17 dinner ideas to delight and inspire

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Are you tired of pondering over what to cook for dinner every night? This post is here to help! We’ve got 17 easy yet delicious dinner ideas. They’re perfect for your busy lifestyle. We’ve picked recipes that are not only quick to prepare but also pack a punch in terms of flavor. Whether you’re feeding a family, cooking for one, or anything in between, these meals are designed to take the stress out of your evening routine.

From cheesy stuffed shells to perfect pasta soups to slow cooker recipes, we’ve got your family covered. Pick your favorites and peruse the pantry. And make a meal plan, do that shopping, and get prepped for dinnertime. Fresh recipes will inspire everyone!

A line of stuffed chicken breasts on a white platter.
Stuffed Chicken. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Slow Cooker Butternut Soup

A creamy, comforting soup made with butternut squash and a blend of spices, cooked slowly to enhance the flavors. It’s perfect for chilly days, offering a smooth and velvety texture.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Butternut Soup

Oven Fried Chicken

Breaded with seasoned breadcrumbs, this chicken is baked in the oven to achieve a crispy exterior. It’s a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken, offering a satisfying crunch.
Get the Recipe: Oven Fried Chicken

A bowl of chili topped with avocado and peppers.
Hearty Pumpkin Chili. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Hearty Pumpkin Chili

This chili combines traditional ingredients with the addition of pumpkin, lending a subtle sweetness and extra richness. It’s a hearty dish perfect for fall and winter months.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Pumpkin Chili

Meatball Subs

Juicy meatballs smothered in a rich marinara sauce, served on a toasted sub roll and topped with melted cheese. It’s a filling and satisfying meal that’s easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Subs

Oven Baked Blackened Chicken Thighs

These chicken thighs are coated in a flavorful, spicy rub and baked to perfection. The result is a juicy interior with a charred, flavorful exterior.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Chicken Thighs

A crock pot filled with beef and peppers.
Slow Cooker Pepper Steak. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

Strips of steak and bell peppers cooked slowly in a savory, garlic-infused sauce. This dish is tender and flavorful, perfect for a fuss-free dinner.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

Stuffed Chicken

Chicken breasts stuffed with a variety of fillings like cheese, herbs, and vegetables, then baked. This dish is versatile and perfect for an impressive yet easy meal.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Chicken

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

A comforting soup featuring tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and vegetables in a creamy broth. It’s a warm and hearty choice for a satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Wild rice and mushroom soup in a white bowl with sprigs of sage.
Creamy Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Creamy Mushroom and Wild Rice Soup

A rich and earthy soup made with a variety of mushrooms and wild rice. It’s creamy, filling, and perfect for mushroom lovers.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mushroom Soup

Stuffed shell in a spoon with mozzarella cheese stretching.
Stuffed Shells. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Stuffed Shells

Large pasta shells filled with a cheesy mixture, covered in tomato sauce, and baked until bubbly. It’s a classic Italian dish that’s both comforting and hearty.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Shells

Easy Chicken and Dumplings

A simple, home-style dish featuring tender chicken and soft dumplings in a savory broth. It’s a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken and Dumplings

Stuffing and pork chops in a frying pan.
Pork Chops and Stuffing Casserole. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Pork Chops and Stuffing Casserole

Juicy pork chops baked with a layer of flavorful stuffing. This casserole is a satisfying combination of meat and savory bread dressing.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops and Stuffing Casserole

Lasagna Soup in a large orange pot with bowls next to it.
Lasagna Soup. Photo Credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Lasagne Soup

All the flavors of lasagna in a soup form, with noodles, meat, tomatoes, and cheese. It’s a novel and comforting take on the classic pasta dish.
Get the Recipe: Lasagne Soup

Sausage Tortellini Soup

A hearty soup with Italian sausage, cheese-filled tortellini, and vegetables in a flavorful broth. It’s a filling and delicious meal in a bowl.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Tortellini Soup

Creamy chicken in a cast iron skillet with capers.
Chicken Piccata. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Chicken Piccata

Chicken breast cutlets are quickly browned and cooked in a light lemon-caper sauce. This dish is tangy and refreshing, a classic Italian meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

Slow Cooker Pot Roast

A traditional pot roast cooked slowly with carrots, potatoes, and onions. The beef becomes incredibly tender, making it a comforting and easy dinner.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pot Roast

Cheesy mexican meatballs in a skillet.
Enchilada Meatballs. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Enchilada Meatballs

Meatballs with the flavors of enchiladas, cooked in a savory sauce. They’re a fun twist on traditional meatballs, great for a hearty meal or as an appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Enchilada Meatballs

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