marinated beef of Korean cuisine and tuck them into classic taco shells. Toss on your preferred toppings and you’ve got a flavorful fusion that can light up a regular evening meal.
Get the Recipe: Korean Bulgogi Tacos

Instant Pot Ham

Sliced ham with oranges and mint.
Instant Pot Ham. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Cook a beautifully juicy, flavor-infused ham in a breeze, thanks to your trusty Instant Pot. It’s the kind of straightforward, set-and-forget recipe that results in a succulent main dish worth remembering. And the weekend becomes more relaxing when you have more time to unwind rather than monitoring the oven.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Ham

Lamb Kofta Kebabs

Lamb kofta kebabs on a wooden board with  fresh herbs and vegetables.
Lamb Kofta Kebabs. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Quick, easy, and laden with flavors – Lamb Kofta Kebabs bring a swirl of exotic spices right onto your dinner plate. Cook these skewers of delicious ground lamb to perfection either under the broiler or on the grill. Served with flatbread and dips, this is a flexible, yet impressive way to spice up your usual dinner routines.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Kofta Kebabs

Kung Pao Chicken

low angle shot of a bowl of kung pao chicken.
Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Treat yourself to a delectable slice of Chinese cuisine at home with Kung Pao Chicken. Tender chicken, crunchy peanuts, and a savory sauce strike a fine balance of textures and flavors. It’s a pinch of spicy, a touch of sweet, and all very satisfying, perfect for a simple yet special dinner at the end of your weekend.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Jewish Brisket

Low angle shot of sliced brisket on a white platter with dried apricots and salt in the background.
Jewish Brisket. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Nothing says comfort food quite like a slow-cooked, tender Jewish Brisket. Hours of slow cooking might sound daunting, but the prep is largely hands-off, allowing flavors to mingle and create a succulent dish that’s warm and filling. Take the stress out of your weekend cooking with this one-pot dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Get the Recipe: Jewish Brisket

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 nights when you want something quick, easy, and loaded with flavor, Gochujang Noodles is the dish to reach for. This spicy and savory noodle dish can be easily tailored with your favorite veggies or proteins. Take your typical weekend noodles from simple to spectacular with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Noodles

Thai Chicken Curry

low angle shot of a blue and white striped bowl filled with Thai chicken curry.
Thai Chicken Curry. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Warm, aromatic, and simply delicious – that’s Thai Chicken Curry for you. Prepared in a single pot with tender chicken, coconut milk, and curry paste, this dish creates a harmonious blend of flavors that’s both comforting and exciting. Bring the exotic flavors of Thailand to your dinner table, without the fuss or mess.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Curry

Char Siu

sliced char siu pork with lettuce leaves.
Char Siu. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For an easy and impressive addition to your dinner line-up, it’s hard to beat Char Siu. This Chinese BBQ pork is marinated in a sweet-savory sauce, then roasted or grilled to perfection. It’s surprisingly straightforward yet flavorful. Teamed with rice and seasonal veggies, it’s a complete meal that never fails to impress.
Get the Recipe: Char Siu

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