17 weeknight recipes that make your workday feel like a breeze

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Nobody wants to wrestle with complicated cooking after work, which is why 17 simple weeknight meals can be the real MVPs of your week. They’re all about keeping things stress-free while still putting something solid on the table. Whether it’s a one-pan wonder or a minimal-cleanup hero, these options save time without sacrificing flavor. Who says weekday dinners can’t be a breeze?

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

If you’ve had a long day and are looking for comfort, these sliders answer the call with juicy flavors and melted cheese. Picture bite-sized sandwiches that are easy to share or keep all to yourself, making Philly Cheesesteak Sliders perfect for any night. Cleanup is simple, which means more time to relax after dinner. They’re a hit with both adults and kids, keeping everyone at the table happy and satisfied.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheesesteak Sliders

Chicken Noodle Soup

A close-up of a bowl of hearty Chicken Noodle Soup, showcasing shredded chicken, egg noodles, chopped carrots, celery, and garnished with fresh parsley.
Chicken Noodle Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For those chilly evenings or when you need a touch of home, a bowl provides warmth and nostalgia. No takeout can compare to the homemade taste of Chicken Noodle Soup, which brings solace after a hectic weekday. This dish requires minimal effort but offers maximum comfort. It’s a classic reminder that sometimes, simplicity is indeed bliss.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Noodle Soup

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.

Switch things up with a dish that brings the heartiness of stuffed peppers into a convenient casserole form. Stuffed Pepper Casserole offers a medley of flavors without the fuss of traditional preparation. It’s as comforting as it is nutritious, dishing out warmth in every serving. End your day with this casserole that fills your home with an inviting aroma.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Pepper 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.

Kick your typical dinner routine up a notch with a plate of bold flavors. Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos are a crowd-pleaser, whether it’s game night or you need a break from the usual. They turn any evening into a mini celebration and save you time in the kitchen. Best of all, they don’t skimp on taste or fun.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos

Egg Prosciutto Bagel

Close-up of a savory pastry topped with a sunny-side-up egg, sliced ham, yellow bell pepper, and garnished with chopped parsley, served on a sesame seed bun.
Egg Prosciutto Bagel. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Begin your day on a bright note or enjoy a simple dinner with this effortlessly delicious option. An Egg Prosciutto Bagel brings together classic elements for a fulfilling meal. It’s easy to make and even easier to devour, satisfying your hunger without any hassle. Who said you couldn’t have breakfast favorites for dinner?
Get the Recipe: Egg Prosciutto Bagel

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 waking up to a dish that brings together everyone’s favorite morning flavors in one hearty package. Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is a welcome addition to your weeknight routine, offering a comforting meal at any time. Its heartiness is matched only by its convenience, leaving you satisfied on a busy weekday. Serve this, and watch it disappear from the table.
Get the Recipe: Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls

Close-up of cheesy garlic bread rolls topped with chopped green onions on a white plate, reminiscent of Loaded Buffalo Chicken Rolls.
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

With a mix of spicy chicken and soft, doughy goodness, these rolls redefine snacking during the week. Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls are perfect for a no-fuss dinner that still feels like a treat. They’re the right choice when you want something different without spending too much time in the kitchen. Everyone will look forward to this delicious twist on dinner rolls.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls

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.

Sometimes, you just need a side dish that won’t steal the show but still shines on its own. Baked Rice is a versatile companion to any main course, delivering a subtle and comforting taste. It’s as easy to prepare as it is to pair with your favorite dishes. On your busiest evenings, this is the no-stress side that complements any meal.
Get the Recipe: Baked Rice

Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy, golden-brown macaroni and cheese dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping reminiscent of comforting funeral potatoes. A spoon is partially submerged in the cheese sauce.
Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Indulge in creamy goodness any night of the week with a classic that never disappoints. Mac and Cheese serves up nostalgia and flavor in equal measure, with no fancy ingredients needed. It’s a staple that promises a quick solution to hunger pangs. Every spoonful is a reminder of why some recipes become timeless favorites.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

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.

Enjoy the classic taste of spaghetti in a new, oven-baked form. Spaghetti Casserole turns the familiar pasta dish into a comforting bake that’s ready without the need for constant attention. It’s perfect for those nights when even simple pasta seems too much to handle. Tuck into this dish and let the oven do most of the work.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Casserole

Easy Chicken Tenders

Breaded chicken tenders served on a plate with dipping sauce.
Easy Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For a weeknight win that’s both kid and adult-friendly, whip up a batch of these. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, Easy Chicken Tenders can be a go-to for simplicity and flavor. Serve them up in no time, giving you a chance to unwind instead of spending hours cooking. They’re just the thing when you want to please a crowd with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Tenders

Cheese Ravioli

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

Skip the complications of homemade pasta but still enjoy the essence of Italian cooking. Cheese Ravioli is a testament to the splendid results of uncomplicated cooking. This dish puts a hearty meal on your table without consuming your evening. It’s the kind of comfort food that makes any weekday feel a little bit special.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Ravioli

Spaghetti Bolognese

A plate of spaghetti topped with meat sauce and a fresh basil leaf, accompanied by a fork on the side.
Spaghetti Bolognese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Whip up something hearty that will have everyone rushing to the table. Spaghetti Bolognese combines rich flavors in a way that only this Italian staple can. It’s the answer when you’re in need of a fulfilling meal that brings everyone together. This dish shows off the power of simple ingredients coming together to create a weeknight favorite.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Bolognese

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.

Fill your evening with the creamy, cheesy pleasure of an Italian-inspired dish that’s uncomplicated to make. Three Cheese Manicotti is like a warm hug from the inside out, ideal for those moments when you need some food comfort. It’s as generous with its flavors as it is with its ability to fill you up. Dig into this dish for a taste of what effortless indulgence truly means.
Get the Recipe: Three Cheese Manicotti

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.

Transform your kitchen into a bastion of homestyle cooking with minimal fuss. Beef Pot Pie combines a flaky crust with a savory filling, a true homage to classic comfort food. It’s a full meal in itself, giving you more time to relax in the evening. Just slide this pie into the oven, and let the magic happen as you take a well-deserved break.
Get the Recipe: Beef Pot Pie

Ravioli Casserole

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

Combine the ease of a casserole with the comfort of stuffed pasta to get a dish that’s both time-saving and hearty. Ravioli Casserole packs a punch of flavors and textures. It’s a dish that’s ready to back up your weeknights with a promise of satisfaction and simplicity. With one serving, weeknight meals become less of a chore and more of a moment to savor.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli 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.

Bring together sweet and savory in one pan for a meal that’s as wonderful to prepare as it is to eat. Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe symbolizes minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. It’s the kind of recipe that respects your time and rewards your palate. Enjoy a full, rounded meal that effortlessly caters to a busy schedule.
Get the Recipe: Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

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