Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for convenience on busy weeknights? Look no further! We’ve got 20 delicious homemade dinner recipes that are quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
From hearty pasta dishes to flavorful stir-fries, and from classic comfort food to international-inspired cuisine, we’ve got something for everyone. And the best part? Each recipe can be made in under an hour, so you won’t have to sacrifice quality time with family and friends to enjoy a home-cooked meal.
In this article, we’ll dive into 20 mouth-watering recipes that will keep your taste buds happy and your belly full. From garlic butter steak to slow cooker beef bourguignon, and from vegetable stir-fry to spicy shrimp tacos, we’ve got the perfect recipe for any busy weeknight.
Garlic Butter Steak with Roasted Potatoes
A classic combination of flavors and textures, this recipe brings together the richness of garlic butter steak and the comfort of roasted potatoes. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, and thyme.
3. Season the steak with salt and pepper. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over both sides of the steak.
4. Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. Grill or pan-fry the steak to desired level of doneness (6-8 minutes per side for medium-rare).
6. Serve with roasted potatoes and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta
This comforting pasta dish combines sautéed chicken, mushrooms, and a rich cream sauce, all served over cooked fettuccine. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add mushrooms, onion, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to coat with sauce.
6. Combine cooked pasta with the creamy mushroom chicken mixture. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Lemon Garlic Salmon with Asparagus
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this quick and flavorful one-pan wonder. Pan-seared salmon fillets are cooked to perfection with a zesty lemon garlic sauce and tender asparagus spears.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add salmon fillets, lemon juice, chicken broth, mustard, salt, and pepper. Cook for 4-5 minutes or until salmon is cooked through.
4. Add asparagus to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until tender.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
This classic French dish is a staple of comfort food, and our slow cooker version makes it easy to prepare without sacrificing flavor. This rich and savory stew is perfect for a cold winter’s night or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Burgundy or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine beef, onion, garlic, mushrooms, wine, broth, tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaf.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Remove the bay leaf and serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Vegetable Stir-Fry with Homemade Teriyaki Sauce
Elevate your stir-fry game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines fresh vegetables with a rich homemade teriyaki sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and ginger. Set aside.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add sliced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add bell pepper, carrot, and broccoli; cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
5. Pour the homemade teriyaki sauce into the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Cook for an additional minute, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema
Add a spicy kick to your tacos with this flavorful recipe featuring succulent shrimp, crispy tortillas, and a tangy avocado crema. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Avocado Crema (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced red onion, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, lime juice, and garlic.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove shrimp from marinade and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with cooked shrimp, Avocado Crema, and desired toppings.
Avocado Crema:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Combine ingredients in a bowl and mix until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Margherita Pizza with Fresh Basil
This iconic Italian pizza is a masterclass in simplicity, featuring just a few quality ingredients that come together to create a truly unforgettable taste experience. With fresh basil adding a bright and herbaceous note, this homemade margherita pizza is the perfect way to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 1/2 cup San Marzano tomatoes, crushed by hand
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Mozzarella cheese, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Place the dough on a floured surface and shape into a circle or rectangle.
6. Spread crushed tomatoes over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
7. Top with mozzarella cheese and chopped basil leaves.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this simple yet flavorful baked parmesan crusted chicken recipe. With a crunchy exterior and juicy interior, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 egg, beaten
– Olive oil, for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and oregano.
3. Dip each chicken breast into the beaten egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Serve hot and enjoy!
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese-inspired stir-fry is a quick and flavorful way to prepare tender beef and crisp broccoli. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch, this recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, onion, and garlic. Cook until onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add broccoli to the pan and cook until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return beef strips to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
This recipe combines the flavors of fresh spinach, creamy ricotta cheese, and tender pasta to create a delicious and satisfying dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the spinach-ricotta mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Red Curry with Coconut Milk and Vegetables
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this simple recipe for Red Curry with Coconut Milk and Vegetables. This aromatic curry is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas)
– 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add bell pepper and cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in curry paste and cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk and add mixed vegetables; stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Classic Homemade Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes
Classic Homemade Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes Recipe
This timeless comfort food dish combines tender meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes for a satisfying and filling meal. With just the right balance of flavors and textures, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Transfer mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper. Top with additional breadcrumbs if desired.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. Meanwhile, boil chopped potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with milk and butter.
