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    Home / Roundups

    29 Easy Dinners That Will Make Your Life So Much Simpler

    By Lisa MarcAurele · Feb 20, 2025 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    Dinner doesn’t have to be complicated, especially when life is already busy enough. I love having a few go-to meals that come together fast, taste great, and don’t leave me stuck in the kitchen for hours. These easy dinners take the stress out of mealtime, so you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying the food.

    A close-up of a stew with beef chunks, carrots, peas, and potatoes, garnished with herbs.
    Easy Beef Stew. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

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    Ground Pork Tacos

    Two pork tacos on a white plate with lime wedges.
    Ground Pork Tacos. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These tacos come together fast, making them a great option when you need dinner without a lot of prep. The seasoned ground pork pairs well with your favorite toppings, so everyone can customize their plate. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend, this meal fits right in. Serve with warm tortillas for a dish that’s both easy and satisfying. A simple way to get a homemade meal on the table without spending all night in the kitchen.
    Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Tacos

    Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos

    Two tacos on a plate with a bowl of guacamole.
    Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Let the slow cooker do the work while you go about your day. This chicken turns out tender and full of flavor, making it perfect for easy tacos. Just add your favorite toppings, and dinner is ready. It’s a great way to have a meal prepped ahead of time without any last-minute stress. A smart choice for those nights when you need a meal that’s ready when you are.
    Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos

    Slow Cooker Pork Roast

    A plate with roasted pork, sliced carrots, and potatoes on a woven mat, with a fork and knife beside the dish. A slow cooker is partially visible in the background.
    Slow Cooker Pork Roast. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This pork roast cooks slowly until it’s tender and full of flavor. The slow cooker takes care of everything, so you don’t have to watch the stove. Serve it with simple sides for a meal that feels homemade without the extra effort. Whether for a casual dinner or something a little special, it fits right in. A reliable option when you want a hearty meal without spending hours cooking.
    Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Roast

    Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon

    A plate of salmon on a white plate with lemon slices on it.
    Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This sauce brings out the best in salmon with a rich, buttery flavor. It’s simple to make and pairs well with any side you like. Drizzle it over-baked or grilled salmon for an easy upgrade to dinner. It’s the kind of sauce that makes a meal feel complete without extra hassle. A great way to add something special to your plate while keeping dinner stress-free.
    Get the Recipe: Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon

    Easy Beef Stew

    Beef stew in yellow bowls.
    Easy Beef Stew. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This hearty stew comes together with simple ingredients and minimal effort. The beef turns tender as it simmers, creating a meal that’s both filling and easy to prepare. It’s perfect for chilly nights when you need something warm without spending all evening in the kitchen. Serve with bread or rice for a complete meal. A dependable option when you want a dinner that practically cooks itself.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Beef Stew

    Alfredo Steak Pasta

    Alfredo steak pasta in skillet with wooden spoon.
    Alfredo Steak Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This pasta dish brings together tender steak and creamy Alfredo sauce for a meal that’s both simple and satisfying. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but feels like something you’d order at a restaurant. Serve it with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete dinner. Everything comes together easily, making it perfect when you need something special without the extra effort. A great go-to meal when you want dinner to be both easy and comforting.
    Get the Recipe: Alfredo Steak Pasta

    Air Fryer Tuna Melt

    A grilled cheese tuna sandwich is cut in half on a plate.
    Air Fryer Tuna Melt. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    The air fryer makes this tuna melt crisp on the outside and warm on the inside without much effort. It’s a quick meal that works for lunch or dinner, and you don’t even need to turn on the stove. With melty cheese and a toasted bun, it’s a simple dish that delivers. Serve with a side of chips or a salad for a no-fuss meal. A great choice when you need something filling without spending too much time in the kitchen.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tuna Melt

    Baked Stuffed Pork Chops

    A plate of pork chops stuffed with mushrooms and cheese served with green beans.
    Baked Stuffed Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These pork chops come out tender and full of flavor thanks to a simple stuffing. Baking keeps the process hands-off, making it an easy dinner option. They pair well with mashed potatoes or a simple vegetable side. Whether for a weeknight or a special occasion, this meal is both practical and satisfying. A great way to serve a hearty dish without overcomplicating your evening.
    Get the Recipe: Baked Stuffed Pork Chops

    Grilled Shrimp Skewers

    Grilled shrimp skewers with red and green bell peppers, served with lemon wedges and a dipping sauce on a white plate.
    Grilled Shrimp Skewers. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These shrimp skewers cook fast and come out perfectly every time. The grill gives them great flavor while keeping the process simple. Serve them with rice, salad, or grilled vegetables for a meal that’s light but filling. They’re easy enough for a quick dinner yet feel like something you’d order at a restaurant. A great choice when you want something fresh and flavorful without extra work.
    Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Skewers

    Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

    Meatloaf on a white plate with a fork.
    Cracker Barrel Meatloaf. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This meatloaf is packed with flavor and bakes up perfectly every time. It’s a simple, hearty dish that works well for any night of the week. Serve it with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. The easy prep makes it a great option when you want something homemade without a lot of effort. A solid choice for a comforting dinner that doesn’t take much work.
    Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

    Mexican Steak Pizza

    Close-up of a cheesy Mexican steak pizza on a wooden spatula.
    Mexican Steak Pizza. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This pizza combines seasoned steak with bold flavors for a meal that’s both quick and satisfying. The toppings come together easily, making it perfect for busy nights. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this dish fits right in. Serve it with a simple side salad for an easy meal. A great way to bring something different to the table without overcomplicating dinner.
    Get the Recipe: Mexican Steak Pizza

    Cream Cheese Chicken

    A plate with chicken and green beans on it.
    Cream Cheese Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This chicken dish is creamy, flavorful, and incredibly simple to put together. Everything cooks up in one dish, making cleanup just as easy as preparation. Serve it with rice, pasta, or a simple side for a meal that feels complete without extra effort. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or the whole family, it’s a reliable option. A smart choice when you want dinner to be hassle-free but still full of flavor.
    Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Chicken

    Garlic Butter Steak Bites

    A bowl of meat and green peppers with a spoon.
    Garlic Butter Steak Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These steak bites cook quickly in a rich garlic butter sauce, making them perfect for a fast and filling meal. They pair well with rice, potatoes, or vegetables for a simple yet hearty dinner. The recipe keeps things easy while still delivering plenty of flavor. Whether for a main course or a shareable dish, they come together with minimal effort. A great way to serve steak without the hassle of a complicated recipe.
    Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Steak Bites

    Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

    A bowl of rice and chicken in front of a crockpot.
    Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This slow cooker chicken turns out tender and full of flavor with minimal effort. The sweet and savory sauce makes it a great pairing for rice or vegetables. Since the slow cooker does the work, it’s perfect for busy days when you don’t have time to cook. It’s an easy way to get a homemade meal on the table with very little prep. A simple dinner option that’s both reliable and full of flavor.
    Get the Recipe: Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

    Shrimp Macaroni Salad

    Shrimp macaroni salad in a pink bowl with lemon wedges.
    Shrimp Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This pasta salad is packed with shrimp and a creamy dressing, making it a great choice for an easy meal. It works well as a main dish or a side, depending on what you need. The simple ingredients come together quickly, so you don’t have to spend much time in the kitchen. Whether for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, it’s a dish that fits into any schedule. A go-to recipe when you need something quick but still filling.
    Get the Recipe: Shrimp Macaroni Salad

    Panko Chicken Breast

    Panko chicken on a white plate.
    Panko Chicken Breast. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These crispy chicken breasts come together quickly with a simple breading. They bake up golden brown, giving you great texture without much effort. Serve them with vegetables, salad, or a simple side for a meal that works any night of the week. The prep is minimal, making this a stress-free option when you need dinner fast. A reliable way to make a homemade meal without a lot of steps.
    Get the Recipe: Panko Chicken Breast

    Stuffed Flank Steak Pinwheels

    Stuffed steak pinwheels sliced on platter.
    Stuffed Flank Steak Pinwheels. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These steak pinwheels look impressive but are surprisingly simple to prepare. The filling adds plenty of flavor, making each bite worth it. Since they cook quickly, they’re a great option when you want something special without spending too much time in the kitchen. Serve with a side of vegetables or potatoes for a meal that feels complete. A great choice when you want something hearty without too much effort.
    Get the Recipe: Stuffed Flank Steak Pinwheels

    Frito Chili Pie

    A plate of Fritos topped with ground beef, cheese, tomatoes, beans, and green onions.
    Frito Chili Pie. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This dish layers crunchy chips with a hearty chili for a meal that’s both simple and filling. It’s easy to put together, making it perfect for a fast dinner. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a hit for any occasion. Serve it straight from the pan for a no-fuss meal that everyone will enjoy. A smart option when you need dinner to come together with little effort.
    Get the Recipe: Frito Chili Pie

    Ground Pork Burgers

    Close-up of  grilled pork burger patties stacked on a white plate.
    Ground Pork Burgers. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These burgers come together quickly with seasoned ground pork, making them a great choice for a homemade meal. They cook up juicy and pair well with any toppings you like. Serve them with fries, a salad, or a simple side for a complete dinner. Whether on the grill or stovetop, they’re an easy way to make a filling meal. A perfect option when you want something simple that still feels like a treat.
    Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Burgers

