19 weeknight dinners the whole family loves

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Weeknights can be hectic, but dinner doesn’t have to be a struggle. These 19 recipes are here to save the day with meals that everyone in the family will love. No more cooking multiple dishes or dealing with picky eaters—these dinners are crowd-pleasers that make everyone happy, from the littlest kids to the adults at the table. Get ready for weeknight dinners that are a hit every single time!

Pork fried rice in a blue and white striped bowl.
Pork Fried Rice. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Quesabirria Tacos

Overhead shot of quesabirria tacos with lime wedges.
Quesabirria Tacos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When you want a dinner that brings everyone to the table with enthusiasm, Quesabirria Tacos are the answer. This dish has quickly become a favorite for its rich flavors and comforting qualities. It’s perfect for a casual weeknight where fun and flavor are on the menu. Many families find this dish to be a fun way to break from the usual dinner routine.
Get the Recipe: Quesabirria Tacos

Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Creamy Tuscan chicken in a skillet.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken is a go-to for a quick and delicious meal that pleases everyone. This dish is often chosen for its creamy texture and hearty appeal, making it a staple for family dinners. It pairs well with any side dish and is known for its ability to satisfy a hungry crowd. Parents often note how this recipe has become a regular request from all family members.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Szechuan Shrimp

Low angle shot of szechuan shrimp in a wok.
Szechuan Shrimp. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For those nights when you crave something with a bit more kick, Szechuan Shrimp serves up just the right amount of spice. This dish is celebrated for its quick cooking time and flavorful punch, making it ideal for a busy weeknight. It’s a popular choice among families who enjoy a little heat with their dinner. Many appreciate how it brings a vibrant twist to the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Szechuan Shrimp

Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Beef bulgogi in a bowl with rice and cucumbers.
Beef Bulgogi Bowls. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Beef Bulgogi Bowls offer a combination of flavors that are both nourishing and quick to prepare. This dish is perfect for those evenings when time is short but the desire for a fulfilling meal is high. It’s become a favorite for its ease of preparation and the enjoyable way it rounds out the day. Families often turn to this recipe for a reliable and delicious meal option.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Camarones a la Diabla

Shrimp in red chile sauce on a white plate with lime wedges and a fork in the background.
Camarones a la Diabla. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Spice up your dinner routine with Camarones a la Diabla, a dish known for its bold flavors and quick preparation. This meal is a hit for those who like their food with a little extra heat. It’s particularly popular on busy weeknights, offering a speedy yet flavorful dining experience. The recipe is frequently requested by those looking to impress with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Camarones a la Diabla

Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos

Stacked taquitos on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos are perfect for a fuss-free dinner that everyone can get excited about. This dish is known for its crispy texture and delicious filling, all ready in a fraction of the usual cooking time. It’s a popular choice for families looking for a quick and filling meal during the week. Many love how simple yet delicious these taquitos are, often becoming a regular part of the dinner rotation.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos

Kerala Fish Curry

Fish curry in an earthenware baking dish.
Kerala Fish Curry. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Dig into a world of flavor with Kerala Fish Curry, a dish that brings the aromatic delights of Indian cuisine to your table. This meal is a wonderful choice for families looking to explore different flavors during the week. It’s appreciated for its depth of flavor and relatively simple preparation. Many find this dish to be a refreshing change from their typical weeknight meals.
Get the Recipe: Kerala Fish Curry

Pork Belly Banh Mi

3 pork belly banh mi on a white platter with limes and pickled veg in the background.
Pork Belly Banh Mi. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Everyone needs a quick and easy meal for those busy weeknights, and Pork Belly Banh Mi fits the bill. It’s a go-to for families who want a meal that’s both uncomplicated and fast to prepare. This dish brings an exciting twist to dinner with its unique flair. It’s sure to be a hit, offering a pleasant break from the usual dinner routine.
Get the Recipe: Pork Belly Banh Mi

Instant Pot Shrimp Biryani

Overhead shot of a platter of shrimp biryani.
Instant Pot Shrimp Biryani. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When time is of the essence, Instant Pot Shrimp Biryani steps up as the perfect meal solution. This dish is known for its quick cooking time and the minimal effort it requires. Ideal for a family that enjoys flavorful meals, it promises a no-fuss dinner with a touch of exotic flair. It’s a wonderful way to introduce new flavors to the dinner table without extensive preparation.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Shrimp Biryani

