15 warm & cozy meals you actually have time to make after work

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After a long workday, spending hours in the kitchen isn’t on the agenda. These recipes are built for weeknights when time and energy are limited but you still want something warm and satisfying. With quick pasta dishes, simple casseroles, and one-pan meals, these options get dinner on the table without draining what’s left of your energy.

Close-up of a cheesy taco casserole with layers of melted cheese, seasoned ground beef, black beans, peppers, and onions, garnished with chopped parsley.
Mexican ground beef casserole. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Creamy Tomato Farfalle

Creamy tomato farfalle with peas and prosciutto in a white bowl.
Creamy Tomato Farfalle. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This creamy tomato farfalle is ready in just 20 minutes, combining peas, crispy prosciutto, and a lighter cream sauce for a quick, cozy dinner that feels just right after a long day.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tomato Farfalle

Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese with ground turkey in a pot.
Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This one-pot turkey mac and cheese has all the comfort of a classic with a boost from spinach, peppers, and real cheddar cheese. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weekday meal without any extra fuss.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese

Creamy Pumpkin Garlic Pasta

Creamy pumpkin pasta with garlic and tuscan kale in a bowl with a spoon.
Creamy Pumpkin Garlic Pasta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Rich and creamy with just the right hint of fall spices, this pumpkin garlic pasta is everything you need for a seasonal dinner that’s easy to whip up after work.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pumpkin Garlic Pasta

Buffalo Chicken Orzo Soup

Buffalo chicken soup with orzo served in a bowl with blue cheese crumbles and green onion.
Buffalo Chicken Orzo Soup. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

If you love buffalo flavors, this cheesy, spicy buffalo chicken soup with orzo is a must. On the table in just 30 minutes, it’s the perfect way to bring a bit of heat to a chilly evening.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Orzo Soup

Creamy Mushroom Risotto

Mushroom risotto with peas and mushrooms in a pot with wooden spoon.
Creamy Mushroom Risotto. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This dairy-free mushroom risotto with peas is loaded with rich umami flavors, bringing you a cozy, creamy meal that doesn’t require any cream. A great dinner for a comforting night in.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mushroom Risotto

Turkey Chili Pie

Turkey chili pie in a skillet and serving bowls.
Turkey Chili Pie. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

A complete meal in one skillet, this turkey chili pie layers a lean turkey chili with a hearty cornbread topping. It’s simple to prep and easy to enjoy, making it a great midweek go-to.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Chili Pie

Goat Cheese Grits

Creamy goat cheese grits in a white bowl with a wooden spoon topped with tomatoes and fresh basil.
Goat Cheese Grits. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These creamy goat cheese grits are topped with burst tomatoes, chicken, and basil, bringing full flavors and plenty of comfort to the table. Perfect for winding down after a busy day.
Get the Recipe: Goat Cheese Grits

Chicken Apple Cheddar Chili

A bowl of chili with apples, beans and sour cream.
Chicken Apple Cheddar Chili. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

With white beans, cheddar, and a touch of sweetness from apple, this chicken chili is a unique fall-inspired dinner. It’s creamy, hearty, and ready to warm you up without too much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Apple Cheddar Chili

Sausage Mac and Cheese

A bowl of macaroni and cheese with sausage and parsley.
Sausage Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This homemade sausage mac and cheese delivers a rich, velvety sauce that’s a hit with both kids and adults. Great for a cozy weeknight when you need a no-fuss comfort meal.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Mac and Cheese

Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese

Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This creamy sweet potato mac and cheese sneaks in a bit of spinach and uses almond milk for extra creaminess. A cozy, cheesy dinner that feels a bit lighter without skimping on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese

Winter Vegetable Curry

Winter Vegetable Curry. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Packed with butternut squash, cauliflower, kale, and chickpeas, this winter vegetable curry is hearty and satisfying, with zero meat needed. Perfect for a filling, plant-based dinner after work.
Get the Recipe: Winter Vegetable Curry

Sausage Stuffed Peppers

Sausage Stuffed Peppers. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These stuffed peppers, filled with ground sausage, spinach, rice, and ricotta, are topped with parmesan and baked to perfection. They make a great all-in-one meal that’s easy to throw together on a weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Stuffed Peppers

Salsa Chicken

A white dish with chicken in a tomato sauce.
Salsa Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Salsa chicken is a quick go-to dinner, with juicy chicken breasts baked in salsa, corn, and cheddar cheese. Ready in less than 30 minutes, it’s a family-friendly meal that’s big on flavor and short on prep time.
Get the Recipe: Salsa Chicken

Mexican Ground Beef Casserole

Mexican Ground Beef Casserole. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This Mexican ground beef casserole brings together tomatoes, peppers, black beans, and cauliflower rice in a cheesy, flavor-packed dinner. With a 40-minute cook time, it’s a convenient weeknight win.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Ground Beef Casserole

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

A bowl of pasta with vegetables and cheese garnished with basil on a table next to a pepper mill and a linen napkin.
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This sun-dried tomato pasta with rigatoni, shredded parmesan, and spinach is a quick, comforting meatless meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Great for a satisfying dinner you’ll want on repeat.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

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