• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Little Bit Recipes
  • Home
  • Recipes
  • About
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Resources
  • Recipes
  • Subscribe
  • About
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Resources
    • Recipes
    • Subscribe
    • About
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
  • ×
    Home / Roundups

    26 Simple Dinner Recipes That Even Beginners Can’t Ruin

    By Lisa MarcAurele · Jan 30, 2025 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    If you're new to cooking or just need something quick and easy, these simple dinner recipes are perfect for you. Each one is straightforward, requiring minimal ingredients and basic steps, so you can feel confident in the kitchen without the stress. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding the whole family, these recipes will have you covered with delicious meals that are hard to mess up.

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

    Want to save this post?

    Enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox. Plus, I'll send you the latest recipes and tips every week!

    Loading

    Taco Spaghetti Skillet

    A plate of spaghetti with ground meat, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped green onions. A black skillet containing more of the dish is partially visible in the background.
    Taco Spaghetti Skillet. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

    This one-pan meal is quick, flavorful, and perfect for a stress-free dinner. The combination of taco spices and pasta makes it a hearty option that’s easy to pull together on busy nights. With simple ingredients, it’s beginner-friendly and satisfying. Cleanup is minimal, which is always a win. This dish proves you don’t need complex techniques to make something everyone will enjoy.
    Get the Recipe: Taco Spaghetti Skillet

    Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry

    Roasted broccoli and tofu cubes garnished with sesame seeds and green onions, served with a wooden spoon.
    Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Packed with fresh vegetables and protein, this stir fry is a fast and healthy option for dinner. It’s simple enough for anyone to prepare, even if you’re just starting in the kitchen. The mix of broccoli and tofu pairs well with a light sauce for a balanced meal. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknights. Plus, it uses basic ingredients you likely already have.
    Get the Recipe: Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry

    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 sweet and savory twist on a classic spaghetti dish is as comforting as it is easy to make. Its straightforward ingredients and simple preparation make it an excellent choice for cooks of all levels. It’s great for when you want something different but not overly complicated. A touch of sweetness makes it especially family-friendly. You’ll love how effortless it is to create this flavor-packed meal.
    Get the Recipe: Filipino Spaghetti

    Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos

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

    These slow cooker tacos are perfect for a no-fuss dinner that practically makes itself. The chicken comes out tender and flavorful with just a few ingredients and minimal prep. It’s a great way to have a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect for beginners or anyone who loves set-it-and-forget-it recipes. Serve with your favorite toppings for a complete meal.
    Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos

    Breaded Panko Pork Chops

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

    These crispy pork chops are a simple yet satisfying option for dinner. The panko coating adds a crunchy texture that’s easy to achieve without complicated steps. With just a few ingredients, they’re great for anyone new to cooking. They bake quickly, making them a convenient choice for weeknights. Pair with a side salad or vegetables for a complete meal.
    Get the Recipe: Breaded Panko Pork Chops

    Chicken Divan

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

    This creamy casserole combines chicken, broccoli, and a rich sauce for a cozy dinner option. It’s straightforward to make with basic ingredients and requires little effort, making it perfect for those just starting in the kitchen. The dish bakes to bubbly perfection and works well for both small families and leftovers. It’s a comforting meal that’s ready in about an hour. Ideal for those nights when you want something hearty without extra work.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Divan

    Braised Short Ribs

    A close-up of braised short ribs in a tomato-based sauce, garnished with herbs.
    Braised Short Ribs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These tender, flavorful short ribs are a great choice for anyone looking to impress without stress. They require just a handful of ingredients and a slow braise, making them beginner-friendly despite their rich taste. Perfect for cozy evenings, they pair well with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. While they take time to cook, the hands-on work is minimal. The result is a hearty and rewarding meal with little effort.
    Get the Recipe: Braised Short Ribs

    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.

