Are you tired of slaving away in the kitchen every night, only to produce a mediocre meal that leaves everyone feeling unimpressed? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 delicious oven recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort foods like baked mac and cheese to international-inspired dishes like teriyaki salmon with vegetables, these recipes are sure to become new favorites in your household.
Whether you’re short on time or just looking for a way to simplify mealtime, the oven is an incredibly versatile tool that can help you produce a wide range of tasty meals. And the best part? Many of these recipes require minimal preparation and cleanup, leaving you with more time to focus on the things that matter most.
In the following pages, we’ll be diving into each of these 20 recipes in detail, providing step-by-step instructions, ingredient lists, and helpful tips for making each dish a success. So grab your apron and get ready to discover a whole new world of oven-baked goodness!
Garlic Butter Roasted Chicken
Savor the rich flavors of roasted chicken infused with aromatic garlic butter, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
4. Season the chicken inside and out with salt, pepper, and thyme.
5. Stuff the cavity with the garlic butter mixture, making sure to spread it evenly throughout the chicken.
6. Place the chicken in a roasting pan, breast side up, and roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Crispy Baked Parmesan Potatoes
Get ready to elevate your potato game with this simple yet satisfying recipe! Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and packed with flavor, these baked parmesan potatoes are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a snack to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wash the potatoes thoroughly and dry them with a paper towel.
3. Slice the potatoes into 1/8-inch thick rounds.
4. In a bowl, toss the potato slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange the potato slices in a single layer, leaving some space between each slice.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the potatoes.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are crispy and golden brown.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme
This simple yet flavorful recipe elevates carrots to a new level by combining the natural sweetness of honey with the earthy flavor of thyme. Perfect as a side dish for your next dinner party or family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread carrot slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle honey over the carrots and sprinkle thyme leaves on top.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with these rich and flavorful stuffed mushrooms filled with spinach, garlic, and melted cheese. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (button or cremini work well)
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, garlic, and cheddar cheese.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth and remove stems.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the mushrooms and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Herb Salmon Foil Packets
Impress your family and friends with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the brightness of lemon, the earthiness of herbs, and the richness of salmon. All you need is a few simple ingredients and some foil!
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
3. Place a salmon fillet in the center of each piece of foil.
4. Divide the parsley, dill, lemon slices, and olive oil among the four packets.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Fold the foil over the salmon, creating a packet, and seal by folding the edges.
7. Place the packets on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Baked Ziti with Sausage and Ricotta
A hearty, satisfying casserole that combines the flavors of Italy with a comforting twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, 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 skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked ziti, sausage mixture, ricotta cheese, and egg in a large bowl. Mix well to combine.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Sprinkle with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Elevate your mealtime with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts with the savory goodness of crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. Meanwhile, cook bacon pieces in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
6. Add cooked bacon to the Brussels sprouts and toss to combine.
7. Serve hot, garnished with optional red pepper flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Easy Sheet Pan Fajitas
A quick and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch. This recipe uses just one pan and is ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into fajita-style strips
– 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
– 1/2 cup sliced onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 fajita-sized flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. In a bowl, whisk together cumin and smoked paprika (if using). Add chicken and toss to coat.
4. Arrange chicken, bell peppers, onions, and garlic on the prepared sheet pan in a single layer.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
7. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
8. Assemble fajitas with your preferred toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Classic Meatloaf with Tomato Glaze
Classic Meatloaf with Tomato Glaze Recipe
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and always a crowd pleaser, this meatloaf recipe is topped with a tangy tomato glaze for an added layer of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 egg
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tomato glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, ketchup, egg, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Transfer mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
5. While the meatloaf is baking, prepare tomato glaze by combining 1 cup ketchup, 2 tbsp brown sugar, and 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce in a bowl.
6. Remove meatloaf from oven and brush with tomato glaze. Return to oven for an additional 10-15 minutes or until glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 55-65 minutes
Herb-Crusted Pork Tenderloin
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and aromatic herb-crusted pork tenderloin recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) pork tenderloin
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme leaves
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder.
