Here are 30 recipe ideas for family dinners this week

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Looking for some solid recipe ideas for family dinners this week? We’ve handpicked 30 recipes that are just right for those hectic weeknights. Simple, quick, and absolutely great for the family, these recipes are all about making your life easier. From hearty casseroles to easy-prep bites, there’s a little something for every day.

A bowl of chicken pot pie soup being scooped with a spoon.
Chicken Pot Pie Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Spinach Chicken Bake

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

Kick off your week with a comforting and simple dish ready in just half an hour. This Spinach and Chicken Casserole combines tender chicken thighs, creamy spinach, cream cheese, and mozzarella in one pan. It’s a breeze to prepare and even easier to clean up — perfect for those evenings when you need a quick and warm meal.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Chicken Bake

Cabbage and Sausage

A fork in a bowl of cabbage and sausage.
Cabbage and Sausage. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

On nights when you need a quick but enjoyable dinner, turn to this Hearty Cabbage and Sausage Skillet. It’s the epitome of easy cooking: one pan, less than 30 minutes, and minimal ingredients. Cabbage, when paired with savory sausage, transforms into a deliciously hearty meal that’s sure to please everyone. This dish is the perfect solution for those evenings when time is short, but you still want a filling meal.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage

Crock Pot Taco Soup

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

Set yourself up for a relaxing start to the week with this effortless Crock Pot Taco Soup. With just 20 minutes of prep, you’ll brown the ingredients, add everything in the pot, and let your slow cooker do the rest. This dish is perfect for those days when you want the comfort of a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Taco Soup

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Loaded broccoli cauliflower casserole in a baking dish garnished with green onions.
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This dish brings a comforting blend of broccoli, cauliflower, cheese, and bacon to your family table. With its easy preparation and baking, this casserole is delicious and allows you to customize it to your family’s liking. It’s a fuss-free recipe ready in 30 minutes, making it perfect for a no-stress start to the week.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Chicken bites with garlic butter and herbs on a plate.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a great recipe for a family dinner, especially when time is limited. Ready in just 20 minutes, these bites are cooked to perfection in a simple yet flavorful butter and garlic sauce.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Twice baked potato casserole with bacon and green onions.
Twice Baked Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Twice Baked Potato Casserole is a heartwarming dish perfect for starting the week. It combines potatoes, bacon, sour cream, and cheese, creating a meal that’s both comforting and filling. Easy to prepare, it can even be made in advance, so you can have a warm meal ready for everyone to enjoy come dinnertime.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

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

This casserole takes the familiar flavors of stuffed bell peppers and makes them easier to prepare for a family dinner. It’s a great dish for busy weeknights, ready in 45 minutes without the extra work of stuffing peppers. This casserole is a perfect way to serve a hearty meal that everyone at the table will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Chicken Pot Pie Soup

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

When you need a warming and hearty meal, this Chicken Pot Pie Soup is just right. It’s prepared in a single pot and can be served in just an hour, so you can enjoy the familiar comfort of chicken pot pie in a more convenient soup form. It’s a great way to enjoy a home-cooked meal that’s both easy and enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers

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

For a fun and quick weeknight dinner, try these Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers. They’re easy to bake in the oven, and you can whip up the homemade ranch dressing using common pantry items. The entire recipe is ready in under an hour, making it a great choice for a light yet flavorful family meal or as a party appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers

Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole

Hash brown breakfast casserole in a white dish with a wooden spoon.
Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Shake up your dinner routine with this breakfast-for-dinner casserole. It combines hash browns, bacon, eggs, and cheese, providing a filling and customizable meal. It can be made ahead of time and is great for weekly meal planning. Assemble it the night before, and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.
Get the Recipe: Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole

Chicken Corn Soup

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

For a simple and nourishing meal, this Chicken Corn Soup is perfect. You can have it ready in under an hour, combining chicken, vegetables, and a creamy broth. It’s an easy choice for any family dinner, especially when you want to start the week smoothly.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Corn Soup

Sausage Curry

Sausage curry with rice in a bowl with a fork.
Sausage Curry. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Try this Sausage Curry for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. The recipe involves cooking sausages and vegetables in a rich and creamy curry sauce, all in one pan. It’s a great way to serve a warm and hearty meal to your family with minimal fuss.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Curry

Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

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

Begin your week with this warm and cozy vegetable soup featuring sweet potatoes and red peppers. Ready in just an hour, it’s a smooth and hearty option for your family. You’ll love how this soup brings a sense of calm to your evening, perfect for those nights when you need a comforting meal with minimal effort. It’s a simple, one-pot recipe that effortlessly fits your busy schedule.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

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.

Turn to this Beef and Cauliflower Rice Skillet for a hearty meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes. This one-pan dish perfectly combines beef, cheese, and cauliflower rice, creating a filling dinner that’s great for busy evenings. It’s a practical choice for a nutritious family meal, helping you smoothly transition into the new week.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

A pot of soup with parmesan cheese and parsley.
Creamy Italian Sausage Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This comforting creamy sausage soup is a great way to ease into your week. In just 30 minutes, this soup brings together Italian sausage in a creamy base, creating a soothing and uncomplicated meal. Make this recipe for nights when you need to get a warm dinner on the table quickly.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Italian Sausage 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.

