80 Cheap & Easy Dinner Recipes So You'll Never Cook A Boring Meal Again

stir fried pieces of chicken and broccoli
80 Cheap & Easy Dinner RecipesPHOTO: BRYAN GARDNER; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

There's a time and a place for pulling out all the stops for a wildly impressive dinner, but most weeknights, we're looking for something cheap and easy. These recipes hit both criteria, with ease. You don’t have to drop major dough to make something delicious that can be on your table in an hour or less—save money by choosing cheaper proteins (we’re talking chicken, ground beef or turkey, or vegetarian options) and time by making these dishes all in one pan or via some of our top kitchen shortcuts. Whatever your style, these cheap and easy meals will please your entire family without breaking the bank.

One of the easiest ways to cut down on dinner costs is to go for cheaper cuts of meat, or utilizing more expensive ones in creative ways. Try adding ground beef, turkey, or chicken to help bulk out old standbys. Try roasting a whole chicken (or buying a rotisserie chicken), then utilizing it for everything from pizza to tacos all week long. Try adding more expensive seafood or steak to pasta or rice to help make smaller, more affordable portions go further, like in our salmon & potato skillet or our creamy steak fettuccine. It’s all about the way you use the protein that matters, not avoiding them altogether.

If you’ve been on the fence about certain kitchen appliances, like slow cookers, air fryers, and Instant Pots, consider this your sign to take the plunge and get one. They help dinners come together SO fast. Check out our more in-depth lists for your air fryer (over 100 recipes!), Instant Pot, and Crockpot.

Even if you’re not ready for another appliance, we bet you have some things in your kitchen already that’ll help you get dinner on the table fast, like sheet pans, a Dutch oven, and casserole dishes. We’ve included a number of our favorite recipes here, like our sheet-pan garlicky shrimp & veggies, our hamburger casserole (no more flipping individual burgers!), or our Mexican beef 'n rice skillet, but once you’ve got the basics down, feel free to get creative.

One of the best ways to save some money is to go meatless (and not just on Mondays). And we don’t mean by replacing proteins with all those high-priced meat substitutes (though we’re all about those sometimes)—instead we’re talking about making vegetarian meals out of cheap beans, tofu, and plants. Try our Indian butter chickpeas, our creamy mushroom pasta, our sesame tofu & broccoli stir-fry, or our vegan crunchwraps to see how versatile and filling these meals can be.

Want more cheap and easy meals? Check out our favorite 5-ingredient meals, our top 30-minute meals, and food editor June’s entire Budget Eats series. You won’t believe what she comes up with for under $25!

Chicken Stir-Fry

A stir fry is our go-to weeknight dinner when we just don’t have the energy to spend a long time in the kitchen or hit the grocery store—this recipe is no exception. Make it as is for our best-ever version, then use it as a jumping-off point to create your perfect chicken stir-fry.

Get the Chicken Stir-Fry recipe.

chicken stir fry with broccoli, cashews, and red pepper
PHOTO: RYAN LIEBE; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Indian Butter Chickpeas

Looking for your new favorite way to dress up canned chickpeas? You’re in the right place. Simmered in an aromatic tomato gravy, this vegetarian spin on classic butter chicken will forever change the way you look at a can of beans.

Get the Indian Butter Chickpeas recipe.

indian butter chickpeas and rice in a bowl with pita
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Sheet-Pan Tikka Masala

Our sheet-pan tikka masala is a fun way to enjoy a classic Indian dish, chicken tikka masala, at home in a slightly new (and easier!) way. It’s a foolproof way to get a whole dinner on the table using just a sheet pan.

Get the Sheet-Pan Tikka Masala recipe.

chicken thighs covered in a tikka masala sauce with pickled red onions and jalapenos on a sheet pan
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Classic Stuffed Peppers

Bell peppers are strong enough to hold their shape in the oven, and the flavor is subtle enough to go well with just about anything. This is our favorite recipe, but the customization options are endless—check out all our stuffed pepper recipes here too.

Get the Classic Stuffed Peppers recipe.

colorful stuffed peppers with ground beef and tomato rice
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Sesame Tofu & Broccoli

In this vegetarian version of a Chinese-American favorite, oven-baked tofu gets tossed in a savory, sweet, and slightly spicy sauce along with crisp-tender broccoli, then topped with toasty sesame seeds and scallions. With a side of white rice, you’ll be on your way to a saucy, crowd-pleasing weeknight dinner.

