57 Easy Weeknight Meals That Prove Fast Food Is Not the Only Quick Option

Long days don’t have to end with a drive-thru dinner. Easy weeknight meals can be just as quick, cost way less, and actually taste like real food. These recipes keep things simple with minimal prep, short cook times, and ingredients that won’t send you on a wild goose chase. Less time in the kitchen means more time to relax, and cleanup won’t feel like a second job. Fast food might be easy, but these meals prove homemade can be just as effortless.

A skillet filled with spaghetti and shrimp garnished with parsley. A bowl of grated cheese, a plate, lemon slices, and parsley are nearby on the table. — Photo credit: Well Fed Baker.

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Korean Beef and Broccoli

Korean Beef and Broccoli packs a punch of bold flavors while keeping things simple. Tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a rich sauce come together fast, making it a lifesaver for easy weeknight meals. No need for takeout when you can whip this up in no time!
Get the Recipe: Korean Beef and Broccoli

Air Fryer Steak Tips

A bowl of spiced meat cubes garnished with chopped herbs, with a gold fork resting on the side. — Air Fryer Steak Tips. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

Air Fryer Steak Tips guarantee juicy, perfectly cooked bites without the hassle of a stovetop mess. With just a few minutes of cooking, this dish checks all the boxes for easy weeknight meals. Pair it with a quick side, and dinner is done!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Steak Tips

Air Fryer Tuna Melt

A grilled cheese tuna sandwich on a plate, cut in half, with melted cheese and fillings visible, accompanied by pickles and parsley. — Air Fryer Tuna Melt. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air Fryer Tuna Melt is the crispy, cheesy upgrade your sandwich lineup needs. This effortless recipe delivers warm, melty goodness in minutes—perfect for easy weeknight meals. It’s fast, filling, and way better than a plain cold sandwich!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tuna Melt

Slow Cooker Pork Loin in Crock Pot

Sliced roasted pork tenderloin garnished with fresh herbs on a wooden cutting board. — Slow Cooker Pork Loin in Crock Pot. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Slow Cooker Pork Loin lets your crock pot do the heavy lifting, so dinner is ready when you are. The result? Tender, juicy meat with rich flavor, making it an easy win for easy weeknight meals. Serve it with roasted veggies or mashed potatoes, and you’re set!
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Loin in Crock Pot

Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

Sauce being poured over a bowl of beef and bell pepper stir-fry served on white rice. — Slow Cooker Pepper Steak. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is proof that big flavor doesn’t need extra effort. Toss everything in the slow cooker, and a few hours later, you’ve got a savory, saucy meal perfect for easy weeknight meals. Serve it over rice, and watch it disappear fast!
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

Air Fryer Chicken Legs

Close-up of a crispy air fried chicken drumstick on a white plate garnished with parsley, with hot sauce in the background. — Air Fryer Chicken Legs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air Fryer Chicken Legs come out crispy on the outside and juicy inside with minimal prep. They’re a great option when you need easy weeknight meals that don’t require much effort. Just season, cook, and enjoy with your go-to sides!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Legs

Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

A blue bowl of cooked chicken breasts garnished with chopped herbs on a light fabric backdrop. — Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs are your answer to juicy, flavorful chicken without the fuss. Throw everything in the slow cooker, and dinner basically makes itself—just what easy weeknight meals should be. Serve with rice or veggies for a complete meal!
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

Crock Pot Chili for Two

Bowl of chili with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream on top. — Crock Pot Chili for Two. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Crock Pot Chili for Two brings the comfort of a slow-simmered meal without the wait. Toss in the ingredients, let the crock pot work its magic, and come home to a rich, hearty bowl of goodness. It’s the kind of no-fuss meal that makes easy weeknight meals stress-free!
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Chili for Two

Shrimp Macaroni Salad

A bowl of shrimp pasta salad garnished with lemon slices and diced vegetables. — Shrimp Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Shrimp Macaroni Salad is a cool, creamy dish that’s just right for a quick meal or side. It’s packed with tender shrimp and pasta, making it a great addition to easy weeknight meals. Serve it chilled for a refreshing break from hot dinners!
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Macaroni Salad

Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken

Plate of sliced teriyaki chicken over white rice, topped with sesame seeds, served with snap peas and carrot slices. — Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken brings sweet, sticky flavor with none of the hassle. In under 20 minutes, you’ll have a juicy, caramelized dish that’s perfect for easy weeknight meals. Serve it with rice or veggies for a fast, satisfying dinner!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken

Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

Spoonful of Hawaiian chicken served over rice. — Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken delivers bold island flavors with zero effort. Toss everything into the slow cooker, and let the magic happen while you handle life. This dish guarantees easy weeknight meals without hovering over the stove, making dinner a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

Air Fryer Marinated Chicken Breasts

Sliced and seasoned grilled chicken breast on a white plate, garnished with fresh parsley. — Air Fryer Marinated Chicken Breasts. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

Air Fryer Marinated Chicken Breasts come out juicy, golden, and packed with flavor in no time. The air fryer locks in the seasoning while keeping the process mess-free. For easy weeknight meals, this one checks all the boxes—fast, flavorful, and stress-free.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Marinated Chicken Breasts

Sheet Pan Salmon and Vegetables

A plate of baked salmon garnished with herbs, served alongside asparagus, zucchini, onions, and bell peppers. — Sheet Pan Salmon and Vegetables. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Sheet Pan Salmon and Vegetables means dinner is done in one pan with almost no cleanup. Juicy salmon and crisp-tender veggies roast together for a balanced meal in minutes. Easy weeknight meals should always be this effortless, leaving you full and free to relax.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Salmon and Vegetables

Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos in Crock Pot

Three chicken tacos with cheese, lettuce, and diced tomatoes on a white plate. — Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos in Crock Pot. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos in Crock Pot bring bold, juicy flavors to taco night without the hassle. Just toss in the ingredients, let them cook low and slow, and dinner practically serves itself. Easy weeknight meals like this mean less time cooking and more time enjoying.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos in Crock Pot

Carne Asada in the Oven

A plate of sliced carne asada with sides of white rice, black beans, and sliced avocado, garnished with a sprig of parsley. — Carne Asada in the Oven. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Carne Asada in the Oven proves you don’t need a grill for tender, flavor-packed steak. The broiler gives it that perfect char while keeping the inside juicy and rich. For easy weeknight meals, this delivers restaurant-quality flavor with half the work.
Get the Recipe: Carne Asada in the Oven

Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Dish

A spoon lifting chicken and stuffing casserole from a cast iron skillet, with a striped towel in the background. — Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Dish. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Dish packs all the flavors of Thanksgiving into one comforting meal. Creamy chicken, herby stuffing, and a baked-to-perfection finish make this an instant favorite. Easy weeknight meals should feel this cozy without the holiday prep stress.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Dish

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.

Slow Cooker Pork Roast takes the stress out of cooking with fall-apart tenderness and rich flavor. Just throw everything in the crockpot and let it do the work while you go about your day. If easy weeknight meals mean minimal effort with maximum payoff, this one nails it.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Roast

Breaded Panko Pork Chops

Close-up of a golden, breaded pork chop cut into slices. — Breaded Panko Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Breaded Panko Pork Chops bring crispy, golden perfection to the dinner table in minutes. The crunchy coating locks in the juiciness, giving every bite a satisfying contrast. Easy weeknight meals should always deliver big flavor without big effort, and this one does exactly that.
Get the Recipe: Breaded Panko Pork Chops

Lemon Butter Sauce Salmon

Grilled salmon fillet garnished with lemon slices and grated cheese on a white plate, accompanied by a red and white striped napkin. — Lemon Butter Sauce Salmon. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Lemon Butter Sauce Salmon is what happens when rich, flaky fish meets a silky, tangy sauce. The simple ingredients come together fast, making it a go-to when you need something impressive without the work. Easy weeknight meals don’t get much better than a dish that’s both quick and elegant.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Butter Sauce Salmon

Shrimp and Tomato Pasta

Grilled shrimp served over spaghetti with cherry tomatoes, fresh herbs, and lemon wedges. — Shrimp and Tomato Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Shrimp and Tomato Pasta is proof that fancy doesn’t have to be complicated. Plump shrimp, a light tomato sauce, and tender pasta make this a speedy dinner that feels special. When easy weeknight meals call for something quick but restaurant-worthy, this one delivers.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Tomato Pasta

Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet

A skillet filled with a colorful stir-fry of ground meat, bell peppers, leafy greens, and sesame seeds, with a wooden spoon resting in it. Plates and a stack of flatbreads are nearby. — Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet comes together in no time, making it perfect for easy weeknight meals. The combination of tender beef and sautéed cabbage creates a hearty dinner with minimal effort. With just one pan and simple ingredients, this dish is a total lifesaver when you need dinner fast.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet

Braised Short Ribs

Braised Short Ribs bring bold flavor and fall-apart tenderness without the hassle. Thanks to slow cooking, the meat soaks up every bit of seasoning, making it a great option for easy weeknight meals. Pair it with mashed potatoes or roasted veggies, and dinner practically makes itself.
Get the Recipe: Braised Short Ribs

Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

Close-up of a grilled barbecue rib with shiny glaze on a white plate. — Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs deliver all the flavor of slow-cooked ribs in a fraction of the time. The air fryer locks in juiciness while crisping up the edges, so you get the best of both worlds. This recipe keeps things simple, which is exactly what you need for easy weeknight meals.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

Honey Walnut Shrimp

Plate of crispy tofu pieces with walnuts and green onions, served alongside white rice. Fork on the side. — Honey Walnut Shrimp. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Honey Walnut Shrimp is the perfect mix of crispy, sweet, and creamy, and it’s shockingly easy to make. No need for takeout when you can whip this up at home in under 30 minutes. When easy weeknight meals need a little upgrade, this shrimp dish comes through every time.
Get the Recipe: Honey Walnut Shrimp

Shrimp Scampi

Grilled shrimp with garlic and herbs served with slices of toasted bread. — Shrimp Scampi. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Shrimp Scampi is buttery, garlicky, and ready in a flash, making it an easy weeknight meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Tossed with pasta or served over rice, it’s a no-fuss dinner that still feels special. Plus, it’s done in less time than it takes to scroll through takeout menus.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

Panko Crusted Cod

Breaded fish fillet served with green beans and lemon slices on a white plate. — Panko Crusted Cod. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Panko Crusted Cod bakes up golden and crisp with zero deep-frying required. It’s the kind of low-effort meal that’s ideal for easy weeknight meals but still feels like something you'd order at a seafood spot. Serve it with a squeeze of lemon, and dinner is done!
Get the Recipe: Panko Crusted Cod

Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce

Plate with baked salmon, garnished with herbs, served alongside steamed broccolini. — Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce brings fresh, tangy flavor to the dinner table in no time. This flaky, buttery fish is coated in a velvety sauce that makes every bite irresistible. When easy weeknight meals need a little extra something, this recipe steps up effortlessly.
Get the Recipe: Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce

Cream Cheese Chicken

A fork cutting into a piece of chicken served with green beans and pine nuts on a white plate. — Cream Cheese Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Cream Cheese Chicken is the ultimate comfort food with a creamy, dreamy sauce that coats every bite. The rich flavor pairs well with rice or pasta, making it a go-to when easy weeknight meals call for something extra cozy. Best of all, it’s done in just one pan, so cleanup is a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Chicken

Panko Chicken Breast

A close-up of a breaded, baked chicken breast cutlet garnished with parsley on a white plate. — Panko Chicken Breast. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Panko Chicken Breast bakes up crisp on the outside and juicy inside, proving that dinner doesn’t need to be complicated. The crunchy coating locks in flavor while keeping things light, which is exactly what you need for easy weeknight meals. Just add a side, and you’re set.
Get the Recipe: Panko Chicken Breast

Crab Pasta

Crab Pasta turns a handful of ingredients into something seriously good in under 30 minutes. The tender crab and creamy sauce create a meal that feels fancy but is ridiculously simple. If easy weeknight meals need a seafood fix, this one delivers every time.
Get the Recipe: Crab Pasta

Slow Cooker Pork Chops

Plate of slow cooked pork chops served over white rice, garnished with green onions. — Slow Cooker Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Slow Cooker Pork Chops turn a few simple ingredients into a tender, flavor-packed meal with zero effort after breakfast. Let everything simmer all day, and dinner practically makes itself—just what easy weeknight meals should be. Serve with your favorite sides, and dinner is done.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Chops

Ground Pork Tacos

An easy dish to look forward to cooking every night: a colorful taco with ground meat, shredded carrots, red cabbage, and a slice of lime on the side. — Ground Pork Tacos. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Ground Pork Tacos bring bold, savory flavors to the table in record time. Brown the pork, load up some tortillas, and dinner is handled before anyone has a chance to complain they’re hungry. Perfect for easy weeknight meals when standing over the stove all night isn’t an option.
Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Tacos

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.