    This recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken with minimal prep and cooking time. The air fryer makes it easy to achieve a perfectly cooked dish with a glaze that’s packed with flavor. With only a few ingredients, it’s a quick option for beginners or anyone looking for a hassle-free dinner. Serve it with rice or steamed veggies for a complete meal. The cleanup is just as easy as the cooking.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken

    Panko Crusted Cod

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

    This light and crispy fish dish is as simple as it gets, making it perfect for those new to cooking. The panko coating adds a nice crunch, while the cod remains tender and flaky. It’s a quick and healthy dinner option that doesn’t require much effort. Pair it with a squeeze of lemon and a side of veggies for a balanced meal. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy evenings.
    Get the Recipe: Panko Crusted Cod

    Ground Pork Stir Fry

    A plate with ground pork and vegetables on top of cauliflower rice.
    Ground Pork Stir Fry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This quick and flavorful stir fry is perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s easy to make. With ground pork and a mix of vegetables, it comes together in no time and uses basic pantry staples. It’s beginner-friendly and adaptable to whatever veggies you have on hand. Serve it over rice or noodles for a filling and satisfying meal. It’s proof that simple ingredients can lead to a great dinner.
    Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Stir Fry

    Ground Pork Burgers

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

    These flavorful pork burgers are a simple and quick dinner option that even beginners can handle with ease. Made with just a few ingredients, they’re perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings. The patties cook up juicy and pair well with any toppings. Serve them on buns with a side of fries or salad for a complete meal. You’ll love how effortless and satisfying these burgers are.
    Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Burgers

    Salmon Pasta Alfredo

    Salmon pasta Alfredo served on a white plate with lemon.
    Salmon Pasta Alfredo. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This creamy pasta dish combines tender salmon and a rich Alfredo sauce for a comforting meal. It’s easy to make with just a handful of ingredients, making it great for busy weeknights. The recipe requires no advanced cooking skills, so it’s beginner-friendly. Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s a quick way to enjoy a hearty and flavorful dinner. Serve with a side of bread or a simple salad for a full meal.
    Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Alfredo

    Shrimp Scampi

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

    Shrimp Scampi is a quick and elegant dish that’s simple enough for anyone to prepare. With just a few ingredients, it’s perfect for those who want a light but flavorful dinner. The shrimp cook quickly, making this an excellent choice for busy nights. Serve it over pasta or with crusty bread to complete the meal. It’s proof that great flavor doesn’t require complicated recipes.
    Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

    Personal Pizza

    Close-up of a pepperoni pizza slice being lifted, showing melted cheese and tomato sauce.
    Personal Pizza. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This customizable personal pizza is easy to make and perfect for anyone new to cooking. With only a few simple ingredients, it’s a quick option for a fun and stress-free dinner. Each person can top their pizza just how they like it, making it great for families or picky eaters. It bakes in no time, so it’s perfect for busy evenings. This is a recipe you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation.
    Get the Recipe: Personal Pizza

    Baked Lemon Butter Fish

    Baked lemon butter fish fillet seasoned with herbs and spices, garnished with lemon slices and chopped parsley,.
    Baked Lemon Butter Fish. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This light and flavorful fish dish is simple enough for beginners and quick enough for a busy evening. The lemon and butter create a bright, rich sauce that pairs beautifully with the tender fish. It uses just a few ingredients and requires minimal effort to prepare. Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s a perfect choice for a healthy and easy dinner. Pair it with rice or vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
    Get the Recipe: Baked Lemon Butter Fish

    Panko Chicken Breast

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

    This crispy chicken breast recipe is a breeze to make with just a few ingredients. The panko breading adds a nice crunch, while the chicken stays juicy and tender. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides like vegetables or potatoes. Great for beginners, it’s quick to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners. You’ll appreciate how simple yet satisfying this recipe is.
    Get the Recipe: Panko Chicken Breast

    Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites (Lechon Kawali)

    A basket of crispy roasted pork belly chunks garnished with parsley, served in a white paper-lined wicker basket.
    Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites (Lechon Kawali). Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These crispy pork belly bites are a delicious and easy-to-make dish with just a handful of ingredients. The air fryer ensures they turn out golden and crunchy with minimal effort. Perfect as a main dish or appetizer, they’re a versatile choice for any occasion. With simple steps, even beginners can master this recipe. Serve them with a dipping sauce or rice for a complete meal.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites (Lechon Kawali)

    Air Fryer Marinated Chicken Breasts

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

    Juicy and flavorful, these marinated chicken breasts are an easy dinner option that’s hard to mess up. The air fryer cooks them quickly, making this recipe perfect for busy nights. It uses basic ingredients and requires minimal prep, so it’s great for beginners. Serve with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying meal. Cleanup is simple, making this recipe a hassle-free choice.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Marinated Chicken Breasts

    Slow Cooker Beef Tips

    A spoon holding chunks of beef in a rich, brown stew garnished with small pieces of green herbs.
    Slow Cooker Beef Tips. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This hearty dish is as easy as it gets, with tender beef tips that cook slowly to perfection. The slow cooker does all the work, so you don’t have to, making it ideal for beginners or busy days. With just a few ingredients, it’s a great option for a comforting dinner. Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a filling meal. It’s a no-fuss recipe that delivers big on flavor.
    Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef Tips

    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.

    Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, these chicken legs are a simple and satisfying dinner option. The air fryer makes them easy to prepare with minimal cleanup. Using only a few ingredients, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a no-hassle meal. They cook quickly, so they’re great for busy nights or last-minute plans. Pair them with a salad or veggies for a balanced plate.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Legs

    Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

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

    This garlic butter shrimp pasta is a flavorful and easy dinner option that requires just a few ingredients. The shrimp cook quickly and pair perfectly with a creamy butter sauce. It’s a great choice for a simple yet satisfying meal. Ready in about 20 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy evenings. Serve with a side of garlic bread or salad for a complete meal.
    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.

    This pasta bake combines the bold flavor of buffalo chicken with creamy pasta for a comforting meal. With just a few ingredients, it’s an easy recipe that anyone can make. The dish comes together quickly and is perfect for feeding a crowd or satisfying a family. It bakes in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. You’ll love the balance of heat and creaminess in every bite.
    Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

    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 crockpot chicken dish is packed with sweet and savory flavors and is so easy to make. With just a few ingredients, it’s perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a hands-off dinner. The slow cooker does all the work, and the result is tender, flavorful chicken. Ready to serve after a few hours, it’s great for a busy day. Pair it with rice or vegetables for a complete meal.
    Get the Recipe: Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

    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.

    These bacon-wrapped salmon bites are an easy, flavorful option for dinner or appetizers. With only a few ingredients, they’re quick to prepare and perfect for beginners. The bacon adds a delicious crunch to the tender salmon, creating a perfect balance of textures. The recipe is simple to follow, and cleanup is minimal. Pair with roasted vegetables or a side salad for a well-rounded meal.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

    Fried Cauliflower Rice with Shrimp

    A skillet brimming with keto fried cauliflower rice, shrimp, peas, carrots, and bell peppers is accompanied by scrambled eggs. A wooden spoon rests on the side, while a striped cloth adds charm next to the skillet.
    Fried Cauliflower Rice with Shrimp. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

    This fried cauliflower rice with shrimp is a light, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s quick to make and requires just a few ingredients, making it an excellent choice for beginners. The shrimp add protein while the cauliflower rice keeps the dish light but filling. Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s an easy meal that’s sure to please. Serve it on its own or with a side of vegetables for a balanced dinner.
    Get the Recipe: Fried Cauliflower Rice with Shrimp

    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 baked stuffed pork chops are simple to prepare and packed with flavor. With just a few ingredients, they make an easy yet impressive meal. The pork is tender and the stuffing adds great flavor and texture. It’s a great option for beginners who want to try something new but easy. Ready in about an hour, serve with mashed potatoes or a side of vegetables for a complete dinner.
    Get the Recipe: Baked Stuffed Pork Chops

    More Roundups

    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.

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    No Comments

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Primary Sidebar

    A woman in a green shirt stands in a kitchen holding a bowl of strawberries.

    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.

    Read more →

    Popular

    • A bowl of brown rice with Hawaiian chicken on it.
      Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
    • edible cookie dough single serving for one.
      Edible Single Serving Cookie Dough
    • Sliced Italian artisan bread with buttered slice in front.
      No Knead Italian Artisan Bread
    • A sliced meatloaf on a white plate.
      Cracker Barrel Meatloaf (CopyCat)

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    Cooking

    • Scaling Recipes
    • Mini Pie Pans
    • Stories

    Recipes

    • Breakfast
    • Dinner
    • Desserts

    About

    • About
    • Contact
    • Newsletter

    LittleBitRecipes.com makes money through affiliate partner links: If you click on a link, we may earn a commission. Our writers create all reviews, recipes, and other content to inform readers, with no influence from our advertisers. LittleBitRecipes.com may earn from qualifying purchased made on Amazon.com. Learn more about our privacy policies, terms of use, and disclosures.

    Copyright © 2025. Little Bit Recipes. All Rights Reserved.