Get the Sesame Tofu & Broccoli recipe.

crispy baked tofu tossed with a sweet and savory chili spiked sesame sauce and crisp tender broccoli
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE

Egg Roll Bowls

If you're a fan of crispy, savory egg rolls, then you might consider this unwrapped version your dream dinner. Without the need to wrap or fry, this veggie-packed meal comes together in well under an hour. Garnish with crispy raw scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and plenty of sriracha or chili oil.

Get the Egg Roll Bowls recipe.

ground pork, cabbage and carrot in a bowl
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE

Creamy Corn Pasta

Don’t be fooled by the name—this pasta has no cream. Instead, you’ll puree fresh corn, sautéed garlic, and scallions into a luscious sauce that’s topped with Parmesan, basil, and even more corn. With just these few ingredients, you can have a crowd-pleasing pasta dish on the table in only about 30 minutes.

Get the Creamy Corn Pasta recipe.

creamy corn pasta
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: MARY RUPP

Mexican Chicken Casserole

There’s your average casserole… and then there’s this cheesy, loaded Mexican chicken casserole. While this is certainly not an authentic Mexican dish, it combines lots of flavors and ingredients that will remind you of tacos, enchiladas, and your favorite Mexican/Tex-Mex meals, all in one pan.

Get the Mexican Chicken Casserole recipe.

mexican chicken casserole topped with diced tomatoes, jalapenos and avocado
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Mexican Beef 'N Rice Skillet

Is there anything better than a one-skillet meal? We don’t think so, particularly if it’s as family-friendly and quick as this one, featuring spiced ground beef, flavorful rice, hearty beans, and lots of cheese. It all comes together in just 40 minutes with minimal prep too!

Get the Mexican Beef 'N Rice Skillet recipe.

mexican beef 'n rice skillet topped with melty cheese and cilantro
PHOTO: LUCY SCHAEFFER, FOOD STYLING: TAYLOR ANN SPENCER

Crispy Sheet-Pan Black Bean Tacos

Tacos always bring party vibes, but when they’re baked until crisp and rimmed with crunchy cheesy frico, it’s an all-out fiesta. Featuring refried black beans inside a crunchy corn tortilla, this cross between a taco and a sheet-pan quesadilla makes every weeknight feel like a celebration.

Get the Crispy Sheet-Pan Black Bean Tacos recipe.

crispy sheet pan black bean tacos on a sheet pan with a bowl of sour cream
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Hamburger Casserole

A cheeseburger is one of the most perfect foods on Earth, but it can be hard to replicate the perfection of a restaurant-quality burger in the comfort of your own home. This hamburger casserole captures the same magic in the form of an easy weeknight meal.

Get the Hamburger Casserole recipe.

a casserole dish filled with elbow macaroni, ground beef, and a creamy sauce
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE

Chicken Tamale Pie

Our simple, flavor-packed cornbread provides the perfect base for our shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, and plenty of melty cheese. If you're looking for the coziest weeknight dinner, this has gotta be next on your list.

Get the Chicken Tamale Pie recipe.

chicken tamale pie in a skillet with sour cream
PHOTO: LUCY SCHAEFFER; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Skillet Eggplant Parm

This dish has all the eggplant Parm flavors you love—including sliced rounds of tender eggplant, tangy marinara sauce, and plenty of cheese. Instead of breading each slice of eggplant, though, you'll top the entire skillet with panko bread crumbs, making it easy and light enough for a weeknight dinner this summer.

Get the Skillet Eggplant Parm recipe.

skillet eggplant parm
Andrew bui

Taco Spaghetti

One-pot taco spaghetti is a fast-as-can-be weeknight dinner that pairs all your favorite taco fixin’s with spaghetti rather than taco shells. Everything comes together in one pot—from browning the beef to simmering the sauce, even boiling the spaghetti!

Get the Taco Spaghetti recipe.

taco spaghetti
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Creamy Tuscan Butter White Bean Skillet

Creamy Tuscan anything is a cult classic here at Delish, but this vegetarian version might be our new favorite. Featuring white beans and spinach swimming in a luxurious tomato cream sauce, this hearty skillet dinner is so comforting and satisfying, you’ll never miss the chicken.