3. Season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper.
4. Rub the herb mixture all over the pork tenderloin, making sure to coat it evenly.
5. Place the pork tenderloin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumbs
Elevate the classic comfort food by adding a crunchy breadcrumb topping to your baked macaroni and cheese. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or flavored)
– Optional: chopped herbs or spices for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish.
7. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the macaroni mixture.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Bake
Elevate your dinner game with this quick and flavorful Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Bake. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and can be ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove from heat and stir in white wine (if using) and lemon juice.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the butter is melted and the shrimp are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup Recipe
Cozy up with this warm and comforting soup recipe, featuring roasted butternut squash as the star of the show. This simple and flavorful soup is perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash on a baking sheet, cut side up, and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Roast the squash for 45-50 minutes, or until caramelized and tender.
5. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
6. Add the roasted squash, broth, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using). Bring to a simmer.
7. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half for added richness.
9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
This classic casserole is a crowd-pleaser, combining the flavors of creamy cheese, steamed broccoli, and warm rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 head broccoli, steamed and chopped
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped broccoli and cook until tender.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, steamed broccoli, milk, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful one-pan recipe that combines juicy chicken, tender potatoes, and a zesty lemon-garlic sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 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 or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. Add the potatoes to the same pan, cooking until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the garlic, lemon juice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return the chicken to the pan and stir to coat with the sauce.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Teriyaki Salmon with Vegetables
A sweet and savory twist on traditional grilled salmon, this recipe combines the rich flavors of teriyaki sauce with a variety of colorful vegetables for a healthy and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the teriyaki mixture evenly over the salmon.
4. Arrange bell peppers, onion, and garlic around the salmon.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the vegetables.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Roasted Cauliflower Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of roasted cauliflower with a spicy kick. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch, these Spicy Roasted Cauliflower Tacos are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, crumbled queso fresco, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with roasted cauliflower, desired toppings, and a squeeze of lime juice (optional).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Homemade Deep-Dish Pizza
Get ready to savor a gooey, cheesy, and savory deep-dish pizza that’s sure to please! This recipe yields a thick-crusted, flavorful pie that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– Your favorite pizza toppings (e.g., pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar.
3. Add cold butter; use a pastry blender or fingers to work into a crumbly mixture.
4. Gradually add warm water; mix until dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness.
6. Place in a 9-inch deep-dish pizza pan or a cast-iron skillet.
7. Add your favorite toppings, followed by grated cheddar cheese (if using).
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal
Start your day with a delicious and comforting bowl of baked oatmeal infused with the sweet flavors of apples and cinnamon. This recipe is perfect for a chilly morning or as a quick breakfast solution.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 large apple, diced (about 1 cup)
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, milk, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until well combined.
3. Fold in vanilla extract, apple, and melted butter.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the oatmeal is set and lightly golden brown.
6. Serve warm, topped with your favorite toppings such as whipped cream, nuts, or fresh fruit.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chocolate Lava Mug Cakes
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these indulgent treats that combine the comfort of a warm cake with the thrill of a gooey chocolate center.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/2 tablespoon milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1-2 chocolate chips or chunks (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe mug, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add sugar, milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
3. If using, add 1-2 chocolate chips or chunks on top of the batter.
4. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, depending on your microwave’s power level.
5. Carefully remove mug from microwave and let cool for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
6. Enjoy the warm, gooey cake with a runny chocolate center!
Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes
Summary
Get ready to simplify your weeknights with these delicious oven recipes! From classic comfort food to innovative twists, this collection of 20 mouth-watering dishes is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Try Garlic Butter Roasted Chicken or Crispy Baked Parmesan Potatoes for a satisfying dinner. Or, indulge in sweet treats like Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal or Chocolate Lava Mug Cakes. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food, seafood, or something new and exciting, these oven recipes are sure to become staples in your kitchen.