Chilaquiles

Overhead shot of chilaquiles on a black plate with a fork and knife on the side.
Chilaquiles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For a dinner that is as comforting as it is quick to prepare, Chilaquiles is an excellent choice. This dish is a staple for families looking for a fulfilling evening meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s particularly popular for its ease of assembly and the hearty experience it provides. It’s a practical choice for anyone looking to satisfy a group with diverse tastes.
Get the Recipe: Chilaquiles

Pork Fried Rice

Pork fried rice in a blue and white striped bowl.
Pork Fried Rice. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Midweek meals don’t have to be complicated, and Pork Fried Rice is proof of that. This dish is a household favorite due to its simple preparation and the comforting familiarity it offers. It’s perfect for those evenings when you need a fulfilling meal on the table quickly. Families appreciate this recipe for its versatility and the ease with which it can be adapted to suit different preferences.
Get the Recipe: Pork Fried Rice

Kung Pao Chicken

Low angle shot of a bowl of kung pao chicken.
Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you’re in the mood for something with a bit of a kick, Kung Pao Chicken is the way to go. This dish is a beloved classic for its vibrant flavors and quick preparation time. It’s an excellent option for a family dinner that requires minimal fuss but delivers maximum enjoyment. This recipe is a consistent favorite for its ability to please a crowd and its straightforward preparation.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Lamb Kofta Kebabs

Lamb kofta kebabs on a wooden board with  fresh herbs and vegetables.
Lamb Kofta Kebabs. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Turning a simple dinner into a special occasion is easy with Lamb Kofta Kebabs. This dish offers a variation from the typical weeknight meal and is both quick to make and delicious. It’s a great way to bring a bit of international flavor to your dining table without any complex preparation. Families enjoy this for its festive feel and the joy it brings to both making and eating together.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Kofta Kebabs

Sopa de Camarones

A bowl of shrimp soup.
Sopa de Camarones. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

On chilly evenings, a warm dish like Sopa de Camarones can be the perfect comfort food. This meal is easy to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknights when time is limited. It’s known for its comforting warmth and rich flavors that are sure to please any palate. This dish is a wonderful way to end a hectic day, offering a soothing meal that brings the family together around the dining table.
Get the Recipe: Sopa de Camarones

Tandoori Chicken

A plate of tandoori chicken with a side dish of cooked rice, shot from a low angle.
Tandoori Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Busy nights call for dishes that hit all the right notes – and Tandoori Chicken might just be your next family favorite. This dish is fuss-free, making it a breeze to whip up after a long day. Its vibrant flavors bring something exciting to the dinner table. It’s a practical option that doesn’t compromise on character or enjoyment, rightfully earning its spot in the weekly meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Tandoori Chicken

Miso Glazed Salmon

Miso glazed salmon on a plate with rice and spinach.
Miso Glazed Salmon. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you’re leaning towards a meal that is both wholesome and straightforward, try your hand at Miso Glazed Salmon. This dish brings a subtle complexity of flavors that is bound to intrigue anyone who tries it. It’s a perfect match for those evenings when you have little time but still want a dish that seems thoughtfully crafted.
Get the Recipe: Miso Glazed Salmon

Thai Peanut Sauce Noodles

Overhead shot of a bowl of noodles with vegetables and thai peanut sauce.
Thai Peanut Sauce Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Step up your weeknight dinner game with a whirlwind of flavors in Thai Peanut Sauce Noodles. This dish is a no-hassle, crowd-pleaser with the right balance of bold and familiar. It’s as quick to prepare as it is to disappear from plates, a true testament to its allure among a broad range of taste preferences. Families will appreciate the homely yet exotic touch it adds to the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Thai Peanut Sauce Noodles

Pancit Bihon

Pancit noodles on a plate with veggies and chicken.
Pancit Bihon. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Experience the comforting embrace of Pancit Bihon, a dish that can turn your dinner time into a special occasion without effort. It’s the kind of meal that makes everyone feel at home. What’s great about it is that its fullness guarantees there won’t be a need for a second helping. It’s a straightforward dish that promises to leave everyone both full and content.
Get the Recipe: Pancit Bihon

Tom Kha Gai

A bowl of soup garnished with cilantro, lime, and chili slices, with a person taking a spoonful.
Tom Kha Gai. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Midweek meals don’t have to be mundane, and Tom Kha Gai is evidence of that. Its blend of flavors provides a much-needed break from the ordinary. Ready in a snap, it offers a comforting warmth ideal for unwinding after a busy day. This dish manages to capture the essence of a complex flavor profile without requiring a day’s work in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Tom Kha Gai

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