Get the Creamy Tuscan White Bean Skillet recipe.

cast iron skillet filled with creamy tuscan white beans topped with basil, with toast alongside
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE

Sloppy Joes

If you're craving a reliable, nostalgic, easy (and cheap) weeknight dinner, then there’s no debate: A sloppy Joes’ night is in order. The perfect answer to, “How far can I stretch this package of ground beef?” these only require a handful of simple ingredients (that you might already have!) to create a classic family dinner.

Get the Sloppy Joes recipe.

sloppy joes served on a toasted bun with chips
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: TAYLOR ANN SPENCER

Chicken & Broccoli

This fast and easy one-pot chicken and broccoli recipe is coated in a sweet and savory sauce with plenty of ginger and garlic for a weeknight dinner that beats take-out. This dish comes together in 20 minutes with minimal prep work too. Win win!

Get the Chicken & Broccoli recipe.

stir fried pieces of chicken and broccoli
PHOTO: BRYAN GARDNER; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Sheet-Pan Garlicky Shrimp & Veggies

This recipe combines well-seasoned shrimp with red bell peppers, broccoli, and onions for a quick and easy dinner ready in a little more than 30 minutes. Not only is it so simple to throw together, it's extremely versatile: swap out the veggies for your favorites, add even more, or switch up the seasonings.

Get the Sheet-Pan Garlicky Shrimp & Veggies recipe.

garlicky shrimp and veggies baked on a sheet pan
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Shrimp Tacos

Pan-seared shrimp get seasoned with homemade taco seasoning and drizzled with lime juice, then piled into a charred corn tortilla with crisp cabbage slaw and topped with jalapeno-garlic crema (a game changer). Whip these up for an easy weeknight dinner ready in under 45 minutes (!!) that is sure to impress.

Get the Shrimp Tacos recipe.

seasoned and seared shrimp topped with crisp cabbage slaw and creamy pickled jalapeno crema on a toasted corn tortilla
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Our ever-popular Peruvian roast chicken will forever be one of our favorites…unless we need to get dinner on the table ASAP. If you can relate, lean on chicken thighs instead for that smoky, garlicky chicken with its crispy skin, in less than half the time.

Get the Peruvian-Style Chicken With Green Sauce recipe.

peruvian style chicken drizzled with green sauce and served with lime
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE

Pizza Frittata

We loaded this frittata up with marinara, shredded mozzarella, and sliced pepperoni for savory pizza flavor in the classic frittata form. Serve at as the ultimate brunch dish, or for a protein-packed breakfast-for-dinner.

Get the Pizza Frittata recipe.

skillet frittata topped with pepperonis
PHOTO: JOSEPH DE LEO; FOOD STYLING: LAURA REGE

Low-Carb Turkey Gyro Bowls

With tender spiced meat, crunchy fresh veggies, tzatziki, and chewy pita, it's not hard to see why Greek gyros are so globally beloved. Inspired by this popular grab-and-go sandwich, we created this healthy but hearty "grain" bowl that's perfect for meal-prepping.

Get the Low-Carb Turkey Gyro Bowls recipe.

ground turkey with cauliflower rice, cucumber salad, and tzatziki
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: ADRIENNE ANDERSON

Chicken Fajitas

Focusing on only 3 key ingredients, our chicken fajita recipe requires minimal prep and cook time, meaning dinner on the table FAST. Follow our classic recipe for our best-ever version or use it as a jumping-off point to experiment with your favorite proteins, veggies, and toppings.

Get the Chicken Fajitas recipe.

chicken fajitas on a steaming plate with peppers and onions
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Blackened Shrimp Bowls

If you're looking for summer in a meal, turn to these blackened shrimp bowls. Not only are they delicious, these bowls are also a filling powerhouse, and are ripe for improvisation—try swapping in guac instead of avocadoes, corn salsa instead of grilled corn, or a different protein than shrimp... anything goes!

