19 weeknight recipes that prove you can eat well fast

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Some say you can’t have fast, easy, and good all in one dinner—those people clearly haven’t tried these 19 ideas. These recipes are made for nights when you’re racing the clock but still want something that feels homemade. Forget spending hours in the kitchen; these are all about keeping things simple and delicious. Your weeknight dinners just got a serious upgrade, and no time machine is required.

Fork lifting a serving of cheesy cheeseburger casserole garnished with parsley.
The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Philly Cheesesteak Sliders

Close-up of beef and cheese sliders with toasted buns on a white surface.
Philly Cheesesteak Sliders. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sometimes, you just want a little twist on a classic to make weeknights fun. Picture bite-sized versions of your favorite sandwich, perfect for sharing or just enjoying on your own. Philly Cheesesteak Sliders pack all that savory filling into a small package that’s a hit with both kids and adults. Despite the reduced size, they don’t compromise on the flavor that makes the original so beloved.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheesesteak Sliders

Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Close-up of crispy, Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken pieces garnished with chopped herbs and served with a lemon wedge. The pieces are placed on a parchment-lined surface.
Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Everyone appreciates a meal that’s as easy to clean up as it is to enjoy, right? Well, with Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken, you get just that along with a crunchy, golden exterior that’s hard to resist. The convenience factor is through the roof, since you’ve got your protein and sides taken care of all on one pan. It’s an efficient way to serve up something that feels a bit fancy without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Spaghetti Casserole

A serving of cheesy baked spaghetti is being lifted with a utensil. The dish is topped with melted cheese and garnished with herbs.
Spaghetti Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’re in need of comfort food, but also want to mix it up a little, look no further. Spaghetti Casserole transforms a family favorite pasta dish into a form that’s even more convenient. This dish is especially handy when you’re feeding a larger group—just slice and serve. Moreover, the baked format means you can have dinner ready in advance, just waiting to be re-heated any hectic night.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Casserole

Breakfast Burritos

Close-up of a burrito cut in half, showing fillings of scrambled eggs, avocado, tomatoes, cheese, and herbs wrapped in a tortilla.
Breakfast Burritos. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Who says you can’t have breakfast for dinner? Especially when it comes wrapped in a warm, soft tortilla filled with morning favorites that offer both flavor and energy. Breakfast Burritos are customizable and can be filled with a variety of fillings to please every palate. They’re perfect for on-the-go dining, or a sit-down meal with the family.
Get the Recipe: Breakfast Burritos

Cheese Ravioli

A white plate of ravioli topped with black pepper, grated cheese, and sage leaves.
Cheese Ravioli. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When you want something that feels gourmet with minimal effort, this dish fits the bill. It’s simple and classic without the fuss of fancy preparation. Cheese Ravioli is a crowd-pleaser that’s versatile enough to go with a multitude of toppings or sauces. Plus, it’s a great way to bring a little Italian flair to your weekly meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Ravioli

Hamburger Casserole

A close-up of a spoon lifting a portion of hamburger casserole, showcasing baked macaroni and cheese layered with ground meat and topped with lettuce and creamy sauce.
Hamburger Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Spice up your dinner routine with Hamburger Casserole. This dish combines ground meat with various layers, creating a hearty meal that’s perfect for chilling evenings. It’s easy to assemble and even easier to devour. Whether you’re feeding hungry kids or just looking for a comfort meal, it’s a great dish to have in your repertoire.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Casserole

Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

Roasted chicken thigh with herbs, served on a bed of roasted vegetables.
Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe brings a hint of sweetness to your dinner table. By cooking everything on one sheet, you reduce clean-up time significantly. The maple adds a unique flavor that’s sure to be different from your typical weeknight dinner. It’s ideal when you crave something a bit sweet but still nutritious.
Get the Recipe: Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

Mississippi Mud Potatoes

A baked dish with melted cheese, diced pineapples, browned bacon, and chopped green onions on top.
Mississippi Mud Potatoes. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For a starchy side with lots of flavors, try Mississippi Mud Potatoes. These are creamy, cheesy, and decadent enough to steal the show from any main course. They come together easily and are a hit at any gathering. If you’re looking to add a little comfort to your meal, this is the way to go.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Close-up of a tater tot breakfast casserole topped with melted cheese, sliced green onions, and chopped herbs.
Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Imagine starting the day—or ending it—with a dish that’s as playful as it is filling. Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is like the best part of brunch anytime and works well as a crowd-pleaser for any meal. It combines the convenience of a casserole with the irresistible crunch of tater tots. It’s also very versatile, easily customizable to include your favorite breakfast mix-ins.
Get the Recipe: Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

