Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for speed when it comes to dinner? Look no further! We’ve got 20 quick and easy entree recipes that are perfect for busy nights. From classic comfort foods like pasta and chicken, to international flavors like Thai peanut noodles and Cajun shrimp, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these recipes are designed to be simple enough for anyone to make – even on the most hectic of evenings. And with ingredients that can usually be found in your local grocery store, you won’t have to break out your wallet (or your sanity) to get dinner on the table.
In this article, we’ll take a look at 20 delicious and easy-to-make entree recipes that are perfect for busy nights. From classic comfort foods to international flavors, there’s something for everyone. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
This recipe combines the simplicity of pasta with the richness of garlic butter sauce, perfectly cooked shrimp, and a hint of parsley. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a satisfying dinner that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice
– 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp (30ml) unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60ml) white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium 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. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and stir to deglaze. Cook for an additional 30 seconds.
5. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp mixture, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken
This recipe yields a flavorful and moist chicken dish infused with bright citrus notes and aromatic herbs, all cooked to perfection in just one pan. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium and add the lemon juice, garlic, thyme, and rosemary to the pan. Stir to combine.
6. Return the chicken to the pan and spoon some of the sauce over the top.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has reduced slightly.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s ready in no time! This recipe combines the savory flavor of beef with the crunch of broccoli, all in a delicious stir-fry.
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 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet 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 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-fry for an additional minute to combine with broccoli.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Garlic Salmon
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this creamy salmon dish, featuring garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and a hint of basil.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 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. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the salmon, then sprinkle the minced garlic and salt.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and dried basil.
6. Spoon the creamy mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies
This recipe is a flavorful and effortless way to get dinner on the table with minimal cleanup. By cooking sausage and veggies all at once on a sheet pan, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large onion, peeled and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. Place sausage on one half of the sheet pan, leaving space around each link.
4. Toss bell peppers, onion, and garlic together in a bowl. Add olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper; mix well.
5. Spread veggie mixture onto the other half of the sheet pan.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until sausage is cooked through and veggies are tender.
7. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Honey Glazed Pork Chops
Sweet and spicy flavors come together in this mouthwatering pork chop recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, these glazed pork chops are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless pork chops
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sriracha sauce, and garlic powder.
3. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
4. Place pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the pork chops.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetable Stir Fry with Tofu
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines tender tofu with a variety of colorful vegetables, all cooked to perfection in a savory sauce. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup bell pepper strips (any color)
– 1 cup carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add broccoli, bell pepper, and carrots; cook until tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
5. Return tofu to pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
6. Cook for an additional minute, then serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this mouthwatering Caprese stuffed breast, featuring creamy mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, and fragrant basil. This impressive yet easy-to-make dish is perfect for a special occasion or a dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 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 cherry tomatoes and mozzarella slices.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the tomato-mozzarella mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Sprinkle chopped basil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken breasts and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Beef Skewers
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these mouthwatering teriyaki beef skewers, perfect for a summer BBQ or potluck. The combination of tender beef, sweet teriyaki sauce, and crispy vegetables will leave everyone asking for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and vegetable oil. Add beef cubes and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Thread beef, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper onto skewers.
4. Brush with remaining marinade and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until beef is cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Portobellos
Elevate your dinner game with these savory portobello mushrooms filled with a rich and creamy spinach mixture, topped with melted cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine spinach, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Wipe clean the mushroom caps with a paper towel, then fill each cap with about 1/4 cup of the spinach mixture.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese and breadcrumbs over the filling.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the mushrooms and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your seafood with this simple and delicious recipe for Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these succulent shrimp are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and remaining 1 tablespoon of butter.
7. Pour the lemon butter sauce over the cooked shrimp and toss to coat.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chicken Alfredo Zucchini Boats
Transform zucchinis into a flavorful boat filled with tender chicken and creamy Alfredo sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving about 1/4 inch thick shells.
3. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add cooked chicken, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until heated through.
4. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the chicken mixture.
6. Place stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Chicken and Veggie Bake
Pesto Chicken and Veggie Bake: A flavorful and nutritious one-dish meal that combines chicken, vegetables, and the classic Italian sauce pesto.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto (or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– 1 medium yellow squash, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pesto and olive oil. Add chicken and toss to coat.
3. Arrange bell peppers, zucchini, and squash in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Place the chicken mixture on top of vegetables, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Top with mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
These bite-sized sliders are perfect for a backyard gathering or game-day party. Slow-cooked pork shoulder falls apart easily, smothered in tangy BBQ sauce and served on soft buns.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Pickle slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
3. Place the pork in a slow cooker with 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce.
4. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and mix with remaining BBQ sauce.
6. Split hamburger buns in half and toast.
7. Assemble sliders by placing shredded pork onto the bun, topping with coleslaw and pickle slices (if using).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Thai Peanut Noodle Bowl
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this easy-to-make noodle bowl recipe. The combination of savory peanut sauce, tender noodles, and crunchy vegetables makes for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts and cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, water, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Blend until smooth.
3. In a large skillet, heat the peanut sauce over medium heat.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender-crisp.
5. Combine cooked noodles and vegetables in the peanut sauce. Toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped peanuts and cilantro.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas
A flavorful and satisfying Mexican-inspired dish, Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas are a great option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe combines tender chicken, melted cheese, and crunchy tortillas with a rich enchilada sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, warm tortillas over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
3. In a separate pan, combine chicken, enchilada sauce, and 1 cup of the shredded cheese. Stir until well combined.
4. To assemble the enchiladas, lay a tortilla flat and spoon some of the chicken mixture onto the center. Roll up and place seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
5. Top enchiladas with remaining cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Crusted Salmon
This recipe combines the richness of parmesan cheese with the pungency of garlic to create a flavorful and savory crust on top of tender salmon fillets. Perfect for a quick and impressive dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, garlic, and parmesan cheese.
4. Place a salmon fillet on the prepared baking sheet and brush with olive oil.
5. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the salmon.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Rice
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this mouthwatering dish that combines succulent shrimp, spicy cajun seasoning, and fluffy rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp; cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the shrimp over cooked rice, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Honey Mustard Chicken
A sweet and tangy twist on classic chicken, this baked honey mustard chicken is a crowd-pleaser. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the honey mustard mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each breast and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Grilled Chicken
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the smoky taste of grilled chicken, all wrapped up in a medley of Mediterranean-inspired ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or oregano for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic; cook for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, grilled chicken, red bell pepper, onion, olives, feta cheese, and lemon juice. Toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley or oregano if desired.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a culinary rescue! This collection of 20 quick and easy entree recipes is perfect for busy nights when cooking seems daunting. From seafood to poultry, beef, pork, and more, these mouth-watering dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Try Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken, or Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry, among many others. With ingredients you probably already have at home, these recipes promise to be a lifesaver on those chaotic evenings when cooking from scratch feels like an impossible task.
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