21 main dish recipes that won’t overcomplicate dinner

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Dinner doesn’t have to be a hassle, and I’ve found some incredible main dish recipes that prove just that. These options are designed to simplify your meal prep while still delivering flavor and satisfaction, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something special without the hassle. With these dishes in your repertoire, you can enjoy delicious meals without spending hours in the kitchen!

Sliced meatloaf on a white plate garnished with parsley.
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

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.

These air fryer chicken legs cook up juicy and full of flavor with minimal fuss, making them an easy option for busy evenings. With a crispy exterior and tender meat, they bring the best of the fryer without the extra oil. They’re a convenient main dish that requires little prep time, perfect for when you want a homemade meal without a lot of cleanup. Ready in under 30 minutes, they fit seamlessly into any weeknight routine. Serve with a side, and dinner is done without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Legs

Seafood Pot Pie

Seafood Pot Pie in small pie dish.
Seafood Pot Pie. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Seafood pot pie combines a variety of seafood in a creamy sauce under a golden crust, delivering a hearty meal without a long prep. This is a great option for when you’re looking to mix up dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. With simple ingredients and a rich flavor, it’s a meal the whole family can enjoy. Made in just one dish, it saves on cleanup while feeling like a complete meal. It’s ideal for adding some variety to your weeknight dinner routine.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Pot Pie

Stuffed Flank Steak Pinwheels

Stuffed steak pinwheels sliced on platter.
Stuffed Flank Steak Pinwheels. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These stuffed flank steak pinwheels make for a visually impressive and delicious main dish that doesn’t overcomplicate dinner prep. Filled with herbs and cheeses, they’re a great way to add something special to your meal without the need for extensive cooking skills. Perfect for a dinner that feels elegant but doesn’t take hours to prepare, this dish works well for both family meals and entertaining. The sliced pinwheels cook quickly, adding convenience to the process. This recipe brings balance and flavor without extra hassle.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Flank Steak Pinwheels

Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

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

This casserole brings together the flavors of chicken, bacon, and ranch in a single, easy-to-prepare dish. It’s a versatile option that’s great for serving a crowd or enjoying leftovers the next day. With minimal prep and cooking time, it’s perfect for nights when you want a filling meal without added complexity. The casserole format makes cleanup a breeze, with all the flavor in one dish. This recipe turns a few ingredients into a family-friendly dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

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 combines layers of chili, cheese, and crunchy corn chips, offering a flavorful and easy dinner option. This recipe keeps things simple, bringing together everyday ingredients into a dish that’s ready in no time. It’s perfect for nights when you need a hearty meal without much preparation. The layers bring a nice balance of textures, making it great for casual dinners. Quick to assemble and easy to serve, it’s a solid option for busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Frito Chili Pie

Cream Cheese Chicken

A plate with chicken and green beans on it.
Cream Cheese Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Cream cheese chicken is a smooth, creamy dish that brings together tender chicken with a mild, rich sauce. This recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for a no-stress main dish option. Its simplicity makes it a great choice when you want something homemade without spending much time in the kitchen. With only a few ingredients, it’s both quick and filling. This is a convenient go-to meal for any weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Chicken

Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

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

This crockpot chicken combines sweet and savory flavors in a set-it-and-forget-it format, making it ideal for easy dinners. The slow cooker does the work, letting you come home to a ready-made, flavorful meal without a lot of effort. With simple prep, it’s great for days when you don’t have time to cook but want something satisfying. Perfect for pairing with rice or veggies, this recipe adds variety to the weekly meal plan. It’s a hands-off option that brings great flavor with minimal work.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

Shrimp Scampi

A plate with shrimp and bread on it.
Shrimp Scampi. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Shrimp scampi offers a flavorful, garlicky shrimp dish that’s quick to prepare and works well for busy nights. Ready in under 15 minutes, it’s a practical choice when you want a full meal in no time. The shrimp and garlic bring a classic flavor combination that pairs nicely with pasta or a light salad. This dish keeps cleanup minimal, with only one pan needed. Perfect for nights when you want a seafood option that won’t take hours.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

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 is a simple yet flavorful main dish that comes together with minimal effort. The lemon butter sauce enhances the fish’s natural taste, creating a refreshing, light meal that’s perfect for any night. It’s ready in about 20 minutes, making it a practical choice for busy evenings. With only a handful of ingredients, this dish keeps cleanup easy. A great option for when you want a seafood dinner without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Baked Lemon Butter Fish

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.