Oven Baked Pork Steaks come out juicy, full of flavor, and require almost no work. Pop them in the oven while you prep a side dish, and dinner is handled with minimal cleanup. It’s exactly the kind of no-fuss meal easy weeknight meals are all about.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Pork Steaks

Beef Quesadillas

Stack of quesadillas filled with cheese and meat, garnished with herbs, served with dips on a white plate. — Beef Quesadillas. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Beef Quesadillas make dinner simple with crispy tortillas, melty cheese, and seasoned beef all coming together in one pan. Whether dinner needs to be fast or you just want to keep things stress-free, these deliver without a pile of dishes. That’s why they’re perfect for easy weeknight meals.
Get the Recipe: Beef Quesadillas

Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Sautéed diced meat with green peppers and herbs in a pan. — Garlic Butter Steak Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites take rich, juicy steak and coat it in a buttery, garlicky sauce that makes every bite irresistible. They cook up in minutes, making them a great choice for easy weeknight meals that feel a little fancy. Serve them over rice, with roasted veggies, or straight from the pan—no judgment here.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Salmon Pasta Alfredo

A plate of creamy salmon pasta garnished with lemon slices and parsley. — Salmon Pasta Alfredo. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Salmon Pasta Alfredo turns simple ingredients into a creamy, indulgent meal that’s ready in no time. It’s the kind of dinner that looks impressive but is secretly perfect for easy weeknight meals. A little prep, a little stirring, and dinner is as good as anything from a restaurant.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Alfredo

Slow Cooker Beef Tips

Close-up of a spoonful of beef stew with chunks of meat, onions, and parsley in a rich brown broth. — Slow Cooker Beef Tips. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Slow Cooker Beef Tips are what easy weeknight meals should be—rich, comforting, and completely hands-off. Toss everything in the slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you handle everything else. By dinner, you’ve got fork-tender beef in a savory sauce, ready to spoon over mashed potatoes or rice.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef Tips

Shrimp Scampi Fettuccine

A pan of shrimp pasta with fettuccine, garnished with parsley and cheese. A lemon wedge is placed on top. Plates, forks, and a sprig of parsley are nearby. — Shrimp Scampi Fettuccine. Photo credit: Food Exit Recipes.

Shrimp Scampi Fettuccine brings buttery garlic shrimp and perfectly cooked pasta together in one quick skillet meal. It’s a no-stress way to bring restaurant-quality flavors to your table without spending all night cooking. That’s why it’s a go-to for easy weeknight meals.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi Fettuccine

Rib-Eye Steak

A cooked steak with a butter slice on top, served with asparagus spears, on a white plate. — Rib-Eye Steak. Photo credit: My Best Air Fryer Recipes.

Rib-Eye Steak in the air fryer comes out juicy, perfectly seared, and ready in minutes. When dinner needs to be both impressive and effortless, this is the way to go. Pair it with simple sides, and easy weeknight meals don’t get much better.
Get the Recipe: Rib-Eye Steak

Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Hash

A plate of cooked ground meat mixed with diced vegetables topped with sliced jalapeños and cilantro. Avocado slices on the side. A fork and napkin are on the right, tortillas on the left. — Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Hash. Photo credit: Poppy Trail Table.

Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Hash is a one-pan wonder that’s as good for dinner as it is for breakfast. The combination of hearty beef, sweet potatoes, and a little spice makes it the kind of meal that works any night of the week. It’s a solid go-to when easy weeknight meals need to be fast, filling, and full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef & Sweet Potato Hash

Baked Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

Flatbread topped with three meatballs, drizzled with orange and white sauces, and garnished with sliced green onions on a white plate. — Baked Buffalo Chicken Meatballs. Photo credit: Flavorful Eats.

Baked Buffalo Chicken Meatballs bring the heat without the hassle, making them a no-brainer for easy weeknight meals. They bake up golden and juicy, loaded with tangy Buffalo sauce and melty blue cheese. Serve them solo, stuff them in a sandwich, or pile them on a plate—either way, dinner just got way better.
Get the Recipe: Baked Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

Gigi Hadid Pasta

A bowl of penne pasta in a creamy tomato sauce, garnished with grated cheese and fresh basil leaves, sits on a rustic wooden table with a glass and bottle of water nearby. — Gigi Hadid Pasta. Photo credit: The Cinnamon Jar.