Make your weeknights easier with this Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner. It’s a wholesome, 30-minute meal combining roasted sausage and a medley of vegetables. The roasting caramelizes everything and brings out the natural flavors of the vegetables and sausage. Also, you only need one sheet pan to cook everything, meaning no pile of dishes to go through after.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Canned Chicken Patties

A plate with broccoli and chicken patties on it.
Canned Chicken Patties. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

For a fast and straightforward dinner, try these Canned Chicken Patties. They only take 20 minutes to make, using canned chicken for convenience. Whether enjoyed alone, in sandwiches, or with a salad, these patties are a versatile addition to your weekly dinner rotation.
Get the Recipe: Canned Chicken Patties

Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Chicken with creamy mushroom sauce in a pan.
Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Ease into your week with this simple chicken and mushroom skillet. This 30-minute meal combines juicy chicken with a smooth mushroom sauce in a single pan for convenience. This dish is a great choice for a quick, comforting meal to start your busy week.
Get the Recipe: Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Fajita Baked Chicken

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

Here’s another recipe to start off your week right. Made in just one baking dish, this hearty bake combines chicken with the flavors of sweet peppers and cheese. Ready in 30 minutes, this cozy dinner is a perfect go-to, whether you’re pinched for time or just don’t feel like spending cooking all night.
Get the Recipe: Fajita Baked Chicken

Creamy Garlic Chicken

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

In about 30 minutes, you can enjoy chicken simmered in a rich garlic cream sauce. This dish strikes the right balance between simplicity and flavor, making it a great choice for a seamless transition into your workweek. It’s also very beginner-friendly — perfect for anyone looking for a quick, delicious meal to start their week smoothly.
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.

Warm up tonight with this Hungarian mushroom soup. Ready in just 45 minutes, it blends a variety of mushrooms and spices for a comforting, flavorful soup. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for bringing everyone together — it’s hearty, creamy, and a great way to add more veggies to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Hungarian Mushroom 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.

Begin your week with this cheesy beef and cauliflower rice casserole. In about 30 minutes, this dish combines beef, cauliflower rice, spinach, and cheese. It’s perfect for a cozy family meal, setting a welcoming tone for the new week.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Tuscan garlic shrimp and spinach with tomatoes in a pan.
Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This one-pan meal combines the rich flavors of garlic, tomatoes, and spinach with perfectly cooked shrimp. This dish is very easy to make, making it a great choice for busy weeknights. Even if cooking isn’t your forte, you’ll find this recipe easy and rewarding.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

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

Here’s a dish that’s sure to brighten up your evening: chicken cooked in a rich, creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes. This dish is a great choice for those hectic weeknights. It only takes 30 minutes from start to finish, and everything cooks in one pan. Serve it with either rice or pasta for a hearty meal that starts your week right.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

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

For a lighter yet filling dinner, try this spicy chicken salad. With just 20 minutes of prep, it comes together quickly and can even be prepared in advance. The combination of spicy jalapeños, creamy mayo, and tender chicken makes it a great addition to your weekly meal plan. It’s the perfect recipe for a no-stress family meal.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Fried cabbage with bacon garnished with parsley in a pot.
Fried Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Ready in just 25 minutes, this cabbage and bacon stir-fry is a straightforward and delicious dish. It’s a perfect option for anyone new to cooking, as it’s super easy to make. You’ll saute the ingredients together and then season to taste — that’s it. Plus, with everything made in one skillet, cleanup is as easy as cooking, making this a great dish to start off your week.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Big Mac Salad

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

This dish turns the classic fast-food flavors into a healthier salad. Made with lettuce, ground beef, and a homemade special sauce, it’s a simple, easy recipe that’s great for beginners. It’s a great choice for quick weeknight dinners or weekday lunches, and the leftovers taste just as good the next day.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Salad

Wild Rice Mushroom Soup

A bowl of wild rice mushroom soup with a spoon.
Wild Rice Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

A great choice for a family meal, this Wild Rice Mushroom Soup combines rich flavors and is easy to make. It saves time with the rice cooking alongside the other ingredients, making it a practical option for a quick dinner.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Mushroom Soup

Pollo Asado

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

This Pollo Asado is a great recipe for a family dinner. It features chicken thighs marinated in a mix of cilantro, onion, orange juice, and lime juice. You can cook the chicken on the grill, in a grill pan, or in the oven, making it a versatile and straightforward option for any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Pollo Asado

Shawarma Kebabs

A plate of shawarma kebabs with greens and lemon slices.
Shawarma Kebabs. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Shawarma Kebabs are a perfect dinner idea for a busy week. They are simple to prepare and bake in the oven. This recipe is a great way to serve a flavorful, high-protein meal to your family without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Shawarma Kebabs

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