6. Serve meatloaf with mashed potatoes and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Quinoa
This refreshing recipe combines the brightness of lemon and herbs with the tender texture of grilled chicken, served over a bed of nutty quinoa. Perfect for a light and flavorful meal or as a main course for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
6. Serve grilled chicken over quinoa.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegetable Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce
This recipe is a creative twist on the classic Italian dish, featuring a rich béchamel sauce and a medley of sautéed vegetables. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this lasagna is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, carrots, and mushrooms)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the mixed vegetables, onion, and garlic until tender.
4. In a separate saucepan, make the béchamel sauce by melting butter, then whisking in flour and milk. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
5. Assemble the lasagna by layering cooked noodles, vegetable mixture, and béchamel sauce. Top with Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Pan-Seared Pork Chops with Apple Compote
Savor the combination of tender pork chops and sweet apple compote, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1 inch thick)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup apples (Granny Smith or Golden Delicious), peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
3. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, in a separate saucepan, sauté sliced onions and minced garlic over medium heat until caramelized.
5. Add diced apples, chicken broth, and honey to the saucepan. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the apples are tender.
6. Serve the pan-seared pork chops with the warm apple compote spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
This comforting dish is a staple of home cooking, featuring tender chicken and vegetables in a rich creamy sauce topped with a flaky pie crust. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken and butter until browned.
3. Add onion, garlic, and mixed vegetables; cook until tender.
4. Mix in flour, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to fit your baking dish.
6. Pour the filling into the pastry-lined dish.
7. Brush edges with egg wash (beaten egg + 1 tablespoon water) and fold crust over filling.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Black Bean and Sweet Potato Enchiladas
Experience the flavors of Mexico with this delicious twist on traditional enchiladas. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the savory flavor of black beans, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast sweet potatoes in the oven for 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add black beans and cook until heated through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble enchiladas by filling each tortilla with sweet potato mixture, then rolling up and placing seam-side down in a baking dish. Pour enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with cheese.
6. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa
This refreshing summer recipe combines the smoky flavor of grilled salmon with the sweet and tangy taste of mango salsa, making it a perfect dish for outdoor gatherings or weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup cilantro leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Grill salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro in a bowl.
5. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
6. Serve grilled salmon with mango salsa spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff over Egg Noodles
This classic Russian dish combines tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and creamy sauce with egg noodles for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup egg noodles
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add mushrooms and garlic. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start browning, about 5 minutes.
4. Add broth, heavy cream, mustard, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Return beef to the skillet and simmer until coated with sauce, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve beef mixture over cooked egg noodles. Garnish with parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Roasted Vegetable and Chickpea Buddha Bowl
A hearty and nutritious bowl filled with roasted vegetables, creamy chickpeas, and a hint of Middle Eastern flair. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together sweet potato, carrot, bell pepper, and onion with olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 30-35 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
4. In a medium pan, heat chickpeas over medium heat with garlic and a pinch of salt until heated through.
5. To assemble the Buddha bowls, divide roasted vegetables among bowls, followed by chickpea mixture, and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Are you tired of the same old weeknight dinners? Look no further! This article presents 20 mouth-watering homemade dinner recipes that are perfect for busy nights. From classic comfort foods like beef and broccoli stir-fry and meatloaf, to flavorful international dishes like Thai red curry and black bean enchiladas, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these easy-to-make recipes will become your new go-to’s. So why settle for takeout when you can have a delicious homemade dinner in no time?
Leave a Reply