19 lazy dinners that are Mom-approved

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Lazy dinners might just be the best thing since sliced bread — especially when Mom gives them the thumbs up. We’ve got 19 of these classic champions that are perfect for those evenings when you’re pretty sure your stove is mocking you for not using it enough. Perfect for convincing the family you’ve got it all under control, with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Two shake and bake pork chops on a plate.
Shake and Bake Pork Chops. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

A casserole dish filled with tater tots, shredded chicken, and corn, topped with melted cheese and green onions.
Chicken Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Get a Chicken Tater Tot Casserole in the oven and ready in under an hour. It’s a great choice for comfort food that doesn’t break the bank. You can even prep it before you’re ready to cook, and if there’s any left, it freezes well for another day. It’s a straightforward dish that’s a crowd-pleaser for both kids and grown-ups, making it a top pick for an easy dinner that keeps everyone smiling. Moms will give this one the thumbs up for its simplicity and the break it gives them in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

A casserole dish filled with pasta and peas.
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole is a great pick when you’re looking to keep dinner prep on the easy side. In under an hour, you can have a comforting casserole that hits the spot, combining noodles, tuna, and cheese. It’s a hit for a casual dinner and the leftovers are perfect for the next day, making your life a little easier. Moms approve of this recipe for its convenience and the great taste that comes with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

Cabbage and Sausage

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

When you’re aiming for a no-hassle dinner, this Cabbage and Sausage recipe is a solid choice. It’s a straightforward meal that pairs well with your busiest days, needing only 25 minutes from start to finish. Moms love this one because it’s just a few simple steps to a hearty meal that gives you more downtime in the evening.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

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

For a meal that’s both easy and packed with good stuff, try whipping up a Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole. It’s on the table in 30 minutes and mixes broccoli, cauliflower, cheese, and bacon into something really satisfying. It’s a hit with moms because it’s a breeze to make and it’s a smart way to get more veggies onto the dinner plate.
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.

Lean on the Crock Pot Taco Soup for a great dinner that practically makes itself. Spend 20 minutes throwing in ingredients like beans, corn, and taco seasoning, then let the slow cooker work its magic. It’s perfect for those days when you’re running around and still want to come home to a meal that’s ready to eat. Moms love this one for its simplicity and the free time it gives back.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Taco Soup

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Stuffed bell pepper casserole in a pot.
Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

In just 45 minutes, you can get a Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole on the table. It’s packed with ground beef, bell peppers, rice, and tomatoes—all the flavors you know and love, just easier. This dish is a smart pick for a laid-back dinner that still packs in the nutrition and keeps everyone full.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

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.

When you’re aiming for minimal cleanup and a meal that’s good to go in a snap, the Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner is the way to go. Toss it all on one pan, pop it in the oven for 30 minutes, and you’ve got a great dinner ready. It’s a straightforward choice that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Shake and Bake Pork Chops

Shake and bake pork chops on a baking sheet.
Shake and Bake Pork Chops. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

If you’re looking for a quick dinner that’s easy to nail, these Shake and Bake Pork Chops are just the ticket. You can get them on the table in 25 minutes flat. They come out crispy and full of flavor, perfect for when you want something good but don’t want to spend all night cooking. It’s a great go-to for new cooks or anyone who’s in a rush to get a great meal ready. Plus, moms love this recipe because it’s a breeze to make and everybody enjoys it.
Get the Recipe: Shake and Bake Pork Chops

Chicken Corn Soup

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

Stir up some Chicken Corn Soup in under an hour for a meal that’s straightforward and soothing. It’s just one pot, chicken, corn, and veggies in a creamy soup—simple as that. Perfect for a relaxed dinner, it’s a great pick for those nights when you want something comforting with hardly any dishes to wash up.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Corn Soup

Spinach Chicken Bake

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

Throw together a Spinach Chicken Bake in half an hour for a meal that’s as simple as it is good for you. Just chicken, spinach, cheese, and a dash of spices, and you’re all set. It’s a great way to get your greens and keep dinner prep to a minimum.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Chicken Bake

Broccoli Casserole

A casserole dish with broccoli and cheese in it.
Broccoli Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Get a Broccoli Casserole on the table in just 50 minutes. It’s a no-nonsense mix of broccoli, cheese, and crackers that’s quick to put together. This dish is a hit for its convenience and great taste, making it a mom-approved option for a stress-free evening.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole

Creamy Garlic Chicken

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

Cook up Creamy Garlic Chicken in a single pan and just 30 minutes. It’s chicken cooked up in a creamy garlic and Parmesan sauce that’s easy to make any night of the week. This dish is perfect for when you’re looking to serve something a bit special but don’t want to spend all night in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Fajita Baked Chicken

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

If you’re after a meal that’s big on flavor but not on effort, Fajita Baked Chicken hits the spot in just 30 minutes. Just toss chicken, cream cheese, and sweet peppers in a dish, top with mozzarella, and bake. It’s a great way to spice up dinner without the fuss, making your evening that much smoother.
Get the Recipe: Fajita Baked Chicken

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.

Whip up some Italian Sausage Soup in half an hour for a comforting bowl that’s simple to make. With sausage, herbs, cream cheese, and tomatoes, this soup is a no-stress way to enjoy a hearty, soulful meal that brings a touch of Italy to your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sausage Soup

Fried Cabbage with Bacon

A pan full of bacon and cabbage with a wooden spoon.
Fried Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Fried Cabbage with Bacon is a quick 25-minute dish that’s perfect for adding some veggies to your plate. It’s cabbage and onions fried up with bacon for a meal that’s big on taste but not on work. It’s a laid-back option that moms will love for a great meal without the extra hassle.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Creamy ground beef skillet with cauliflower rice with a wooden spoon.
Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Creamy Ground Beef Skillet takes 30 minutes and uses cauliflower, rice, cheddar and mushrooms for a one-skillet meal. It’s an easy dinner that works hard to simplify your evening. Enjoy a quick, hearty meal that’s good for you.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

Cheesy beef casserole with cauliflower rice and spinach being spooned out of a baking dish.
Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Create a Cheesy Beef Casserole with cauliflower rice and spinach in just 30 minutes for a quick and hearty dinner. This dish combines beef with veggies and cheese, all while being simple to prepare. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a hearty meal that feels indulgent yet is packed with nutrients.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

A plate of garlic butter chicken bites.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Prepare Garlic Butter Chicken Bites in just 20 minutes, using chicken, garlic, butter, and your favorite herbs. This quick-cook recipe only requires these few ingredients and one pan, significantly simplifying both the cooking process and cleanup. It’s the perfect dish for busy evenings when you want something delicious yet straightforward, allowing you to enjoy a flavorful meal without dedicating too much time to kitchen work.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

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.

Make Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup in about an hour with sweet potatoes, red peppers, onions, and stock, all in a single pot for hassle-free preparation and cleaning. This combination of sweet and slightly spicy flavors creates a hearty and nutritious dish. It’s a great choice for nights when you’re hoping for a comforting and easy-to-prepare meal, streamlining your dinner routine.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

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