20 effortless main dishes that are perfect for summer

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Are you ready to simplify your summer cooking routine? Check out our effortless main dishes, perfect for warm summer days and laid-back evenings. From quick sheet pan dinners to flavorful slow cooker meals, these recipes are designed to help you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the sunshine with your loved ones. So, whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a delicious yet hassle-free meal, I’ve got you covered with these easy and satisfying dishes.

Baked salmon fillet garnished with herbs, served with asparagus, zucchini, peppers, and onions on a white plate.
Sheet Pan Salmon and Vegetables. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

Pouring savory sauce over a bowl of rice topped with beef and bell peppers.
Slow Cooker Pepper Steak. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Slow Cooker Pepper Steak offers an effortless main dish option perfect for summer dining. With simple preparation and the convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe allows you to enjoy tender beef and vibrant peppers without spending hours in the kitchen. Ideal for busy days or when you want to keep the heat out of the kitchen, this dish delivers on flavor and convenience. Gather your ingredients, set it, and forget it, for a delicious meal that’s ready when you are.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

Close-up of an air-fried barbecued rib with charred edges over a white plate.
Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs provide a hassle-free way to enjoy tender and flavorful ribs without firing up the grill. Ideal for summer cookouts or weeknight dinners, these ribs are cooked to perfection in the air fryer, cutting down on cooking time and cleanup. With minimal effort required, you can achieve mouthwatering ribs with a crispy exterior and juicy interior that will satisfy your summer cravings with ease. Say goodbye to long hours of grilling and hello to delicious ribs in a fraction of the time.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

Baked Lemon Butter Fish

Baked lemon butter fish fillet seasoned with herbs and spices, garnished with lemon slices and chopped parsley,.
Baked Lemon Butter Fish. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Baked Lemon Butter Fish offers a light and refreshing main dish option that’s perfect for summer meals. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick baking time, this dish is ideal for busy days when you want something delicious without the fuss. The combination of tangy lemon and rich butter enhances the delicate flavor of the fish, creating a delightful culinary experience. Whether served with a side salad or roasted vegetables, this Baked Lemon Butter Fish is sure to become a summertime favorite.
Get the Recipe: Baked Lemon Butter Fish

Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

Serving of buffalo chicken pasta bake with casserole dish.
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake combines the flavors of spicy buffalo chicken with creamy pasta for a satisfying summer meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or potluck dinners, this dish is easy to prepare and sure to please a crowd. With minimal ingredients and a short baking time, you can enjoy the bold flavors of buffalo chicken in a comforting pasta bake that’s both effortless and delicious. Get ready to indulge in a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any summer occasion.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos in Crock Pot

Two tacos on a plate with a bowl of guacamole.
Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos in Crock Pot. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos in Crock Pot offer a convenient and flavorful meal option for summer gatherings or busy weeknights. With tender shredded chicken cooked to perfection in the slow cooker, these tacos are a breeze to prepare with minimal effort required. Whether you’re hosting a taco night with friends or craving an easy dinner solution, these chicken tacos deliver on taste and convenience. Simply set it and forget it, then enjoy delicious tacos filled with your favorite toppings for a memorable summer meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos in Crock Pot

Breaded Panko Pork Chops

Panko pork chop on plate with greens.
Breaded Panko Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Breaded Panko Pork Chops offer a simple yet flavorful main dish option that’s perfect for summer dining. With crispy breadcrumbs coating tender pork chops, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight meal, these breaded pork chops are a delicious and hassle-free choice. Enjoy the satisfying crunch of these pork chops paired with your favorite sides for a memorable summer dinner.
Get the Recipe: Breaded Panko Pork Chops

Ground Pork Stir Fry

A plate with ground pork and vegetables on top of cauliflower rice.
Ground Pork Stir Fry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Ground Pork Stir Fry is a quick and easy main dish option that’s perfect for busy summer evenings. With a medley of colorful vegetables and savory ground pork, this stir-fry offers a satisfying meal in minutes. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this recipe is versatile and adaptable to suit your taste preferences. Say goodbye to takeout and hello to homemade goodness with this effortless and delicious ground pork stir fry.
Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Stir Fry

Frito Chili Pie

A plate of Fritos topped with ground beef, cheese, tomatoes, beans, and green onions.
Frito Chili Pie. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Frito Chili Pie is a fun and flavorful main dish option that’s perfect for casual summer gatherings or family dinners. With layers of crunchy Fritos, hearty chili, and gooey cheese, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or simply want a comforting meal that’s easy to make, Frito Chili Pie delivers on taste and simplicity. Whip up a batch of this nostalgic favorite for a delicious and satisfying summer meal everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Frito Chili Pie

Air Fryer Chicken Legs

Close-up of a crispy air fried chicken drumstick on a white plate garnished with parsley, with hot sauce in the background.
Air Fryer Chicken Legs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air Fryer Chicken Legs provide a simple and delicious main dish option that’s perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners. With minimal ingredients and a quick cooking time in the air fryer, these chicken legs are juicy and flavorful. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or a cozy dinner at home, these air fryer chicken legs offer a convenient and tasty meal solution. Say goodbye to dry chicken and hello to perfectly cooked chicken legs with this effortless recipe.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Legs

Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

A bowl of rice and chicken in front of a crockpot.
Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken offers a taste of the tropics with minimal effort, making it ideal for summer gatherings or busy weeknights. With its sweet and tangy sauce and tender chicken, this dish is sure to transport you to paradise with every bite. Simply set it and forget it in the crockpot, allowing you to enjoy the flavors of summer without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve this Hawaiian-inspired chicken with your favorite sides for a delicious and effortless meal experience.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

Braised Short Ribs

A close-up of braised short ribs in a tomato-based sauce, garnished with herbs.
Braised Short Ribs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Braised Short Ribs offer a rich and savory main dish option perfect for summer gatherings or special occasions. With tender, fall-off-the-bone meat and a flavorful sauce, these ribs are sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or a cozy dinner party, these braised short ribs are easy to prepare and guaranteed to be a hit. Indulge in the hearty flavors of this classic dish as you create unforgettable summer memories with friends and family.
Get the Recipe: Braised Short Ribs

Shrimp Macaroni Salad

Shrimp macaroni salad in a pink bowl with lemon wedges.
Shrimp Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Shrimp Macaroni Salad is a light and refreshing main dish option perfect for summer picnics or potlucks. With its creamy dressing, tender pasta, and succulent shrimp, this salad is a complete meal in one bowl. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hosting a barbecue, this salad is easy to make and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Dive into the flavors of summer with every bite of this delicious shrimp macaroni salad.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Macaroni Salad

Baked Stuffed Pork Chops

A plate of pork chops stuffed with mushrooms and cheese served with green beans.
Baked Stuffed Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Baked Stuffed Pork Chops offer a hearty and satisfying main dish option perfect for summer dinners. With tender pork chops filled with flavorful stuffing, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or a dinner party, these baked pork chops are easy to prepare and always a hit. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic dish as you gather around the table with loved ones to celebrate the joys of summer.
Get the Recipe: Baked Stuffed Pork Chops

Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Chicken bacon ranch casserole in baking dish.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is a comforting and flavorful main dish option perfect for summer evenings. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, crispy bacon, and cheesy topping, this casserole is a complete meal in one dish. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or simply want a cozy night in, this casserole is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Indulge in the rich flavors of this classic dish as you unwind and enjoy the warmth of summer nights.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Crock Pot Chili for Two

Crock Pot Chili served in two white bowls with spoon.
Crock Pot Chili for Two. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Crock Pot Chili for Two offers a cozy and satisfying main dish option perfect for intimate summer dinners. With its rich and flavorful chili, this recipe is easy to make and guaranteed to warm you up on cool summer nights. Whether you’re cooking for a date night or a quiet evening at home, this chili is sure to hit the spot. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this classic comfort food as you relax and unwind in the summer breeze.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Chili for Two

Whole Chicken in Air Fryer

Roasted chicken with potatoes and carrots on a white plate.
Whole Chicken in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Whole Chicken in Air Fryer offers a juicy and flavorful main dish option perfect for summer barbecues or family dinners. With its crispy skin and tender meat, this chicken is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress. Get ready to enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of cooking a whole chicken in the air fryer this summer.
Get the Recipe: Whole Chicken in Air Fryer

Steak and Mushrooms with Balsamic Sauce

A plate with steak, tomatoes and cucumbers on it.
Steak and Mushrooms with Balsamic Sauce. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Steak and Mushrooms with Balsamic Sauce is a hearty and flavorful main dish option perfect for summer grilling. With juicy steak, tender mushrooms, and a tangy balsamic sauce, this recipe is sure to be a hit with meat lovers. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply want to enjoy a delicious meal at home, this dish is easy to prepare and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Indulge in the savory flavors of summer with every bite of this delicious steak and mushrooms.
Get the Recipe: Steak and Mushrooms with Balsamic Sauce

Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs

A piece of air fried chicken thigh on a fork, with a caramelized exterior and garnished with a small leaf, in focus against a blurred background of more chicken pieces.
Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs provide a quick and easy main dish option perfect for busy summer nights. With minimal prep and cooking time in the air fryer, these chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this recipe is sure to become a weeknight favorite. Enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of perfectly cooked chicken thighs with this effortless air fryer recipe.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs

Slow Cooker Pork Loin

Pork tenderloin on a cutting board next to a slow cooker.
Slow Cooker Pork Loin. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Slow Cooker Pork Loin is a convenient and flavorful main dish option perfect for effortless summer meals. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking in the slow cooker, this recipe allows you to enjoy tender and juicy pork loin without heating up the kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or a relaxed family dinner, this dish is sure to be a hit. Simply set it and forget it, then sit back and relax while the slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with a delicious and satisfying meal to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Loin

Sheet Pan Salmon and Vegetables

Baked salmon fillet with asparagus, zucchini, and bell peppers on a white plate, garnished with herbs.
Sheet Pan Salmon and Vegetables. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Sheet Pan Salmon and Vegetables offer a simple and nutritious main dish option perfect for summer evenings. With just one pan, you can create a complete meal with juicy salmon and flavorful roasted vegetables, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or a cozy dinner at home, this sheet pan recipe is easy to customize with your favorite veggies and seasonings. Enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of this effortless meal as you embrace the flavors of summer.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Salmon and Vegetables

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