Get the Blackened Shrimp Bowls recipe.

blackened shrimp bowls with grilled corn, avocado, lime, and cilantro
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: SPENCER RICHARDS

Chicken Tacos

We say the more toppings the merrier. We like our chicken tacos topped with red onion (pickled onions would be great too), avocado, cilantro, and cheese. Pico de gallo, salsa, sour cream, or some crushed corn chips would also be delicious, so have fun with it!

Get the Chicken Tacos recipe.

flour tortillas on a plate filled with chicken, tomatoes, avocado and red onion
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Goulash

A classic nostalgic comfort dish, goulash is the hearty weeknight dinner we'll always crave. The best thing about it? Everything cooks together in one pot—even the pasta!

Get the Goulash recipe.

elbow macaroni in a tomato sauce
PHOTO: LUCY SCHAEFFER; FOOD STYLING: LAURA REGE

Feta & Herb-Crusted Salmon

For this Mediterranean-inspired dish, you just arrange your salmon on a sheet tray (lined with aluminum foil for the easiest cleanup), sprinkle on the toppings, and bake it for 25 minutes. No flipping, no sticking, and no mess!

Get the Feta & Herb-Crusted Salmon recipe.

feta and herb crusted salmon with lemons
PHOTO: LUCY SCHAEFFER; FOOD STYLING: TAYLOR ANN SPENCER

Creamy Peanut-Lime Chicken With Noodles

Who can resist rice noodles bathed in an abundance of sweet and creamy peanut butter sauce? Not us! In this recipe, the prep actually takes longer than the cooking, so feel free to make some elements ahead. With all them behind you, the dish comes together in a snap!

Get the Creamy Peanut-Lime Chicken With Noodles recipe.

chicken with noodles and carrots in a creamy peanut lime sauce topped with peanuts
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pizza

Chicken Alfredo and pizza are two kings of the comfort food realm, so when they join forces, you get something truly magical. Creamy Alfredo sauce is topped with sliced chicken, broccoli, and oodles of gooey mozz for a rich, saucy pizza that will revolutionize your weeknight dinner routine.

Get the Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pizza recipe.

chicken broccoli alfredo pizza cut into slices
PHOTO: ROCKY LUTEN; FOOD STLYING: TAYLOR ANN SPENCER

Taco Gnocchi Bake

In this recipe, gnocchi gets the taco treatment for a simple weeknight meal. Thanks to some ground beef, black beans, and plenty of cheddar cheese, it’s a fun twist on the potato-based pasta.

Get the Taco Gnocchi Bake recipe.

a pan with gnocchi covered in enchilada sauce, cheese, avocado, cilantro, and cherry tomatoes
PHOTO: JOSEPH DE LEO; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Pizza Casserole

From the realms of cheesy pizza and bubbling baked pasta comes a new family favorite: pizza casserole. Loaded with sausage, veggies, and plenty of cheese, this easy weeknight dinner has all of the cheesy, tomato-filled goodness of our favorite take-out pizza, neatly packaged in a 13"-by-9" pan.

Get the Pizza Casserole recipe.

pizza casserole
PHOTO: LUCY SCHAEFFER; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Brown Sugar BBQ Chicken

Craving BBQ pulled chicken? Good news—this slow-cooker recipe makes it easier than ever to create delicious, tender, and extra-flavorful pulled chicken right at home with minimal effort.

Get the Brown Sugar BBQ Chicken recipe.

brown sugar bbq chicken in a sandwich with slaw
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Cabbage Roll Skillet

Cabbage rolls just became a viable weeknight dinner with this quicker to make skillet dinner, which skips the cabbage rolling and gets dinner directly on the table. It’s less work, yet the payoff of a comforting home-cooked meal all the same.

Get the Cabbage Roll Skillet recipe.

cabbage roll skillet sprinkled with fresh dill and parsley
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Sheet-Pan Sausage & Vegetables

This sheet pan dinner works with whatever veggies you already have and requires basically zero effort. Most of the time spent is waiting while the sheet pan is in the oven, and there are minimal dishes to clean when it's all said and done. What more could you need?

Get the Sheet-Pan Sausage & Vegetables recipe.

sheet pan sausage and vegetables
LUCY SCHAEFFER

Mexican Chicken Casserole

Filled with a creamy sauce, two kinds of cheese, and plenty of chicken, there’s something in this dish for everyone. While this is certainly not a super-authentic Mexican dish, it does combine lots of flavors and ingredients that will remind you of tacos, enchiladas, and your favorite Mexican/Tex-Mex meals.