    Pancit Bihon Guisado

    A fork lifting a portion of chicken and noodles from a bowl of stir-fry.
    Pancit Bihon Guisado. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This stir-fried noodle dish is packed with vegetables and protein for a meal that comes together fast. It’s a great way to make a satisfying dinner without a long cooking time. The flavors blend well, and the simple ingredients make it easy to prepare. Whether for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion, it works every time. A solid choice when you need something filling but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
    Get the Recipe: Pancit Bihon Guisado

    Filipino Spaghetti

    A bowl of spaghetti topped with a rich meat sauce placed on a red and white checkered tablecloth.
    Filipino Spaghetti. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This spaghetti dish is rich, slightly sweet, and incredibly easy to make. The sauce comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy nights. Serve it with garlic bread or a side salad for a meal that feels complete. Whether cooking for yourself or a crowd, it’s a dish that always delivers. A great option when you need a simple but flavorful dinner.
    Get the Recipe: Filipino Spaghetti

    Oven Baked Pork Steaks

    Oven baked pork steak on a plate with green beans and a fork on the side.
    Oven Baked Pork Steaks. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These pork steaks bake up tender and flavorful with minimal prep. The hands-off cooking method makes them a great option for a stress-free dinner. Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables for a well-rounded meal. The simplicity of this dish makes it perfect for any night of the week. A reliable way to get a hearty dinner on the table without extra hassle.
    Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Pork Steaks

    Slow Cooker Pork Loin

    Pork tenderloin on a cutting board next to a slow cooker.
    Slow Cooker Pork Loin. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This slow cooker pork loin turns out juicy and flavorful with hardly any work. It’s a great meal for busy days when you want something filling without much effort. Serve it with roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple side for a complete dinner. Since the slow cooker does all the work, you can go about your day without worrying about dinner. A solid choice when you need a hands-off meal that still feels homemade.
    Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Loin

    Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

    Serving of buffalo chicken pasta bake with casserole dish.
    Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This pasta bake combines tender chicken with a creamy, spicy sauce for an easy dinner. Everything cooks together in one dish, making cleanup simple. The flavors blend perfectly, creating a meal that’s both filling and hassle-free. Serve with a side of bread or a salad for a complete meal. A great option when you want a dinner that’s packed with flavor but requires little effort.
    Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

    Orange Glazed Air Fryer Ham

    Sliced ham with orange slices and grapes, garnished with parsley on a platter.
    Orange Glazed Air Fryer Ham. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    The air fryer makes this ham cook up quickly while keeping it juicy and full of flavor. The orange glaze adds just the right touch, making it perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions. Since it cooks fast, it’s a great way to get dinner on the table without a long wait. Serve with potatoes or vegetables for a simple but complete meal. A smart choice when you want something flavorful without the extra work.
    Get the Recipe: Orange Glazed Air Fryer Ham

    Steak and Mushrooms with Balsamic Sauce

    A plate with steak, tomatoes and cucumbers on it.
    Steak and Mushrooms with Balsamic Sauce. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This dish brings together tender steak and mushrooms with a rich sauce that’s easy to make. It’s a simple way to get a flavorful meal on the table without much effort. The ingredients work well together, making every bite enjoyable. Serve it with rice, pasta, or vegetables for a well-rounded dinner. A great option when you want a homemade meal that doesn’t take all evening.
    Get the Recipe: Steak and Mushrooms with Balsamic Sauce

    Popcorn Chicken

    A bowl of golden brown popcorn chicken on a table.
    Popcorn Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These bite-sized pieces cook up quickly, making them a great option for a fast and easy meal. The crispy coating gives them great texture without needing complicated steps. Serve them with dipping sauces, over a salad, or with simple sides. They’re easy to make and work for both dinner and snacks. A reliable choice when you need something quick and satisfying.
    Get the Recipe: Popcorn Chicken

    Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

    Close-up of an air-fried barbecued rib with charred edges over a white plate.
    Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    The air fryer makes these ribs tender and full of flavor in less time than traditional methods. The cooking process is simple, so you don’t have to babysit the stove. Serve them with coleslaw, cornbread, or your favorite side for a complete meal. Whether for a casual dinner or a weekend treat, they always turn out well. A great option when you want ribs without the long wait.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

    Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

    Chicken bacon ranch casserole in baking dish.
    Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This casserole brings together chicken, bacon, and a creamy ranch sauce for a meal that’s both simple and filling. Everything bakes in one dish, keeping prep and cleanup to a minimum. The flavors blend well, making it a great choice for any night of the week. Serve it with a side of vegetables or bread for a well-rounded meal. A perfect choice when you need a no-fuss dinner that everyone will enjoy.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

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    About Lisa MarcAurele

    Lisa MarcAurele is a blogger and cookbook author. She created Little Bit Recipes to help people save money by minimizing leftovers when cooking for one or two people. Lisa is also a co-founder of Daily Life Travels, where you can discover new places to visit and things to do. You can sign up for her recipe emails to see all her latest content.

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