Are you tired of scrambling to come up with a delicious meal idea for busy weeknights? Do you find yourself relying on the same old recipes or ordering takeout because cooking seems like too much work? Look no further! We’ve got 20 mouth-watering recipes that are quick, easy, and packed with flavor. From creamy pasta dishes to savory stir-fries, these recipes are perfect for busy families, couples, and individuals alike.
In this article, we’ll be sharing a mix of classic comfort foods and international-inspired dishes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re in the mood for something rich and indulgent or light and refreshing, we’ve got you covered. So grab your apron, preheat your oven, and get ready to cook up some delicious meals with minimal fuss.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 of our favorite recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or fettuccine)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
This mouth-watering recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the richness of garlic butter and tender chicken, all cooked to perfection in one pan. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until browned.
4. Pour in lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Sprinkle with thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Honey Glazed Salmon
This sweet and spicy glazed salmon recipe combines the rich flavors of honey, soy sauce, and chili flakes to create a mouth-watering dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp chili flakes
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and chili flakes.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the salmon fillets.
4. Brush the honey glaze evenly over each fillet.
5. Drizzle olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu
In this quick and easy recipe, you’ll learn to combine a medley of colorful vegetables with crispy tofu for a nutritious and flavorful dish. This vegetable stir-fry is perfect as a main course or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
– 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 broccoli crown, florets only
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., snap peas, mushrooms, bok choy)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, carrot, and broccoli to the pan. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add mixed vegetables, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Return tofu to the pan and stir-fry for another minute to combine with the vegetables.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Broccoli in Oyster Sauce
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines tender beef, crisp broccoli, and the rich flavor of oyster sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons oyster sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked white rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from wok and set aside.
3. In the same wok, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add broccoli to the wok and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp.
5. Return beef to the wok and stir in oyster sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cheesy Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage
A classic comfort food recipe that combines the flavors of tender ziti pasta, savory Italian sausage, and a rich three-cheese sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 12 oz ziti pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup shredded ricotta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add marinara sauce to the skillet and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti pasta, sausage mixture, and ricotta cheese. Mix well.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick and Easy Shrimp Scampi
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this speedy shrimp scampi recipe that’s ready in under 10 minutes! Succulent shrimp, garlic, and lemon come together in a flavorful sauce that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through.
5. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, white wine (if using), and lemon juice.
7. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2 minutes or until slightly thickened.
8. Return the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
10. Serve immediately over cooked pasta, rice, or as a standalone dish.
Cooking Time: 7-9 minutes
Homestyle Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes
A classic comfort food combination that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. This recipe yields a juicy meatloaf smothered in a rich ketchup-based glaze, served alongside creamy mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– 1/4 cup ketchup
For the Mashed Potatoes:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, salt, black pepper, paprika, and ketchup. Mix until just combined.
3. Shape mixture into a loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. Meanwhile, boil potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with milk, butter, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve meatloaf sliced alongside mashed potatoes.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful Caprese-stuffed breast recipe. The combination of juicy chicken, creamy mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, and fresh basil creates a mouthwatering dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the Caprese mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed breasts.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Red Curry with Coconut Milk
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this creamy and aromatic red curry recipe. Made with a blend of spices, coconut milk, and your choice of protein or vegetables, this dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 teaspoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, bamboo shoots, etc.)
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken or tofu, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; cook until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Add curry paste; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Pour in coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
5. Add mixed vegetables and cooked protein; cook until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies
In this recipe, juicy sausage and colorful vegetables come together on one sheet pan for a quick and easy dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
– 4 sausages (any variety, such as chicken apple or Italian-style)
– 1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis, sliced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place the sausages on one half of the sheet pan, leaving some space between each sausage.
4. Arrange the bell peppers, onion, garlic, zucchinis, and carrots on the other half of the sheet pan in a single layer.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the sausages are cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic Beef Tacos with Fresh Salsa
Treat your family and friends to a flavorful Mexican-inspired meal with these classic beef tacos paired with a fresh and tangy salsa. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh salsa ingredients (see below)
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream
Fresh Salsa Ingredients:
– 2 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
2. Add chopped onion and taco seasoning; cook according to package instructions.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos with beef mixture and top with your desired toppings.
5. Prepare fresh salsa by combining diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and salt in a bowl.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe. The earthy flavor of portobello mushrooms pairs perfectly with the tanginess of feta cheese and the freshness of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Wipe mushrooms clean with a damp cloth and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Divide the spinach-feta mixture among the mushroom caps, spooning it evenly onto each one.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Transform your slow cooker into a pulled pork paradise with this easy and mouthwatering recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup beer (optional)
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw or pickles for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine pork shoulder, brown sugar, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour in apple cider vinegar and beer (if using).
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
5. Split hamburger buns in half and spoon pulled pork onto each bun.
6. Top with coleslaw or pickles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your dinner game with these tender steak bites smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce, served alongside crispy roasted potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs beef sirloin or ribeye, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together minced garlic and softened butter.
3. Season the steak bites with salt, pepper, and paprika.
4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat; cook steak bites for 2-3 minutes per side or until browned.
5. Transfer cooked steak to a plate; reduce oven temperature to 400°F (200°C).
6. Toss potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet; roast for 20-25 minutes or until crispy.
7. Serve garlic butter steak bites atop roasted potatoes.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your outdoor gatherings with these easy-to-make shrimp skewers. Marinated in a zesty lemon-herb mixture, they’re sure to be a hit at your next barbecue or picnic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 10 wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and stir to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread 4-5 shrimp onto each skewer.
4. Grill the skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Serve immediately with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Vegetable Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce
A classic Italian dish gets a flavorful twist with this vegetable-packed lasagna, topped with a rich and creamy Béchamel sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, onions)
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Béchamel sauce (recipe below)
Béchamel Sauce:
– 3 tablespoons butter
– 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté mixed vegetables with olive oil until tender.
4. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
5. Assemble lasagna by layering cooked noodles, vegetable mixture, and Béchamel sauce (recipe below).
6. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Béchamel Sauce:
1. Melt butter in a medium saucepan.
2. Whisk in flour to form a roux; cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously; bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl
This Asian-inspired dish combines juicy chicken, savory teriyaki sauce, and fluffy rice for a satisfying meal. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy this flavorful bowl in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the chicken according to your preference (grilled, baked, or pan-seared).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce (if using), and garlic.
3. Brush the teriyaki mixture onto the cooked chicken.
4. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
5. Assemble the bowls by placing the chicken on top of the rice.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Chicken: 20-25 minutes
– Rice: 15-20 minutes
– Total: 35-45 minutes
Mediterranean Stuffed Bell Peppers
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with these colorful bell peppers filled with a delightful mix of rice, tomatoes, feta cheese, and fresh herbs. Perfect as a main course or side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, diced tomatoes, feta cheese, olive oil, onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Crispy Baked Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Elevate your snack game with these crispy baked parmesan chicken tenders, packed with flavor and crunch!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenderloins, cut into strips
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the beaten egg and then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Looking for quick and delicious meal ideas for busy weeknights? Look no further! This collection of 20 mouth-watering recipes has got you covered. From creamy pasta dishes to savory stir-fries, spicy salmon fillets to classic beef tacos, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at making cheesy baked ziti with Italian sausage, or whip up a quick and easy shrimp scampi. Maybe you’re in the mood for something international-inspired, like Thai red curry or Mediterranean stuffed bell peppers. Whatever your taste buds desire, these recipes are sure to satisfy.