Get the Mexican Chicken Casserole recipe.

mexican chicken casserole topped with diced tomatoes, jalapenos and avocado
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Caprese Chicken & Polenta Bake

Gnocchi lovers, this dish is for you, but it has a little spin—rather than using gnocchi made from potatoes, it’s prepared with polenta gnocchi.

Get the Caprese Chicken & Polenta Bake recipe.

caprese chicken polenta bake
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE

French Bread Pizza

We've all been there: You're craving homemade pizza, but you want it fast—no time to deal with rolling out finicky pizza dough. The solution? Grab a loaf of French bread, and get ready for the pizza hack of a lifetime.

Get the French Bread Pizza recipe.

french bread pizza
JOEL GOLDBERG

Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Be sure to have some crusty bread on hand, because this sauce is KILLER. And don't skip the suggested lemon wedges—the bit of acid helps cut through all the cream!

Get the Creamy Tuscan Chicken recipe.

creamy tuscan chicken delishcom
Emily Hlavac Green

Green Chile Chicken Skillet Enchiladas

Craving homemade enchiladas and being in a hurry aren't really compatible since the classic Mexican dish requires many steps and a fair amount of time. Enter these chicken enchiladas, a quick take on the dish that comes together in one skillet.

Get the Green Chile Chicken Skillet Enchiladas recipe.

green chile chicken skillet enchiladas
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Chicken Tostadas

Tostadas might just be the perfect meal—these crunchy corn tortillas are easy to buy (or make!) AND they can act as a vehicle for whatever toppings you like. Here, that means creamy refried beans and a chile-spiked shredded chicken topping, but feel free to get creative.

Get the Chicken Tostadas recipe.

chicken tostadas
PHOTO: ANDREA MONZO; FOOD STYLIST: BROOKE CAISON

Tricolore Skillet Lasagna

We love a classic lasagna, but it can be a lot of work. This easy skillet version instead tosses the cooked noodles in an oniony marinara sauce, dollops them with pesto, and tops them with ample slices of fresh mozzarella and a shower of grated Parmesan.

Get the Tricolore Skillet Lasagna recipe.

tricolore skillet lasagna
ANDREW BUI

Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

If you can't get enough of the fresh flavors of bruschetta, get ready to meet your new favorite weeknight dinner. This 30-minute (!!) chicken pasta—loaded with cherry tomatoes, basil, and Parm—brings the summer vibes every time it's served.

Get the Bruschetta Chicken Pasta recipe.

bruschetta chicken pasta topped with fresh herbs and parmesan
PHOTO: LUCY SCHAEFFER; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Enchilada Casserole

Instead of rolling a bunch of enchiladas, this untraditional casserole speeds up the process by layering everything together in the pan. Go store-bought or make your own homemade enchilada sauce (bonus: you can adjust the heat up or down according to your preference!).

Get the Enchilada Casserole recipe.

enchilada fillings in a casserole topped with avocado cubes
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: TAYLOR ANN SPENCER

Creamy Steak Fettuccine

Whenever we crave steak but want to make it go a little further, this is the dish we make. It comes together quickly and is so full of flavor. It makes us forget chicken fettuccine Alfredo ever existed. If you want the steak without the pasta, may we suggest Cajun butter steak?

Get the Creamy Steak Fettuccine recipe.

creamy steak fettuccine
PARKER FEIERBACH

One-Pan Chicken & Quinoa

This quick and easy dinner is high in protein and takes very little effort. We love the Tex-Mex spices here; the chili powder and cayenne add a nice kick that the avocado and sour cream perfectly offset. Want more one-skillet wonders? Try our one-pan chicken and gnocchi next!

Get the One-Pan Chicken & Quinoa recipe.

one pan chicken and quinoa
Hearst Owned

One-Pan Coconut-Lime Chicken

We paired quick-cooking chicken cutlets with a spicy-sweet coconut milk sauce that’s out-of-this-world tasty. Tomatoes (and tomato paste) bring it back down to Earth, so you can make this over and over (and over!) again.

