30 Easy Weeknight Dinners You’ll Actually Look Forward To

After a long day, the last thing any of us wants is a complicated dinner. That’s why I’ve pulled together easy weeknight meals that are simple to make, taste amazing, and won’t leave you stuck in the kitchen. These recipes are the kind you’ll actually look forward to and they’re quick enough to keep up with your busiest nights.

Crock Pot Chili for Two

Perfect for cozy evenings, this chili is a hearty and flavorful meal that’s easy to throw together. It’s ideal for those nights when you need a warm, comforting dinner without a lot of fuss. With a few hours in the crock pot, it delivers a depth of flavor that tastes like it took much longer. Packed with spices and tender meat, this chili is a great way to make any weeknight feel special. It’s a small-batch recipe, so there’s no need to worry about leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Chili for Two

Vegan Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

These stuffed sweet potatoes offer a fresh twist on taco night, with a blend of bold seasonings and creamy toppings that make them hard to resist. They’re a satisfying option for weeknights when you want something filling but not too heavy. The simple ingredients make this an affordable and convenient dinner choice. It’s easy to put together and bakes while you unwind, saving you from long prep times. This recipe brings together comfort and convenience in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Chicken Nuggets

These homemade chicken nuggets are a reliable dinner that’s sure to be a family favorite. They’re easy to make, using basic ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen. Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, these nuggets come together quickly, making them perfect for busy nights. Skip the takeout and enjoy a comforting meal that’s as fun as it is satisfying. Kids and adults alike will look forward to this classic dish.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Nuggets

Cream Cheese Chicken

This creamy chicken dish is packed with rich flavors and is simple enough for a weeknight dinner. The addition of cream cheese gives it a velvety texture that’s hard to beat, and it pairs well with rice or pasta. Ideal for nights when you crave something filling and flavorful, this recipe doesn’t demand much time or effort. It’s a dependable choice that’s easy to prepare, making it a go-to for busy weeks. Perfect for adding variety to your regular dinner lineup.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Chicken

Shrimp Macaroni Salad

This shrimp macaroni salad is a refreshing yet hearty option that combines seafood and pasta for a tasty weeknight meal. Lightly seasoned and packed with flavor, it’s a convenient way to enjoy a seafood-inspired dinner. It can be served as a main dish or a side, making it versatile enough for different meal plans. With its quick prep, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to make this salad a regular part of your menu. Ideal for warm nights or when you need something light and easy.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Macaroni Salad

Sheet Pan Salmon and Vegetables

A balanced and wholesome dinner, this sheet pan salmon with vegetables is perfect for weeknights when you want something nutritious and easy. With everything cooking on one pan, cleanup is simple, and you get a complete meal in minimal time. The salmon stays tender while the vegetables roast to perfection, creating a satisfying combination of flavors. It’s a reliable recipe you’ll come back to time and again. A great choice for busy evenings when you still want something fresh.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Salmon and Vegetables

Whole Chicken in Air Fryer

Cooking a whole chicken in the air fryer is surprisingly quick and results in juicy, flavorful meat with crispy skin. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner that feels substantial without a long cooking process. The air fryer does most of the work, freeing you up to prep any sides you want to pair with it. A great choice for a hassle-free yet impressive weeknight dinner. It’s one you’ll find yourself making often, thanks to its ease and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Whole Chicken in Air Fryer

Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites (Lechon Kawali)

These crispy pork belly bites bring restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen with minimal prep. Using the air fryer gives them a satisfying crunch while keeping the inside tender and flavorful. They’re a fantastic choice for when you’re craving something special on a weeknight but don’t want to spend too long cooking. Perfect for pairing with rice or vegetables, making a complete meal with ease. A recipe that adds variety and fun to your usual dinner rotation.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites (Lechon Kawali)

Air Fryer Tuna Melt

This air fryer tuna melt is a quick and comforting dinner that’s perfect for a busy evening. With melted cheese and seasoned tuna on toasted bread, it’s a warm, hearty option that doesn’t take long to prepare. The air fryer keeps the bread perfectly crisp, adding texture to every bite. Great for those nights when you want a reliable meal that doesn’t require much cleanup. A simple yet satisfying recipe to keep in your weekly rotation.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tuna Melt

