Kicking off the week with a meal that turns Monday blues into Monday cheers is easier than ever with these 13 recipes. Designed to shake up the start of the week, each meal brings something special to the table, making the thought of another Monday something to actually look forward to. From comforting classics with a twist to quick, vibrant dishes that pack a punch, these recipes ensure that the week starts on a high note.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
Starting the week with a dish that feels like a warm embrace might just change the way you feel about Mondays. This homestyle favorite combines tender chicken and soft dumplings in a comforting broth. It’s like bringing the coziness of Cracker Barrel right into your dining room, making it a meal that the whole family will gather around the table for.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
Eggplant Casserole
Eggplant Casserole is a hearty, flavorful dish that makes vegetables the star. With layers of eggplant, cheese, and sauce baked to perfection, it’s a meatless option that still satisfies the craving for something rich and comforting. Serve this on a Monday, and you’ll see smiles all around the table, proving that vegetables can indeed be the main event.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Casserole
Vegan Chicken Nuggets
For a cruelty-free start to your week, these Vegan Chicken Nuggets are a hit with both kids and adults. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and perfect for dipping into your favorite sauces. It’s a fun way to enjoy a classic favorite without any of the guilt, making Monday dinner something everyone can look forward to.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Chicken Nuggets
Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara
Who wouldn’t want to kick off their week with a creamy, dreamy pasta dish? This version brings the rich taste of Olive Garden’s Ravioli Carbonara right to your kitchen. It’s a luxurious dish that’s surprisingly simple to make, turning Monday into the new favorite day for pasta lovers.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara
Roasted Cauliflower Tacos
Tacos are always a good idea, especially when they’re filled with spicy roasted cauliflower. These tacos are a vegetarian delight that packs a punch of flavor, making them a perfect Monday meal. It’s a fresh, vibrant way to start the week with a dish that’s as colorful as it is delicious.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cauliflower Tacos
Vegetable Casserole
Dive into a dish that’s bursting with veggies and flavor with this Vegetable Casserole. It’s a great way to make sure you’re getting your greens in a way that’s both tasty and satisfying. Perfect for a meatless Monday, this casserole might just become a weekly request.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Casserole
Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice
There’s something about Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice that makes any meal feel more special. It’s the perfect base for a variety of dishes, offering a subtle fragrance that enhances the flavors of your meal. Serve this up on a Monday, and watch it elevate the dinner table with its simple elegance.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice
Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta
Kickstart your week with a pasta dish that’s not afraid to turn up the heat. This Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta is creamy, spicy, and filled with tender pieces of chicken. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to add some excitement to your Monday night routine.
Get the Recipe: Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta
The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole
Imagine all the flavors of a juicy cheeseburger packed into a hearty casserole. This dish is a fun, satisfying way to enjoy a classic in a new form. It’s bound to become a Monday staple, especially on nights when only comfort food will do.
Get the Recipe: The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole
Best Lemon Pasta
Lighten up your Monday with a pasta dish that’s as bright and refreshing as it is easy to make. The zesty lemon flavor makes this Best Lemon Pasta a favorite for anyone looking for a quick, flavorful meal. It’s a delightful way to start the week on a fresh note.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
There’s nothing quite like a bowl of Roasted Tomato Basil Soup to make a Monday feel cozy. This soup combines the deep, rich flavors of roasted tomatoes with the freshness of basil. It’s a classic soup that’s perfect for dipping a grilled cheese into, making it a comforting start to the week.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Easy Walking Taco Casserole
Bring the fun of walking tacos to your dinner table with this Easy Walking Taco Casserole. It’s a dish that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat, layering all your favorite taco ingredients into one delicious bake. Perfect for a laid-back Monday, this casserole is a hit with kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Easy Walking Taco Casserole
Baked Mushroom Rice
Baked Mushroom Rice is a simple yet savory side dish that complements any main course beautifully. With earthy mushrooms and fluffy rice, it’s a combination that’s hard to beat. Serve this on a Monday, and watch it disappear, proving that sides can shine just as brightly as the main dish.
Get the Recipe: Baked Mushroom Rice