Gigi Hadid Pasta isn't just internet famous—it’s a top-tier choice for easy weeknight meals. The creamy, spicy vodka sauce coats every noodle like it’s giving them a VIP treatment. No need for a reservation; this rich and bold dish is ready to impress in no time.
Get the Recipe: Gigi Hadid Pasta

Lemon and Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Lemon and Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the kind of dinner that tastes fancy but barely takes any effort—perfect for easy weeknight meals. The garlicky, buttery sauce clings to every bite, while the shrimp stay juicy and bright from a hit of lemon. Toss it together in minutes and enjoy a restaurant-worthy meal without the wait.
Get the Recipe: Lemon and Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Baked Chili Lime Tilapia

Grilled fish fillets on a white plate, garnished with cilantro and served with lime wedges, fork on the side. — Baked Chili Lime Tilapia. Photo credit: Parched Around the World.

Baked Chili Lime Tilapia is the answer when you want easy weeknight meals that don’t skimp on bold flavor. The chili-lime combo gives each bite a spicy-citrusy kick, while the oven does all the work. Fast, simple, and packed with punchy goodness—what more do you need?
Get the Recipe: Baked Chili Lime Tilapia

Bubble Up Pizza Casserole

A rectangular pepperoni pizza in a baking dish on a wooden table with a knife, surrounded by milk glasses, red pepper flakes, fresh basil, and utensils. — Bubble Up Pizza Casserole. Photo credit: The Cookin Chicks.

Bubble Up Pizza Casserole is a no-fuss, all-fun way to bring pizza night to the next level. Biscuit dough, melty cheese, and all your favorite toppings bake together for the ultimate comfort food. It’s one of those easy weeknight meals that guarantees zero complaints at the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Bubble Up Pizza Casserole

Spicy Thai Beef Noodle Soup

A bowl of noodle soup with beef and herbs is surrounded by small bowls of chopped cilantro, green onions, and lime wedges on a wooden surface. — Spicy Thai Beef Noodle Soup. Photo credit: Flavorful Eats.

Spicy Thai Beef Noodle Soup turns up the heat and turns down the stress—just what you need for easy weeknight meals. Tender beef, slurp-worthy noodles, and a bold, spicy broth come together in just 30 minutes. One pot, big flavor, zero leftovers—good luck saving some for later.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Thai Beef Noodle Soup

Parmesan Crusted Chicken

A plate with sliced breaded chicken, green beans, and mashed potatoes, with a small bowl of pepper in the corner. — Parmesan Crusted Chicken. Photo credit: Cheerful Cook.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken delivers crispy, golden perfection without the deep fryer, making it a go-to for easy weeknight meals. The cheesy, crunchy crust locks in the juicy goodness, so every bite hits just right. Pair it with pasta, salad, or straight from the pan—no judgment here.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Vegetable Orzo Soup

A bowl of vegetable soup with pasta on a scalloped plate, next to a dish of grated cheese and fresh parsley. Striped napkin and additional pot of soup in the background. — Vegetable Orzo Soup. Photo credit: 30 Minute Kitchen.

Vegetable Orzo Soup is the one-pot wonder that makes easy weeknight meals feel effortless. Loaded with hearty veggies and tiny orzo pasta, it’s comfort food that won’t weigh you down. It’s warm, filling, and ready before you can say, “Should we just order takeout?”
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Orzo Soup

Sheet Pan Sweet Potatoes & Black Bean Bowls

Bowls of brown rice topped with roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, and cilantro, accompanied by small bowls of chopped herbs and sour cream on a light background. — Sheet Pan Sweet Potatoes & Black Bean Bowls. Photo credit: Toshi's Table.

Sheet Pan Sweet Potatoes & Black Bean Bowls make easy weeknight meals feel effortless. Everything roasts on one pan, so you get crispy sweet potatoes, seasoned black beans, and barely any cleanup. Pile it into a bowl, throw on some toppings, and dinner is done.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Sweet Potatoes & Black Bean Bowls

Rump Roast

Plate of roast beef with potatoes, carrots, and onions, garnished with rosemary, on a marble surface with a green cloth and herbs. — Rump Roast. Photo credit: One Wholesome Life.