Get the One-Pan Coconut-Lime Chicken recipe.

one pan coconut lime chicken
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Baked Risotto With Lemon, Peas, & Parmesan

If you’ve never made risotto because you didn’t want to stand there stirring forever, then this recipe is for you. It packs all the satisfying flavor of a slow-stirred version into a fraction of the hands-on time!

Get the Baked Risotto with Lemon, Peas, & Parmesan recipe.

baked risotto with lemon, peas parmesan
ANDREW BUI

Chili Cheese Sweet Potato Casserole

If you think every bowl of chili should be hidden under mounds of melty cheese, this is the casserole for you. With roasted sweet potatoes and black bean chili layered together under a gooey blanket of cheese, this easy vegetarian weeknight dinner is both incredibly comforting and surprisingly hearty.

Get the Chili Cheese Sweet Potato Casserole recipe.

chili cheese sweet potato casserole
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: TAYLOR ANN SPENCER

Black Bean Tostadas

With only 5 ingredients, these black bean tostadas are the easiest and fastest meal to throw together. You can always include additional toppings like corn salsa, avocado ranch, or endless crunchy veggies like radishes or pickled red onions, but these are also delicious if you keep things simple, like we did here.

Get the Black Bean Tostadas recipe.

black bean tostadas
Lucy schaeffer

Pepper Steak

Broccoli haters—if your favorite steak stir-fry is always ruined by the inclusion of those little trees (sorry, beef and broccoli), then let us introduce you to your new favorite stir-fry: pepper steak.

Get the Pepper Steak recipe.

steak with sliced red and green peppers
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Arroz Con Pollo

Want something awesome for dinner but don't want to spend your entire evening cooking and cleaning? Arroz con pollo (chicken with rice in Spanish) is the the perfect recipe. It's an easy one-pot meal that doesn't taste like one, and it tastes even better as leftovers.

Get the Arroz Con Pollo recipe.

arroz con pollo
Parker feierbach

One-Pan Salsa Verde Shrimp & Rice

Use your favorite jarred or homemade salsa verde to make this extremely easy and flavorful dish. Everything cooks in the same pot for a mess-free and, most importantly, quick weeknight dinner. It's about to be one of your new favorites.

Get the One-Pan Salsa Verde Shrimp & Rice recipe.

one pan salsa verde shrimp and rice
ERIK BERNSTEIN

French Onion Baked Potatoes

Cozy, warming, and perfectly rich, our classic French onion soup is a recurring favorite. But! When we want to put those bowls away and dig into something a bit heartier, we turn to the tried-and-true potato to transform the staple soup into a filling comfort food we crave.

Get the French Onion Baked Potatoes recipe.

baked potatoes filled with french onion soup inspired fillings and topped with fresh thyme
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Chicken Nugget Parm Casserole

Craving chicken Parm but not in the mood for all the time it requires to prepare this labor of love dish? Opt for our chicken nugget Parmesan casserole instead. This comforting dish has all the cheesy flavor you know and crave, but with simple shortcuts to cut down on all that hands-on cooking time (and effort).

Get the Chicken Nugget Parm Casserole recipe.

chicken nugget parm casserole
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Salmon & Potato Skillet

While the potatoes here cook, the salmon takes a quick bath in an easy marinade that will double as cooking fat in this simple dish. In just 45 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and filling meal that can be customized every time you make it.

Get the Salmon & Potato Skillet recipe.

baked salmon potato skillet with shallots and dill yogurt sauce
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

BBQ Chicken Twice-Baked Potatoes

Missing summertime BBQ chicken? Stuff sweet potatoes with rotisserie chicken and your favorite BBQ sauce, then top them with Gouda for a healthy chicken dinner you can enjoy long into fall and beyond.

Get the BBQ Chicken Twice-Baked Potatoes recipe.

barbecue chicken sweet potatoes horizontal
Ethan Calabrese

No-Boil Baked Chicken Pasta

An ode to baked ziti, this baked pasta is amped up with chicken and spinach and features fun, twirly fusilli pasta rather than ziti. Not only does this recipe cut down on dishes, its hands-off approach adds a little breathing room to dinnertime. Win!