These baked stuffed pork chops are a filling and easy-to-make option for a weeknight dinner. Stuffed with simple ingredients, they bring both flavor and convenience to the table without added steps. Ideal for a dinner that feels special but doesn’t require complicated techniques. The oven-baking keeps things hands-off, making it an easy main dish for any occasion. This dish fits well into a family meal without being time-intensive.
Get the Recipe: Baked Stuffed Pork Chops

Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

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

This pasta bake combines buffalo chicken with a creamy sauce for a hearty main dish that’s easy to prepare. It’s a practical option for busy nights, with everything baked together in one dish. The mild spice brings a bit of excitement to the meal, while the pasta makes it filling and comforting. Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s a straightforward recipe with plenty of flavor. Perfect for when you want a cozy meal without extra prep.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites (Lechon Kawali)

A basket of crispy roasted pork belly chunks garnished with parsley, served in a white paper-lined wicker basket.
Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites (Lechon Kawali). Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air fryer pork belly bites bring a crispy, flavorful option that’s ready in minutes, making them ideal for quick dinners. The air fryer keeps them light, with less oil and mess than traditional frying. This recipe lets you enjoy a satisfying main dish with minimal work. Serve with a simple side for a balanced meal that doesn’t take all night. A quick, delicious option that’s perfect for any evening.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites (Lechon Kawali)

Slow Cooker Beef Tips

A spoon holding chunks of beef in a rich, brown stew garnished with small pieces of green herbs.
Slow Cooker Beef Tips. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Slow cooker beef tips are a hands-off dinner option that’s hearty and full of rich flavors. The slow cooker does all the work, making it perfect for busy days when you don’t have time to stand over the stove. Serve with mashed potatoes or rice for a full meal that doesn’t require much prep. The beef becomes tender and flavorful, creating a cozy meal the whole family can enjoy. Ideal for nights when you need a low-maintenance dinner solution.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef Tips

Ground Pork Burgers

Close-up of  grilled pork burger patties stacked on a white plate.
Ground Pork Burgers. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Ground pork burgers offer a nice twist on the classic burger, with a juicy texture and savory flavor that’s easy to prepare. They’re a convenient main dish for a casual dinner or weekend grilling. Ready in minutes, these burgers bring variety to your weekly meal plan without complicating the process. Serve with your favorite toppings to make a quick and satisfying meal. Great for a no-fuss dinner that’s packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Burgers

Pan-Fried Pork Chops

Pork chops on a plate with rosemary sprigs.
Pan-Fried Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Pan-fried pork chops bring a golden-brown crust and juicy inside, making them an easy choice for a quick dinner. This recipe is straightforward, keeping things simple while delivering flavor in every bite. Ideal for busy nights, these pork chops cook up quickly and pair well with a variety of sides. With minimal ingredients, they’re easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. A reliable main dish for any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Pan-Fried Pork Chops

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Meatloaf on a white plate with a fork.
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Cracker Barrel meatloaf is a hearty main dish that brings comfort to the dinner table without a lot of prep. Made with simple ingredients, this meatloaf offers a homey flavor that’s perfect for family meals. It’s an easy option that can be prepared in advance, making it ideal for busy nights. Ready in about an hour, it’s a reliable recipe that fills you up. Perfect for a no-stress dinner that feels homemade.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

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 crispy exterior and juicy inside, making them a practical choice for any night. The panko crumbs create a nice texture without much effort, and they cook up quickly for busy evenings. Great for when you want something different but not complicated. These chops pair well with simple sides, adding variety to your meal plan. A quick and flavorful option that doesn’t require much preparation.
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 brings together fresh vegetables and ground pork in a quick, flavorful dish. It’s a practical choice for weeknights when you want a full meal without much prep. The stir-fry format keeps cooking time short, letting you get dinner on the table fast. This dish is versatile, allowing for different vegetables based on what you have on hand. Perfect for adding variety without overcomplicating things.
Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Stir Fry

Panko Chicken Breast

Panko chicken on a white plate.
Panko Chicken Breast. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Panko chicken breast offers a crispy coating with a tender inside, making it an easy main dish for any evening. With minimal ingredients and a quick cooking time, it’s great for busy nights when you need something quick. The panko breading brings a nice crunch, adding a bit of texture without extra steps. This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, fitting into any meal plan. A reliable go-to recipe that’s light on prep but big on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Panko Chicken Breast

Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry

Roasted broccoli and tofu cubes garnished with sesame seeds and green onions, served with a wooden spoon.
Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Broccoli tofu stir fry is a plant-based option that combines crisp broccoli and tender tofu for a balanced, easy main dish. With a quick cooking time, it’s perfect for nights when you need a wholesome meal without a long prep. The stir-fry format keeps things simple while bringing fresh flavors to your plate. This recipe works well with rice or noodles for a complete meal. Ideal for adding variety to your weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry

Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon

A plate of salmon on a white plate with lemon slices on it.
Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Lemon butter sauce for salmon brings a light and refreshing touch to any fish dish, ideal for when you want a quick sauce that doesn’t overwhelm. This sauce is perfect for adding a subtle flavor boost without lengthy preparation. It’s an easy way to make dinner feel more put-together with minimal work. The lemon and butter create a classic combination that pairs well with salmon or other seafood. Perfect for a main dish that’s simple yet flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon

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