Rump Roast is one of those easy weeknight meals that practically cooks itself. Slow-cooked beef, tender veggies, and a rich broth come together while you take care of everything else. Just plate it up, grab a fork, and enjoy a dinner that feels like zero effort.
Get the Recipe: Rump Roast

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Pasta

A bowl of creamy pasta topped with shaved parmesan and fresh basil leaves. A fork and spoon are placed beside the bowl on a white surface. — Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Pasta. Photo credit: The Savory Cipolla.

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Pasta proves that easy weeknight meals don’t have to be boring. The rich sun-dried tomato pesto brings big flavor with minimal effort, making it a no-brainer for busy nights. When easy weeknight meals call for something fast, creamy, and comforting, this pasta is always a solid choice.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Pasta

Three Bean Chili

A bowl of chili topped with sour cream and cilantro. A small bowl of shredded cheese is in the background on a wooden surface with a brown cloth. — Three Bean Chili. Photo credit: Parched Around the World.

Three Bean Chili is a one-pot wonder that makes easy weeknight meals feel effortless. Loaded with beans, bold spices, and a thick, hearty broth, it’s the kind of meal that keeps you full without keeping you in the kitchen. When it comes to easy weeknight meals, nothing beats a big bowl of chili with all your favorite toppings.
Get the Recipe: Three Bean Chili

Chicken and Chickpea Curry

A plate of white rice with chickpea and vegetable curry, garnished with chopped herbs and lime wedges. — Chicken and Chickpea Curry. Photo credit: Well Fed Baker.

Chicken and Chickpea Curry brings warmth and comfort to easy weeknight meals without the hassle. The creamy coconut sauce balances just the right amount of spice, making it a go-to for cozy dinners. If easy weeknight meals need to be fast, flavorful, and filling, this one checks all the boxes.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Chickpea Curry

Sheet Pan Hawaiian Chicken

Baked dish with glazed chicken thighs, pineapple chunks, broccoli, red bell peppers, and red onions on a tray, garnished with chopped cilantro. — Sheet Pan Hawaiian Chicken. Photo credit: Fit as a Mama Bear.

Sheet Pan Hawaiian Chicken takes easy weeknight meals to another level with juicy chicken, crisp veggies, and a sweet, sticky sauce. Everything roasts on one pan, so there’s less cleanup and more time to relax. When easy weeknight meals need to be quick and crowd-pleasing, this dish delivers.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Hawaiian Chicken

Sloppy Joe Casserole with Easy Cheddar Biscuit Top

A baking dish filled with cheesy biscuits sits on a table next to a wooden bowl of salad and a wooden spoon. — Sloppy Joe Casserole with Easy Cheddar Biscuit Top. Photo credit: Poppy Trail Table.

Sloppy Joe Casserole with Easy Cheddar Biscuit Top turns a classic sandwich into the ultimate comfort food for easy weeknight meals. The saucy, beefy filling gets a buttery, cheesy biscuit topping that bakes up golden and fluffy. If easy weeknight meals mean simple, hearty, and family-approved, this casserole is the way to go.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole with Easy Cheddar Biscuit Top

Frito Taco Bake

A slice of casserole topped with sour cream, salsa, sliced jalapeños, and guacamole on a plate with a fork. A glass of milk, dish towel, and casserole dish are nearby on a wooden table. — Frito Taco Bake. Photo credit: The Cookin Chicks.

Frito Taco Bake is the crispy, cheesy answer to easy weeknight meals when tacos feel like too much work. Layers of seasoned beef, melted cheese, and crunchy Fritos make every bite the perfect balance of texture and flavor. If easy weeknight meals need to be fun, fast, and downright delicious, this one’s a keeper.
Get the Recipe: Frito Taco Bake

Unstuffed Chicken Cordon Bleu

Plate of chicken cordon bleu with cheese sauce, accompanied by steamed broccolini. A glass of lemon water and a bowl of shaved parmesan are nearby. — Unstuffed Chicken Cordon Bleu. Photo credit: 30 Minute Kitchen.

Unstuffed Chicken Cordon Bleu keeps all the crispy, melty goodness of the classic without the extra steps—perfect for easy weeknight meals. Juicy breaded chicken, salty ham, and gooey Provolone come together in a simple but satisfying dish. When easy weeknight meals need a little something special without the fuss, this one delivers.
Get the Recipe: Unstuffed Chicken Cordon Bleu