Get the No-Boil Baked Chicken Pasta recipe.

no boil baked chicken pasta in a white casserole dish
PHOTO: ERIK BERNSTEIN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Cabbage Parmesan

Craving chicken Parm but trying to eat less meat or save some money? This cabbage recipe is about to blow your mind. It's even Italian mother-approved!

Get the Cabbage Parmesan recipe.

cabbage parmesan
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Homemade Crunchwrap Supreme

We're so obsessed with Taco Bell’s Crunchwrap Supreme that we have multiple copycat recipes. While we love our vegan Crunchwrap and our Big Mac Crunchwrap, we still have a special place in our hearts for the original meat-loving version. They're not Taco Bell prices, but they're still pretty dang close.

Get the Copycat Taco Bell Crunchwrap Supreme recipe.

copycat crunchwrap supreme
ETHAN CALABRESE

Best-Ever Buffalo Chicken Pizza

Got some leftover roasted chicken or rotisserie chicken? This pizza is the PERFECT way to use it! Buffalo sauce is one of our favorite ways to doctor our leftovers, and if you've still got some leftover rotisserie chicken, you've got to try this combo in our Buffalo baked ziti recipe.

Get the Best-Ever Buffalo Chicken Pizza recipe.

best ever buffalo chicken pizza
Parker feierbach

Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl

When we want a tried-and-true perfect meal, we always go back to the Chipotle chicken burrito bowl. It’s classic, reliable, and, best of all, completely customizable depending on our mood. No corn salsa? Extra guac? At home, you can have it all, for cheap!

Get the Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl recipe.

copycat chipotle burrito bowl
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING BARRETT WASHBURNE

Chicken Fried Rice

If you have leftover rice hanging out in your fridge, then this fried rice is a no-brainer. Shake up your weeknight chicken dinner by recreating the take-out staple right at home. Not a chicken fan? Try our beef fried rice, kimchi fried rice, or pineapple fried rice instead.

Get the Chicken Fried Rice recipe.

fried rice with chicken, egg, peas, carrots, and green onion
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: ADRIENNE ANDERSON

Baked Feta Pasta

This pasta went viral on TikTok, and for good reason! Roasting a block of feta with bursting tomatoes is amazing, and you can add things like shallots and smashed garlic to make it your own.

Get the Baked Feta Pasta recipe.

baked feta pasta
ANDREW BUI

Garlicky Lemon Baked Tilapia

Tilapia has a very mild fish taste and is a great way to get those non-fish eaters to love it. Baking it requires very little effort with zero risk of the fish sticking to your skillet or grill. A win win!

Get the Garlicky Lemon Baked Tilapia recipe.

baked tilapia vertical
PARKER FEIERBACH

Air Fryer Pork Chops

Due to the intense heat circulation that happens in the air fryer, the outside of these chops crisps slightly while the inside stays nice and juicy. Twenty minutes later—most of it hands-off time—and it's basically instant dinner.

Get the Air Fryer Pork Chops recipe.

air fryer pork chops delishcom
PARKER FEIERBACH

Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon

A longtime favorite of Delish readers, this savory-sweet salmon never disappoints. Searing fish might seem intimidating but, once you get the hang of it, it'll be second nature—just follow our easy tips.

Get the Honey Garlic-Glazed Salmon recipe.

honey garlic glazed salmon
Hearst Owned

Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas

For these fajitas you simply toss all of the ingredients in an easy marinade of oil and taco spices like cumin and chili powder and then bake it all together on a sheet pan (for just 20-25 minutes). Just add tortillas or rice and you're good to go!

Get the Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas recipe.

sheet pan chicken fajitas
Chelsea Lupkin

Shrimp & Snow Pea Stir Fry

Allowing the shrimp here some time to marinate adds an extra layer of flavor to really make those 5 ingredients stretch. But DON’T let that stop the imagination from flowing—just like you can swap the ingredients, you can add more as well.

Get the Shrimp & Snow Pea Stir Fry recipe.

shrimp and snow pea stir fry
LUCY SCHAEFFER PHOTOGRAPHY

Beef & Broccoli Ramen

Ramen noodles are king in the weeknight dinner hack department, and this take on classic beef and broccoli might be our favorite. Thinly sliced steak and tender broccoli join those unmistakable noodles in a savory ginger soy sauce for an all-in-one dinner that’s sure to become a weeknight classic.