Wet Burrito

This wet burrito is packed with seasoned meat, beans, and rice, all wrapped in a tortilla and smothered with sauce and cheese. It’s a comforting dish that’s great for nights when you’re craving something filling and flavorful. Baking it in the oven brings everything together and makes it a one-dish wonder for easy weeknight dinners. Serve it with a side of chips and salsa for a complete meal that feels like a restaurant treat. A recipe that’s worth adding to your weeknight lineup.
Get the Recipe: Wet Burrito

Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

A perfect mix of pasta, buffalo sauce, and chicken, this pasta bake is a warm, comforting option for weeknights. It has a creamy, slightly spicy flavor that pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread. This bake can be made quickly and bakes to perfection, making it ideal for busy days when you need a reliable dinner. It’s hearty enough to feed the family and can easily become a regular go-to. A great choice when you want something that feels satisfying yet easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

Pancit Bihon Guisado

This Filipino noodle dish is a tasty way to bring something unique to your weeknight dinners. With its mix of vegetables, noodles, and meat, it’s both filling and full of flavors that everyone will enjoy. It’s a simple recipe that doesn’t take too long, making it convenient for busy nights. Perfect for switching things up and bringing some variety to your weekly meals. A meal that’s easy to enjoy and a refreshing change from standard weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Pancit Bihon Guisado

Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

These baby back ribs cooked in the air fryer are a quick way to enjoy tender, flavorful ribs without the long wait. Perfect for busy nights when you’re craving BBQ but don’t have time for slow cooking. The air fryer ensures they’re crispy on the outside while staying juicy inside, creating a great balance of texture and flavor. It’s a reliable recipe for any rib lovers out there, making it an ideal addition to weeknight dinners. Enjoy BBQ flavor anytime with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

Personal Pizza

This personal pizza recipe is quick, easy, and fun for weeknights when you want something homemade without the hassle. It allows you to customize toppings, so each person gets exactly what they want. Great for a family meal that doesn’t require much prep or cleanup. You can count on this recipe to be a hit, and it’s fast enough to make even on the busiest of nights. A simple, crowd-pleasing dinner option that fits perfectly into your weekly rotation.
Get the Recipe: Personal Pizza

Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

These air fryer chicken skewers are quick to make and pack plenty of flavor in each bite. Perfect for nights when you’re looking for a hands-off cooking option that still delivers on taste. Serve them with rice, salad, or even as a standalone snack. The air fryer keeps the chicken juicy while giving it a nice char, making this an easy, dependable dinner. A great addition to any weeknight menu when you’re short on time.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

This crockpot chicken is a flavorful mix of sweet and savory, perfect for making dinner feel special with minimal effort. With just a few simple ingredients, it cooks all day and fills your home with an inviting aroma. Serve it with rice or vegetables, and you’ve got a meal everyone will look forward to. Ideal for busy days when you want a dish that’s easy to put together in the morning and ready by dinner. This recipe brings variety to your weeknight lineup with its unique flavor.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

Shrimp and Tomato Pasta

This shrimp and tomato pasta is a light yet filling option that’s perfect for busy evenings. The combination of juicy shrimp and fresh tomatoes brings a bright, refreshing taste to your dinner table. It’s a quick-cooking meal that feels special without much effort, making it ideal for weeknights. Serve it with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal. A recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again for its ease and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Tomato Pasta

Pan-Fried Pork Chops

These pan-fried pork chops are a classic dinner option that brings hearty flavors to your weeknight meals. They’re cooked to perfection in minutes, with a golden-brown crust that keeps the meat tender. Ideal for busy nights, this recipe is both quick and satisfying. Pair with mashed potatoes or a simple salad for a complete dinner. A dependable choice that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Pan-Fried Pork Chops

Chicken Pot Pie

This chicken pot pie combines a flaky crust with a warm, creamy filling that’s perfect for cozy evenings. It’s a comforting meal that feels homemade without a lot of prep, making it a great choice for weeknights. Loaded with tender chicken and vegetables, it’s a filling dinner option that can be made ahead or baked fresh. Perfect for bringing a touch of comfort to your weekly menu. A classic recipe that’s easy to enjoy any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie

Breaded Panko Pork Chops

Breaded with panko, these pork chops have a crispy texture that adds variety to your weeknight dinners. They’re cooked quickly and require minimal prep, so they’re ideal for busy days. Serve with vegetables or potatoes for a balanced meal that doesn’t need much fuss. This recipe is a great way to change up your usual pork chop routine with something a little more fun. A dependable dinner option that you’ll find yourself coming back to often.
Get the Recipe: Breaded Panko Pork Chops

Air Fryer Chicken Legs

These air fryer chicken legs come out crispy and flavorful, making them a popular option for weeknight meals. They’re easy to prepare and require just a few basic ingredients, making this recipe both affordable and convenient. The air fryer keeps the legs juicy while adding a crispy exterior, so you get the perfect texture in each bite. Serve with your favorite sides for a meal that’s sure to please. A quick and reliable dinner option for any busy night.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Legs

Baked Lemon Butter Fish

This baked fish with lemon butter is a light, flavorful meal that’s perfect for weeknights. It’s easy to prepare and bakes quickly, making it an ideal option when you need something wholesome and quick dinner. The lemon butter adds a refreshing taste that complements the fish perfectly. Serve with rice or a side salad for a complete meal that feels fresh and balanced. A dependable recipe for any weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Baked Lemon Butter Fish

Braised Short Ribs

These braised short ribs bring deep, comforting flavors to your table with minimal effort. They cook slowly, allowing the meat to become tender and infused with a rich sauce. Ideal for nights when you want a hands-off recipe that still feels like a treat. Serve with mashed potatoes or your favorite veggies for a complete, satisfying dinner. This recipe is perfect for adding a bit of variety to your weeknight meals.
Get the Recipe: Braised Short Ribs

Popcorn Chicken

This homemade popcorn chicken is a fun and easy meal that’s perfect for weeknights. With a crispy exterior and juicy bite-sized pieces, it’s a recipe that everyone will look forward to. It cooks quickly and is ideal for dipping, making it a family-friendly dinner option for busy evenings. Serve with a side of fries or a salad to round out the meal. A dependable choice that’s both simple and enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Popcorn Chicken

Steak Pizzaiola

This steak pizzaiola combines tender steak with a flavorful tomato sauce, perfect for nights when you want something hearty. The sauce adds depth without a lot of fuss, and it pairs well with pasta or rice. It’s a quick recipe that brings variety to your dinner table while keeping things simple. Ideal for when you want a meal that feels special but doesn’t take all night. A reliable recipe to add to your weeknight rotation.
Get the Recipe: Steak Pizzaiola

Garlic Butter Steak Bites

These garlic butter steak bites are a quick, flavorful dinner option that’s perfect for busy evenings. The bite-sized pieces cook fast, making it easy to have a satisfying meal on the table in no time. Serve with veggies or potatoes for a balanced, comforting meal. The garlic butter adds just the right amount of flavor, making this a go-to recipe for steak lovers. An easy way to bring something different to your weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Ground Pork Tacos

These ground pork tacos are a quick and flavorful way to change up your taco night routine. With simple seasonings and fresh toppings, they’re an easy way to add variety to your weeknight meals. Serve with rice or beans for a complete dinner that’s ready in minutes. Great for nights when you want a fun, easy meal without much prep. A crowd-pleasing recipe you’ll want to keep on hand.
Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Tacos

Easy Beef Stew

This beef stew is a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something warm and filling. The meat and vegetables simmer together, creating a rich, hearty broth that’s ideal for cooler nights. It’s a hands-off recipe that doesn’t require much prep, making it great for busy schedules. Serve with crusty bread for a complete dinner that feels like a treat. A dependable choice for any evening.
Get the Recipe: Easy Beef Stew

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

This Cracker Barrel-inspired meatloaf brings comfort food to your table with a familiar flavor everyone will enjoy. It’s easy to prepare and bakes up tender, with a glaze that adds just the right touch of sweetness. Perfect for weeknights when you need a filling, easy-to-make dinner. Serve with mashed potatoes or vegetables for a classic meal that feels like home. A recipe you’ll find yourself making often.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

This slow cooker pepper steak is a hands-off dinner that brings tender beef and fresh vegetables together in a flavorful sauce. It’s a great choice for nights when you don’t have time to cook, but still want something warm and satisfying. Serve over rice for a complete meal that’s filling and easy to enjoy. The slow cooker does most of the work, so you can come home to a meal that’s ready to serve. A reliable recipe that makes weeknights easier.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pepper Steak