End your dinner rut tonight with these 17 easy meal ideas

Photo of author

| Published:

If you want to break free from your usual dinner routine and need easy meal ideas, you’re in the right place. Finding that balance between simplicity and flavor is essential after a long day, and that’s exactly what these recipes aim to deliver. These 17 recipes are designed to help you end your dinner rut as easily as possible. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting in the kitchen, these recipes provide a flavorful break from your usual meals.

A bowl of sweet potato and red pepper soup with sour cream and parsley.
Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

A fork with cheesy broccoli on it being pulled up from a loaded broccoli cauliflower casserole.
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

End your dinner rut tonight with the Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole. It simplifies your evening with a mix of broccoli, cauliflower, cheese, and bacon, all baked together for a complete meal in 30 minutes. It’s a godsend for those seeking uncomplicated cooking routines and easy cleanup. This casserole is also great for meal prep, as it reheats well.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Crock Pot Taco Soup

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

Experience a relaxed evening with the Crock Pot Taco Soup, requiring only 20 minutes of prep. This hearty, flavor-packed meal relies on ground beef and pantry staples, ensuring minimal kitchen time. A single pot makes for a cozy, hassle-free dinner with straightforward cleanup. Leftovers can be frozen for future meals.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Taco Soup

Spinach Chicken Bake

A serving spoon serving of creamy spinach chicken bake.
Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

For a balanced meal without the fuss, turn to the Spinach Chicken Bake. Combining chicken, cheese, and spinach in one pan, it’s a quick and easy option. It’s a snap to prepare, offering a blend of protein and greens with minimal cleanup, making it a stress-free dinner choice. This recipe can be easily customized with your favorite seasonings.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Chicken Bake

Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

A bowl of sweet potato and red pepper soup with sour cream and parsley.
Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Enjoy the comforting Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup, prepared in only one hour. Ideal for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends, this creamy one-pot dish provides a cozy dinner option. Prepare a generous batch and store extra servings in the freezer for convenient, quick lunches later on.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

Cabbage and Sausage

A pan of cabbage and sausage garnished with fresh herbs.
Cabbage and Sausage. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Opt for this Cabbage and Sausage dish when you want an easy-to-clean-up meal in under 30 minutes. It’s a filling, flavorful option that requires just one pan, making it perfect for a hassle-free evening of cooking and relaxation. Try using different sausage flavors for variety.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage

Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Creamy ground beef skillet with cauliflower rice garnished with fresh herbs with a fork.
Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Combine ground beef and cauliflower rice in a skillet, and in 30 minutes, you have an effortless dinner with no need for additional sides. The Creamy Ground Beef Skillet offers simplicity and flavor, making it a go-to choice for a low-effort weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Creamy Garlic Chicken

A white skillet of creamy garlic chicken garnished with herbs.
Creamy Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Enjoy a quick but flavorful dinner with Creamy Garlic Chicken. In just 30 minutes and one skillet, you can transform chicken thighs and sun-dried tomatoes into a comforting meal. It’s a lifesaver for busy evenings, with easy cleanup to match. Serve over pasta or rice for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Hungarian Mushroom Soup

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

This Hungarian Mushroom Soup is ready in a single pot in just 45 minutes, making it a perfect pick for both weeknight dinners and leisurely weekends. With its easy steps, this soup is a hit for cooks of all skill levels. Try adding a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
Get the Recipe: Hungarian Mushroom Soup

Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Sausage and veggies sheet pan dinner with a spoon.
Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Simplify your dinner plans with the Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner. Toss everything on one pan and bake for about 30 minutes to enjoy a hearty, nutritious, and straightforward meal. It’s perfect for those who prefer uncomplicated cooking and cleanup. Experiment with different seasoning blends for a twist.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Chicken Corn Soup

Two bowls of chicken corn soup garnished with parsley.
Chicken Corn Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

When you want something nourishing and quick, try this Chicken Corn Soup — a one-pot wonder ready in under an hour. Featuring tender chicken and a medley of vegetables, it’s simple, wholesome fare with manageable cleanup. Customize the veggies based on what you have on hand.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Corn Soup

Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

A casserole dish with meat and spinach in it.
Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

The Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach offers a straightforward route to a well-rounded meal. In just 30 minutes, you get a simple, flavorful dinner without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. Use your preferred cheese for extra flavor.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

Canned Chicken Patties

Chicken patties with broccoli on a plate.
Canned Chicken Patties. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Prepare Canned Chicken Patties in just 20 minutes, offering a quick and stress-free answer to “What’s for dinner?” They’re versatile, pair easily with various sides, and leave you with plenty of time for your evening activities. Create a dipping sauce to add extra flavor.
Get the Recipe: Canned Chicken Patties

Italian Sausage Soup

Creamy Italian sausage soup in a pot with a spoon and garnishes on the side.
Italian Sausage Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Italian Sausage Soup combines simplicity and flavor in a single pot in just 30 minutes. With Italian sausage, heavy cream, and canned tomatoes, it’s an ideal choice for those seeking a quick, hearty meal with minimal fuss. Try adding some fresh herbs for a burst of freshness.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sausage Soup

Fajita Baked Chicken

Cheesy chicken fajita bake in a baking pan.
Fajita Baked Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Fajita Baked Chicken is a quick recipe made with chicken, cream cheese, and sweet peppers. It’s a flavorful, straightforward dish perfect for beginner cooks and those short on time. Customize the spice level to suit your taste.
Get the Recipe: Fajita Baked Chicken

Big Mac Salad

Hands scooping up a serving of bacon cheeseburger salad from a bowl.
Big Mac Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Why complicate dinner when you can have a Big Mac Salad? This recipe offers familiar flavors without the complexity. It’s a customizable, complete meal that’s ready quickly, perfect for those who prefer minimal kitchen time. Top with your favorite salad dressing.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Salad

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

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

Add some spice to your dinner routine with Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole. With chicken, bacon, cream cheese, and jalapeños, it’s a simple yet hearty dish ready in no time. Minimal cooking and cleaning make it a win-win for laid-back cooks. Serve with a side of sour cream for extra creaminess.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

Creamy sun dried tomato chicken served on a plate.
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Get dinner on the table effortlessly with Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken. Using just one skillet, it pairs chicken thighs with a sun-dried tomato sauce in 30 minutes. It’s convenient for those looking for a simple-to-make dish without sacrificing flavor. Serve over pasta or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.