Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Look no further! In this article, we’re sharing 18 delicious and easy-to-make recipes to spice up your evening meals. From savory steak dishes to flavorful seafood options, and from comforting pasta bakes to healthy vegetarian bowls, there’s something for everyone in our collection.
Whether you’re a busy professional looking for quick weeknight dinners or a foodie seeking inspiration for a special occasion, these mouthwatering recipes are sure to impress. So, grab your apron and get ready to cook up some amazing meals with us!
Stay tuned for the full list of recipes below!
Garlic Butter Herb Steak
Elevate your steak game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter and fresh herbs. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, parsley, and thyme.
3. Season the steak with salt and pepper.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over both sides of the steak.
5. Place the steak on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
6. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken
A bright and citrusy twist on classic chicken parmesan, this recipe combines the flavors of lemon, garlic, and parmesan cheese for a dish that’s both tangy and rich.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian-style or plain)
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together lemon juice, garlic, and heavy cream.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the lemon mixture, then coat with parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.
4. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Shrimp Tacos
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with these mouthwatering Spicy Shrimp Tacos! Succulent shrimp marinated in a spicy blend of chili flakes, lime juice, and garlic, then wrapped in crispy taco shells and topped with fresh cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 taco shells
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, chili flakes, cumin, paprika, lime juice, and garlic.
2. Add shrimp to the marinade; toss to coat. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove shrimp from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
5. Warm taco shells according to package instructions. Assemble tacos by placing grilled shrimp onto shells, followed by a sprinkle of cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu
A quick and flavorful stir-fry recipe that combines the tender crunch of vegetables with the protein-rich goodness of tofu. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a lazy Sunday lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to the pan; cook until onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers and broccoli; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Return tofu to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Noodles
Get ready to enjoy a satisfying meal with this classic Chinese-inspired dish. This recipe combines tender beef, crisp broccoli, and flavorful noodles for a delicious meal that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 8 oz noodles (rice noodles or egg noodles work well)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Remove beef from the skillet and set aside. Add remaining 1 tbsp of oil, garlic, broccoli, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes or until broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return beef to the skillet and stir to combine with broccoli mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve beef and broccoli mixture over cooked noodles. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells
A creamy twist on a classic pasta dish, these cheesy spinach stuffed shells are sure to become a family favorite. With a flavorful filling and a rich tomato sauce, this recipe is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 jar marinara sauce (24 oz)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
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 mixture and place in a baking dish.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and top with mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey Glazed Salmon
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet impressive honey glazed salmon recipe. This sweet and savory dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Brush the honey glaze evenly over each salmon fillet, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and garnish with parsley or thyme if desired.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
One-Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy one-pot wonder. Fettuccine, chicken, and a velvety Alfredo sauce come together in under 30 minutes for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup fettuccine pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and cooked pasta to the pot. Stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetarian Lentil Curry
A flavorful and nutritious vegetarian curry that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunchbox addition. This recipe is easy to make and packed with protein-rich lentils, aromatic spices, and a hint of warmth from the cumin.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onions, garlic, and bell pepper in a little oil until tender.
2. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes.
3. Pour in water or broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
These tender and flavorful sandwiches are perfect for a backyard gathering or casual dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be transported to the heart of American comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 onion, sliced
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and smoked paprika.
3. Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker and spoon the BBQ mixture evenly over the top.
4. Add sliced onion on top of the pork.
5. Cook for 8-10 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Using two forks, pull the pork apart into shreds.
7. Split hamburger buns in half and toast lightly.
8. Assemble sandwiches by placing pulled pork onto toasted buns, topping with coleslaw if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Add a sweet and savory twist to your grilling routine with these easy-to-make teriyaki chicken skewers. Marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, and vinegar, the chicken absorbs rich flavors that complement the charred exterior from the grill.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Brush grill with oil to prevent sticking. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with roasted vegetables, quinoa, and a hint of Mediterranean spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
3. Toss sweet potato, bell pepper, zucchini, onion, and garlic with olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
4. Fluff cooked quinoa and transfer to a serving bowl. Top with roasted vegetables and garnish with parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Chicken Enchilada Casserole
This casserole combines the richness of chicken, cheese, and enchilada sauce with the convenience of a one-dish meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup crumbled tortilla chips
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook chicken in a skillet with olive oil until browned; set aside.
3. In a separate pan, combine enchilada sauce and shredded cheese; stir until melted.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange tortilla chips in the bottom.
5. Add cooked chicken on top of tortilla chips, followed by the enchilada sauce mixture.
6. Sprinkle with cilantro and additional shredded cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this flavorful and easy recipe that combines the richness of parmesan cheese, the pungency of garlic, and the natural sweetness of roasted potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange potato wedges in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the potatoes and return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spaghetti Carbonara
This Italian classic is a rich and satisfying pasta dish that’s surprisingly quick to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a delicious carbonara in no time.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 large eggs
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 6 slices of cooked bacon or pancetta (about 3 oz)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (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 of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add cooked bacon or pancetta and cook until crispy. Remove from heat.
4. Add reserved pasta water to the egg mixture and whisk until smooth.
5. Add spaghetti to the skillet with bacon. Toss with the egg mixture until well combined.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff
This classic Russian dish combines tender beef strips with sautéed mushrooms and a rich, creamy sauce, served over egg noodles. A hearty and flavorful meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 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
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add beef strips; cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet; set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add mushrooms; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Sprinkle flour over mushroom mixture; cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually whisk in beef broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer; cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Stir in mustard; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Return cooked beef strips to skillet; stir to combine with sauce.
8. Serve over cooked egg noodles.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this simple yet impressive recipe. Fresh flavors of the Mediterranean come together in a delightful harmony, perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean the mushrooms by gently wiping with a damp cloth.
3. In a small bowl, mix together diced tomato, mozzarella cheese, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the tomato-mozzarella mixture, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the filling and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and cheese is melted.
7. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry
A flavorful and aromatic stir-fry that combines the bold flavors of Thailand with the comfort of a classic chicken dish. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan.
3. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and chopped Thai basil.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with these 18 mouth-watering recipes! From classic comfort food to international flavors, this collection has something for everyone. Indulge in Garlic Butter Herb Steak, Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken, or Spicy Shrimp Tacos. Vegetarians will love Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu and Beef and Broccoli Noodles. Other highlights include Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells, Honey Glazed Salmon, and One-Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta. Whether you’re a meat-lover or veggie enthusiast, there’s something for every taste bud in this amazing list of dinner recipes.
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