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    Home / Roundups

    21 Main Dishes Ready Before You Can Even Set the Table

    By Lisa MarcAurele · Nov 2, 2024 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    When you need dinner fast, there's nothing better than having a go-to list of easy main dishes that are ready in no time. These meals take the stress out of weeknight cooking and let you focus on enjoying time with family instead of spending hours in the kitchen. I’m all about simplicity, and these dishes are the perfect solution for a quick, delicious meal without the hassle.

    Grilled chicken thigh on a white plate with green beans and a side of barbecue sauce, garnished with chopped herbs on a wooden table.
    Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

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    Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry

    Shrimp and broccoli stir-fry in a bowl.
    Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Stir-fried shrimp and broccoli is a quick and wholesome dish that’s perfect for busy nights. It cooks up in minutes and offers a healthy option when you're in a hurry. The shrimp and veggies make it a satisfying meal on their own or with a side of rice. Quick to the table and packed with flavor, this is a great solution for fast weeknight dinners. Plus, minimal prep makes it even easier.
    Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry

    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.

    A hearty dish like steak and mushrooms with balsamic sauce is perfect when you want something quick but special. The steak cooks up fast, and the mushrooms add a rich, savory flavor. This meal is perfect for any night when you want something substantial without spending too much time cooking. A flavorful balsamic sauce ties everything together, making it both simple and delicious. Ready in no time.
    Get the Recipe: Steak and Mushrooms with Balsamic Sauce

    Creamy Chicken Curry

    Chicken curry with rice.
    Creamy Chicken Curry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Creamy chicken curry brings bold flavors to your dinner table, and it’s ready faster than you’d expect. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time, you’ll have a flavorful curry on the table in a snap. It’s a great option for nights when you want something warm and comforting but can’t spend hours in the kitchen. Serve with rice or naan to complete the meal.
    Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Curry

    Cream Cheese Chicken

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

    Cream cheese chicken combines creamy and savory elements for a quick and easy meal. With minimal prep, you’ll have this dish ready to go in less time than you think. The cream cheese adds a rich touch, making it a simple yet comforting option for any night of the week. It’s perfect for those evenings when you need something fast but flavorful. Pairs well with a variety of sides.
    Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Chicken

    Mexican Steak Pizza

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

    Mexican steak pizza is a fusion dish that’s quick to prepare and full of bold flavors. The steak cooks quickly, making it a great option for a fast main course. With Mexican-inspired toppings and a crispy crust, it’s a fun way to switch up pizza night without spending too much time in the kitchen. Ready in minutes, it’s ideal for a busy night when you want something a little different.
    Get the Recipe: Mexican Steak Pizza

    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 tuna melt offers a quick, cheesy, and crispy meal in a matter of minutes. The air fryer speeds up the process, ensuring you have a perfectly toasted sandwich without much effort. It’s a great option for lunch or dinner when you’re pressed for time. Serve with chips or a salad for a complete meal. Simple, quick, and satisfying, it’s a great go-to for busy days.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tuna Melt

    Garlic Butter Steak Bites

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

    Garlic butter steak bites cook up quickly and offer a flavorful option for dinner when you're short on time. The steak is tender and infused with garlic butter, making it a simple yet hearty dish. Perfect for nights when you need a meal on the table fast, these bites can be paired with a variety of sides. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a great option for a quick yet satisfying meal.
    Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Steak Bites

    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.

    Grilled shrimp skewers are fast to prepare and packed with flavor, making them an ideal main dish for busy nights. The shrimp cook in minutes, and grilling adds a smoky touch. Perfect for summer meals or when you’re looking for something light but filling. Serve with a side salad or rice for a complete meal. Quick, simple, and ready to enjoy in no time.
    Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Skewers

    Shrimp Scampi

    A plate with shrimp and bread on it.
    Shrimp Scampi. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Shrimp scampi is a classic dish that’s both elegant and quick to make. The shrimp cook in just a few minutes, making this perfect for busy nights when you need something on the table fast. With garlic and butter as the base, it’s a simple yet satisfying dish that pairs well with pasta or bread. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a great option for weeknight meals. Easy and full of flavor.
    Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

    Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

    A bowl of shrimp pasta with lemon and parsley.
    Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Garlic butter shrimp pasta is a quick and easy meal, perfect for busy evenings. The shrimp and pasta cook in no time, making this a great choice for when you need dinner fast. With the simplicity of garlic butter, it’s flavorful without being fussy. You can have it on the table in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknights. Serve with a side salad or garlic bread.
    Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

    Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

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

    Buffalo chicken pasta bake is a comforting dish that comes together quickly and easily. The spicy buffalo sauce adds bold flavor, while the pasta and chicken create a hearty meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this bake can be prepared in advance or whipped up last minute. Ready in under 40 minutes, it’s a great option for a fast and flavorful meal. Ideal for any night when you’re craving something warm.
    Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

    Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet

    A skillet containing a stir-fried mix of ground meat, sliced bell peppers, leafy greens, and white sesame seeds, with a wooden spoon resting on the side. Plates with flatbreads are in the background.
    Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Ground beef and cabbage skillet is a fast and easy one-pan meal that’s perfect for weeknights. The ground beef cooks quickly, and the cabbage adds a hearty texture. With minimal prep and cook time, it’s a great option for when you need a meal on the table fast. This dish is simple, filling, and perfect for busy evenings. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it a great go-to recipe.
    Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet

    Panko Crusted Cod

    Panko-crusted cod fish on a plate with green beans.
    Panko Crusted Cod. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Panko crusted cod is a light and crispy option for a quick dinner. The cod cooks up fast, and the panko gives it a crunchy texture without much effort. Perfect for nights when you want something easy but satisfying. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for weeknight meals. Serve with your favorite sides for a complete dish.
    Get the Recipe: Panko Crusted Cod

    Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

    Three pieces of bacon-wrapped salmon bites garnished with parsley on a white plate.
    Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Bacon-wrapped salmon bites offer a combination of flavors that are ready in a snap. The salmon cooks quickly, and the bacon adds a savory twist. Perfect for busy nights, these bites are great on their own or paired with a side. Ready in under 30 minutes, they’re a great option for when you need something fast and flavorful. A unique twist on salmon that everyone will love.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

    Chicken Divan

    A casserole dish with cheese and broccoli on a napkin.
    Chicken Divan. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Chicken Divan is a classic casserole that’s quick and simple to make. With chicken, broccoli, and a creamy sauce, it’s a comforting meal that comes together in no time. Perfect for nights when you need a meal on the table fast, this dish can be prepared ahead or made fresh. It’s a great option for busy weeknights when you want something warm and filling. Serve with rice or on its own.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Divan

    Beef Quesadillas

    A stack of quesadillas filled with cheese and steak served with a side of red salsa on a white plate.
    Beef Quesadillas. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Beef quesadillas are a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy nights. The beef cooks in minutes, and with a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a flavorful dish ready to go. Perfect for a weeknight dinner when you need something fast. These quesadillas can be customized with your favorite toppings. A quick and convenient option when you’re short on time.
    Get the Recipe: Beef Quesadillas

    Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs

    A grilled chicken thight with barbecue sauce and a side of green beans on a white plate, garnished with chopped parsley.
    Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Grilled BBQ boneless chicken thighs are a fast and flavorful meal that’s perfect for outdoor or indoor grilling. The thighs cook up quickly, making them a great option when you’re in a rush. Serve them with a side of veggies or a salad for a complete meal. Ready in under 30 minutes, they’re ideal for weeknight dinners. A simple, no-fuss dish that everyone will enjoy.
    Get the Recipe: Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs

    Breaded Panko Pork Chops

    Panko pork chop on plate with greens.
    Breaded Panko Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Breaded panko pork chops are a quick and crispy meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. The pork chops cook up fast, and the panko adds a satisfying crunch. This dish is ready in less than 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy nights. Serve with mashed potatoes or veggies for a complete meal. Easy to make, yet full of flavor.
    Get the Recipe: Breaded Panko Pork Chops

    Panko Chicken Breast

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

    Panko chicken breast is a simple yet crispy option for a quick dinner. The chicken cooks quickly, and the panko gives it a crunchy texture that pairs well with any side. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknights when you need something fast. Serve with a salad or rice for a complete meal. A straightforward and flavorful option.
    Get the Recipe: Panko Chicken Breast

    Honey Butter Fried Chicken

    Serving of honey butter chicken garnished with parsley on plate.
    Honey Butter Fried Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Honey butter fried chicken is a quick and flavorful option for any night of the week. The chicken cooks up fast and is coated in a sweet and savory honey butter glaze. This dish is perfect when you want something hearty but don’t have much time. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy evenings. Serve with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
    Get the Recipe: Honey Butter Fried Chicken

    Shrimp and Tomato Pasta

    A bowl of pasta with shrimp and tomatoes.
    Shrimp and Tomato Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Shrimp and tomato pasta is a light and quick meal that’s perfect for busy evenings. The shrimp cook in minutes, and the tomato sauce adds a fresh touch. This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for a fast weeknight dinner. Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Simple and ready in no time.
    Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Tomato Pasta

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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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    Hi, I'm Lisa! I'm a cookbook author who has been creating recipes for over a decade. I'd like to show you how easy it is to downsize your cooking for one or two people.

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