Get the Beef & Broccoli Ramen recipe.

beef and broccoli ramen in a pan
PHOTO: ROCKY LUTEN; FOOD STYLING: TAYLOR ANN SPENCER

Smoked Salmon Pasta

Smoked salmon pasta sounds really fancy, but it's actually one of the easiest and fastest dishes we've ever made. It comes together in just under 30 minutes, meaning it's perfect for whipping up for a weeknight seafood dinner, but still good enough to impress your guests for holidays and celebrations.

Get the Smoked Salmon Pasta recipe.

smoked salmon pasta
PARKER FEIERBACH

Kung Pao Chicken Meatballs

If you are looking to spice up your routine chicken dinners, look no further. These chicken meatballs have a kick from a traditional kung pao sauce. These meatballs are filling on their own, but serving over rice will also help cut some of the heat!

Get the Kung Pao Chicken Meatballs recipe.

kung pao chicken meatballs
LUCY SCHAEFFER

Copycat Chicken Lettuce Wraps

In our attempt to copy the fan favorite from P.F. Chang's, we flavored ground chicken with hoisin sauce (a fermented bean paste that gives the chicken the quintessential Chinese-American flavor), soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, sriracha, and sesame oil. Water chestnuts add a nice crunch here too.

Get the Copycat Chicken Lettuce Wraps recipe.

asian chicken lettuce wraps
Parker Feierbach

Classic Shrimp Scampi

Shrimp scampi is an Italian-American dish that is usually made using plump, pink shrimp served over a heaping bowl of pasta. We think the pasta detracts from the delectable simplicity of this dish, so we made it without, but feel free to add some if you like!

Get the Classic Shrimp Scampi recipe.

shrimp scampi tossed with breadcrumbs, fresh parsley, and red pepper flakes
Hearst Owned

Garlicky Roasted Cauliflower Pasta

In this recipe, cauliflower gets mashed into a paste to create a light sauce for the pasta that adds a ton of flavor. It's simple, light, and perfect for when you want comfort without being weighed down by something overly rich.

Get the Garlicky Roasted Cauliflower Pasta recipe.

garlicky roasted cauliflower pasta
LUCY SCHAEFFER PHOTOGRAPHY

Vegan Crunchwraps

We updated the fast food favorite to be totally vegan and completely irresistible. Creamy vegan queso dip and meaty lentils make a satisfying filling while a quick trip in a hot skillet adds crunch to every bite.

Get the Vegan Crunchwraps recipe.

chipotle
ERIK BERNSTEIN

Tofu Katsu Curry

This hearty Japanese dinner comes complete with crispy sesame-panko-crusted tofu, tender vegetables, and a rich and flavorful curry sauce.

Get the Tofu Katsu Curry recipe.

sesame tofu katsu curry
LUCY SCHAEFFER PHOTOGRAPHY

One-Pot Shrimp Primavera

This loaded fettuccine makes it so easy for you (and your family!) to eat your vegetables. We love adding quick-cooking shrimp to the pot for protein once the pasta is almost al-dente.

Get the One-Pot Shrimp Primavera recipe.

one pot shrimp primavera pasta
PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: SIMON ANDREWS

Creamy Mushroom Pasta

If a bowl of creamy, earthy, umami-rich pasta sounds good to you, give this flexible recipe a go. It tastes great with any variety of mushrooms, and is easily adapted with alternate alliums, herbs, nuts, pasta shapes, and hard cheeses.

Get the Creamy Mushroom Pasta recipe.

creamy mushroom pasta
JOEL GOLDBERG

Garlicky Spaghetti

One bite and you'll forget that all you needed to pull off this fancy-tasting pasta dinner was garlic, lemon, and a fresh herb (parsley, basil, or chives all work, so use your favorite!).

Get the Garlicky Spaghetti recipe.

garlicky spaghetti
PARKER FEIERBACH

Tuscan Butter Shrimp

Is there anything *authentically* Italian about this recipe? Nope. Is it delicious? 100%. In fact, this Tuscan butter sauce is so good, you'll be tempted to eat it straight out of the pan. (And we wouldn't blame you!)

Get the Tuscan Butter Shrimp recipe.

tuscan butter shrimp
Parker Feierbach

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