Dinner time can be a real challenge, especially on those busy weeknights when you’re short on time and ingredients. But fear not! We’ve got 20 mouth-watering quick dinner recipes to help you whip up a delicious meal in no time. From savory shrimp to succulent salmon, we’ve rounded up the best of the best to keep your taste buds happy and your belly full.
Whether you’re a seafood lover, a pasta enthusiast, or just looking for something new to try, our list has got you covered. Say goodbye to takeout and hello to homemade meals that are easy on the wallet and the clock. So go ahead, get cooking, and let’s dive into these 20 quick dinner recipes of the day!
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Garlic Butter Shrimp with Lemon Zest
A bright and flavorful seafood dish that combines succulent shrimp with the richness of garlic butter and the zestiness of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Stir in lemon juice and zest into the remaining butter mixture.
6. Serve shrimp with garlic butter sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with parsley leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Pasta
A rich and flavorful pasta dish that combines sautéed mushrooms, wilted spinach, and a creamy sauce, all tossed with al dente pasta. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in heavy cream and thyme; bring to a simmer.
5. Add wilted spinach leaves and cooked pasta; toss with reserved pasta water as needed.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies
Quick and flavorful, this one-pan wonder combines juicy chicken, sweet honey, and savory garlic with a medley of colorful vegetables for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 large bell pepper, sliced
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– 1 medium red onion, sliced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan.
4. Add garlic and honey; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add bell pepper, zucchini, and onion; cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
6. Return chicken to the pan; season with salt and pepper.
7. Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This spicy stir-fry is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch. With its bold flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or sesame oil for stir-frying
Instructions:
1. Cook beef strips according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. Heat 1-2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add broccoli, garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Add cooked beef to the stir-fry and stir until combined with vegetables.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon
Elevate your salmon game with this simple and flavorful baked Parmesan crusted recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
4. Season salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
5. Dip each fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
6. Place coated salmon on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using).
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vegetable and Chickpea Coconut Curry
This flavorful and nutritious curry combines the creaminess of coconut milk with the goodness of mixed vegetables and chickpeas, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can of chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, zucchini, and green beans)
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can of coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas and mixed vegetables; stir to combine.
5. Pour in coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and colorful twist on a classic dish! This recipe combines sweet bell peppers with creamy cheese, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, combine cooked rice, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, and olive oil. Mix well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place stuffed bell peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this bright and citrusy dish, featuring tender grilled chicken paired with crispy roasted potatoes. Perfect for a quick yet impressive meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in the marinade, coating evenly. Let sit for 15-20 minutes.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toss potato wedges with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy.
6. Serve grilled chicken with roasted potatoes and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Beef and Black Bean Tacos with Avocado Salsa
A flavorful twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines tender beef, hearty black beans, and creamy avocado salsa for a deliciously savory meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Avocado salsa (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the black beans to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning the beef and black bean mixture onto a tortilla.
Avocado Salsa:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth. Serve on top of tacos or as a dip.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this creamy, flavorful recipe that combines the best of Italy and America. Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomato create a delightful filling for juicy chicken breasts.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the Caprese mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Close the incision and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Glazed Salmon with Sesame Green Beans
This Asian-inspired dish combines sweet teriyaki glaze with savory salmon and crunchy sesame green beans, making for a quick and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
For the Teriyaki Glaze:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Salmon:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sesame Green Beans:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki glaze ingredients.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; place salmon fillets on it.
4. Brush the teriyaki glaze evenly over the salmon.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, toss green beans with sesame oil, soy sauce, and honey; spread on a separate baking sheet.
7. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the green beans; roast for 10-12 minutes or until tender.
8. Serve salmon with sesame green beans.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with these savory, flavorful mushrooms filled with a tangy spinach and feta mixture. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean the mushrooms by wiping them with a damp cloth.
3. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the spinach-feta mixture, dividing it evenly among the four caps.
5. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Pine Nuts
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and vibrant dish, featuring the classic Italian sauce pesto, combined with sweet sun-dried tomatoes and crunchy pine nuts.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/3 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a food processor or blender, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Process until well combined and slightly smooth.
3. Add the reserved pasta water and process until pesto reaches desired consistency.
4. Toss cooked pasta with pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil (if using). Season to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Get ready for tender, juicy pulled pork sandwiches infused with the rich flavors of slow-cooked BBQ sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for a crowd-pleasing meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Place the pork in a slow cooker and pour in the BBQ sauce and brown sugar.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Shred the pork with two forks and stir to combine with the juices.
5. Split the hamburger buns and spoon the pulled pork onto each bun.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Grilled Halloumi
This vibrant salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the creamy richness of grilled halloumi, all wrapped up in a colorful medley of Mediterranean vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 block halloumi cheese (about 8 oz)
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill the halloumi cheese for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, olives, artichoke hearts, and grilled halloumi.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Thai Red Curry with Tofu and Vegetables
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this simple and satisfying curry recipe. A perfect blend of creamy coconut milk, spicy red curry paste, and tender tofu and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 medium bell peppers, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bamboo shoots, Thai basil, and baby corn)
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the pan. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in curry paste and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add coconut milk, vegetable broth, and mixed vegetables to the pan. Bring to a simmer.
6. Return tofu to the pan and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer the curry for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops with Asparagus
A bright and flavorful seafood dish that combines the sweetness of scallops with the tanginess of lemon, all wrapped up in a rich garlic butter sauce. Serve with steamed asparagus for a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place scallops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with the garlic butter mixture and bake for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a separate baking sheet and roast at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 18-22 minutes
Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the creaminess of cheese with the tenderness of chicken and the crunch of broccoli, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken and broccoli in butter until cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, mix flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add mixture to chicken and broccoli; stir until well combined.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies with Mustard Glaze
This recipe combines juicy sausage, colorful veggies, and a tangy mustard glaze for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this sheet pan meal is perfect for busy families.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet or hot Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. Arrange the sausage, onion, bell peppers, and zucchinis on the prepared sheet pan.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard and honey until smooth.
6. Brush the mustard glaze over the sausage and veggies.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the sausage is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Blackened Tilapia with Mango Avocado Salsa
Elevate your seafood game with this bold and flavorful dish that combines the spiciness of blackening seasoning with the freshness of mango and avocado. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp blackening seasoning
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mango Avocado Salsa (see below)
Mango Avocado Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, blackening seasoning, and lime juice.
3. Place tilapia fillets in a shallow baking dish and brush with the blackening mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, prepare Mango Avocado Salsa by combining all ingredients in a bowl.
7. Serve blackened tilapia with Mango Avocado Salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with these 20 quick and delicious recipes! From seafood to pasta, chicken to vegetables, there’s something for everyone. Try Garlic Butter Shrimp with Lemon Zest, Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Pasta, or One-Pan Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies. Or, go international with Spicy Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry, Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Grilled Halloumi, or Thai Red Curry with Tofu and Vegetables. Whatever your taste buds desire, these recipes are sure to satisfy.
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