A dish of ravioli with bacon and parsley that can be found at Olive Garden.
Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For nights when you crave restaurant flair without leaving the house, there’s an answer. Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara brings a favorite Italian eatery right to your dining table. It’s creamy, comforting and captures the rich taste of dining out, all while being astonishingly simple to make at home. Make any evening special with this restaurant-worthy dish without the wait or the tip.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Close-up of a baked casserole topped with melted cheese and garnished with chopped parsley.
Stuffed Pepper Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Change up your casserole game with a dish that brings a bit of color and nutrition to the table. Stuffed Pepper Casserole has all the hearty flavors of the traditional dish with a simplicity that’s hard to beat. It’s as ideal for meal prepping as it is for serving up a fresh, hot dinner. Plus, it’s a great vessel for getting the kids to eat their veggies in a fun and tasty way.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Homemade KFC Zinger Burger

A chicken sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and sauce on a bun, with fries in the background.
Homemade KFC Zinger Burger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sometimes, you just need a comforting classic that delivers on flavor and crunch. A Homemade KFC Zinger Burger does just that, allowing you to replicate the spicy, crispy goodness of the fast-food favorite. It’s a fun cooking project that ends with a rewarding meal, and it’ll be a sure hit when you’re in the mood for something indulgent. Perfect for a treat yourself moment or when you’re tasked with feeding the famished family.
Get the Recipe: Homemade KFC Zinger Burger

Ravioli Casserole

Close-up of a baked dish with ravioli, mushrooms, asparagus, and melted cheese on top.
Ravioli Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Let’s take the appeal of tender pasta and cheese and spin it into a dish perfect for weeknight ease. Ravioli Casserole is about layering flavors and textures for a comforting result that’s ready in no time. It’s flexible enough to let you work in your own twist on the classic, whether it’s extra veggies or a different kind of sauce. It’s a one-dish wonder that’s likely to make regular appearances on your table.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole

Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos

Close-up of loaded Buffalo chicken nachos piled high with shredded chicken, jalapeños, cheese, green onions, hot sauce, and a dollop of sour cream.
Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Every now and then, a meal calls for a bit of fun and indulgence, so why not make it communal? Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos are a casual, shareable dish that packs a punch of flavor. It’s perfect for movie nights, game days, or when you need a quick dinner that feels like a festive event. The best part is that you can throw on whatever toppings you love and make it your own.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos

Beef Pot Pie

A golden-brown homemade pie with a flaky crust, garnished with a sprig of rosemary on the side.
Beef Pot Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Beef Pot Pie is a classic that never fails to comfort. With its flaky crust and rich filling, it’s a hearty meal that warmly wraps up any evening. It’s also convenient, as you can prep it ahead and bake when ready. This dish is a testament to traditional cooking made simple and enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Beef Pot Pie

Easy Chicken Casserole

A fork lifting a cheesy bite from a bowl of chicken casserole topped with bacon and breadcrumbs.
Easy Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sometimes the simplest dishes are the most rewarding, especially when they’re packed with flavor. Look no further than Easy Chicken Casserole for a no-fuss dinner that the whole family will enjoy. This dish is a great way to make a complete meal without having to juggle multiple pots and pans. Plus, it’s easily adaptable to include your favorite veggies or whatever you have on hand.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Casserole

Three Cheese Manicotti

A plate of stuffed cannelloni topped with tomato sauce, grated cheese, and fresh basil.
Three Cheese Manicotti. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For a cheesy delight, turn to Three Cheese Manicotti. This pasta dish is stuffed with three types of cheese, enveloped in a rich sauce, and then baked to perfection. It’s a wonderful way to end your day on a cheesy note, plus it’s straightforward to make. If cheese is your thing, this meal will make your evening.
Get the Recipe: Three Cheese Manicotti

Baked Rice

A close-up of a bowl of oven-baked fried rice mixed with colorful vegetables like green beans, bell peppers, and scallions, with a spoon resting inside.
Baked Rice. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

In need of a side that’s uncomplicated but serves up something interesting for your palates? Baked Rice offers a fluffy and tender alternative to the usual sides. It’s a dish that complements almost any main and holds its own with subtle flavors. This could easily become a new staple in your weekly lineup because of its simple prep and satisfying nature.
Get the Recipe: Baked Rice

The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole

Fork lifting a serving of cheesy cheeseburger casserole garnished with parsley.
The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Turn the classic cheeseburger into a dish that’s fit for the dinner table, with all the flavors you love packed into one casserole. The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole brings fun to the weeknight meal scene. This dish is like a hug in casserole form, offering a unique take on an American favorite. Plus, it’s as pleasing to kids as it is to adults, ensuring clean plates all around.
Get the Recipe: The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole

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