Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen every night, only to end up with a mediocre meal? Look no further! We’ve got 20 delicious and easy-to-make dinner recipes that are sure to become staples in your household. From classic comfort foods like pasta and risotto to international-inspired dishes like Thai red curry and Mexican street corn chicken casserole, there’s something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, featuring quick and easy meals that can be ready in no time. Whether you’re short on time or looking for some inspiration for your next dinner party, these recipes are sure to impress. So sit back, relax, and let’s get cooking!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
This mouthwatering pasta dish combines succulent shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a flavorful and impressive dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Add white wine (if using) and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti and garlic butter sauce in the skillet. Toss to coat.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Chicken Alfredo
This classic Italian-American dish gets a modern twist with this one-pot recipe, where fettuccine pasta, juicy chicken, and rich Alfredo sauce come together in a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil; cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over chicken and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, whisking constantly. Bring sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Add cooked pasta and reserved pasta water to the pot. Toss everything together until well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s ready in no time! This beef and broccoli stir-fry is a flavorful and nutritious option for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, garlic, broccoli, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return beef to the pan and stir to combine with the vegetables and sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Honey Glazed Salmon
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and spicy salmon recipe that combines the richness of honey with a kick of heat.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Fresh green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the glaze all over each fillet, making sure they’re fully coated.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vegetable Fried Rice
A classic Chinese dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor! This Vegetable Fried Rice recipe is a great way to use up leftover vegetables and rice, or to make a healthy and delicious meal from scratch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until they’re tender-crisp.
4. Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the pan. Crack an egg into the other side; scramble it until cooked through, then mix with the vegetables.
5. Add cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until rice is heated through and starting to brown.
6. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the fried rice to a serving platter; garnish with chopped green onions (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Risotto
A rich and comforting Italian-inspired dish, this Creamy Mushroom Risotto is a perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown (about 5 minutes).
4. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add white wine (if using); stir until absorbed.
6. Warm broth in a separate pot. Add 2 tablespoons at a time to the saucepan; stir continuously until absorbed before adding more.
7. Stir in butter and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes, or when rice is creamy and cooked through.
BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with these mouthwatering BBQ pulled pork sandwiches! Slow-cooked to perfection, the tender pork is infused with a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw or pickles, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the pork shoulder in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker. Pour the BBQ mixture over the pork, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Cook for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Using two forks, pull apart the pork into bite-sized pieces.
6. Split hamburger buns in half and toast lightly.
7. Spoon pulled pork onto the buns and serve with coleslaw or pickles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
A bright and citrusy twist on classic grilled chicken, this recipe combines the flavors of lemon, garlic, and herbs for a deliciously savory dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush the lemon herb mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Baked Ziti
This recipe is a staple of Italian-American cuisine, combining the flavors of tomato sauce, melted cheese, and al dente pasta. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a satisfying and comforting dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine marinara sauce and olive oil. Stir in shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of the pasta, followed by a layer of the cheesy sauce, and repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top layer. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes
Thai Red Curry with Vegetables
A flavorful and aromatic Thai-inspired curry dish that combines the richness of red curry paste with a medley of colorful vegetables, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green beans, and onions)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in curry paste; cook for 30 seconds until slightly darkened.
4. Add coconut milk, mixed vegetables, salt, and pepper; stir well to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves; serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies
A flavorful and easy one-pan meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian-style sausages (sweet or hot)
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 2 large zucchinis, sliced
– 1 large yellow squash, sliced
– 1 large red onion, peeled and sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a sheet pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
3. Place the sausages on one half of the sheet pan, leaving some space between each sausage.
4. Arrange the sliced bell pepper, zucchinis, and squash around the sausages.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables and sprinkle with garlic, salt, and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the sausages are browned and the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Beef Skewers
Perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these teriyaki beef skewers are a great way to enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of Asian-inspired cuisine. With just a few simple ingredients and some easy preparation, you’ll be grilling up a delicious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
3. Thread beef cubes onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the teriyaki mixture evenly over the beef.
5. Place skewers on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until beef reaches desired level of doneness.
6. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes per side
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and moist chicken breast recipe, packed with the perfect blend of spinach and feta cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 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: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, and garlic.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the spinach mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Street Corn Chicken Casserole
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this creamy, cheesy casserole that combines the best of street corn and chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup cream-style corn
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas, torn into pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In a separate pot, combine thawed corn kernels, cream-style corn, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook over low heat for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, corn mixture, cheddar cheese, and cilantro. Mix well.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Add half of the torn tortillas, followed by the chicken-corn mixture, and top with the remaining tortilla pieces.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken Parmesan with Spaghetti
This timeless Italian-American dish combines crispy breaded chicken, rich marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese served over a bed of tender spaghetti. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
3. Dip chicken in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs.
4. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
5. In a baking dish, combine marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
6. Add breaded chicken on top of the sauce mixture.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted.
8. Serve with cooked spaghetti.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Beef Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful recipe featuring tender beef and creamy avocado salsa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for cooking
– Avocado Salsa ingredients (see below)
Avocado Salsa:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add diced onion and taco seasoning; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning beef mixture onto tortillas.
5. Top with Avocado Salsa, your favorite toppings, and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Grits
Get ready for a flavorful twist on the classic Southern dish! This Cajun-inspired shrimp and grits recipe combines succulent shrimp with spicy sausage, creamy cheese, and a hint of heat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 pound andouille sausage, sliced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions or by bringing the water/broth to a boil, then reducing heat and simmering for 20-25 minutes.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add shrimp, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until shrimp are pink, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in Cajun seasoning and cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked grits with shrimp mixture and top with cheddar cheese.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet and Sour Pork
This classic Chinese-American dish is a staple of takeout menus everywhere. With its tangy sweet and sour sauce, crispy pork, and crunchy vegetables, it’s an easy-to-make treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork tenderloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, mushrooms)
– 1/4 cup sweet and sour sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add mixed vegetables to the pan and stir-fry until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the sauce over the pork and vegetables, stirring to coat.
6. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Chicken with Roasted Vegetables
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines juicy chicken breasts with a vibrant pesto sauce, served alongside a medley of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly made basil pesto
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 large bell pepper, sliced
– 1 large red onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pesto, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the pesto mixture.
4. Roast vegetables in a separate baking dish with olive oil, salt, and pepper until tender, about 20-25 minutes.
5. Place chicken in the oven and roast for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve chicken breasts with roasted vegetables and garnish with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Classic Beef Stroganoff
This hearty dish is a staple of Russian cuisine, featuring tender beef strips cooked with mushrooms and a rich sauce, served over egg noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms and flour; stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add beef broth and heavy cream, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve over cooked egg noodles.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with these 20 quick and delicious recipes! From classic comfort foods like Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta and Cheesy Baked Ziti, to international inspirations such as Thai Red Curry with Vegetables and Teriyaki Beef Skewers, there’s something for everyone. Impress your family with One-Pot Chicken Alfredo or Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies. Try something new with Spicy Honey Glazed Salmon or Cajun Shrimp and Grits. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or a flavorful adventure, these recipes are sure to satisfy!
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