Are you tired of the same old weeknight routine? Do you find yourself scrambling to come up with a new dinner idea that’s quick, delicious, and satisfying? Look no further! Blue Apron has got you covered with their impressive selection of flavorful and easy-to-make recipes. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or bold and international-inspired, we’ve rounded up 20 mouthwatering options to spice up your busy weeknights.
From tender steak dishes to spicy tacos and savory pasta recipes, there’s something on this list for everyone. And the best part? Each recipe is carefully crafted by Blue Apron’s team of expert chefs to ensure that it’s both easy to make and packed with flavor.
In our next article, we’ll be diving into each of these 20 recipes in more detail, sharing cooking tips, ingredient substitutions, and more. But for now, let’s get started by exploring the incredible range of flavors and cuisines on offer…
Garlic Butter Steak with Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet impressive recipe, featuring tender garlic butter steak paired with crispy roasted potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
3. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and thyme. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking.
4. Roast the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until crispy.
5. Grill or pan-sear the steak to desired level of doneness (medium-rare recommended). Brush with garlic butter mixture during the last minute of cooking.
6. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.
7. Serve sliced steak with roasted potatoes and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Lime Crema
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful and spicy recipe featuring succulent shrimp, crispy tortillas, and a tangy lime crema.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime Crema (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro, radishes
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
4. Toss the cooked shrimp with the spice mixture and season with salt and pepper.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
Lime Crema:
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt, to taste
Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Lemon Herb Chicken with Couscous
Lemon Herb Chicken with Couscous: A Bright and Fresh Twist on a Classic Combination!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
4. Cook couscous according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
5. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve chicken atop couscous and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Pappardelle Pasta
Experience the rich flavors of autumn with this decadent pasta dish, featuring tender mushrooms and a velvety sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pappardelle pasta
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pappardelle according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and mushroom sauce. Toss until coated.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Beef Bibimbap with Gochujang Sauce
This recipe brings together the flavors of Korea in a harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, and savory notes. Sizzling beef short ribs are served atop a bed of mixed vegetables, fluffy rice, and a fried egg, all wrapped up in a crispy sesame seed pancake.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef short ribs
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, carrots, zucchini)
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 eggs
– 4-6 sesame seed pancakes (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tbsp Gochujang sauce
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Sesame oil and salt for seasoning
Instructions:
1. Marinate the beef short ribs in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and ginger for at least 30 minutes.
2. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
3. Prepare the mixed vegetables by sautéing them in sesame oil with salt to taste.
4. Cook the eggs to desired doneness.
5. Assemble the Bibimbap by placing a scoop of rice on a plate, followed by the marinated beef, mixed vegetables, and fried egg.
6. Drizzle Gochujang sauce over the top and serve with a sesame seed pancake on the side.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Mediterranean Chickpea and Feta Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional salads, this Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the creaminess of chickpeas with the tanginess of feta cheese and the freshness of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, feta cheese, parsley, and mint.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the chickpea mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry with Tofu
A creamy and aromatic curry that combines the richness of coconut milk with the tenderness of tofu, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in curry paste, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and let curry simmer, uncovered, for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops with Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this sweet and savory combination.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 pounds)
– 1/2 cup balsamic glaze
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze, olive oil, onion, garlic, and thyme.
3. Season pork chops with salt and pepper. Brush both sides with the balsamic mixture.
4. Cook pork chops in a skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, boil sweet potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with butter and salt.
6. Serve pork chops atop mashed sweet potatoes.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Harissa-Spiced Salmon with Quinoa
This recipe combines the flavors of North Africa with the freshness of salmon, served on a bed of nutty quinoa. Harissa-spiced salmon fillets are pan-seared to perfection and paired with a fluffy quinoa bowl, making for a quick and impressive meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp harissa
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1/2 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together harissa and olive oil.
3. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Pan-sear the salmon in the harissa mixture for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
6. Serve pan-seared salmon on top of quinoa and garnish with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Burgers
Elevate your burger game with the sweet, savory combination of caramelized onions and creamy Gruyère cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 hamburger buns
– 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lettuce, tomato, pickles
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large skillet, cook onions over low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
3. Meanwhile, form beef patties and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Assemble burgers by spreading a spoonful of caramelized onions on the bottom bun, followed by a beef patty, a sprinkle of Gruyère cheese, and finishing with the top bun.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (onions) + 8-10 minutes (burgers)
Vegetable Stir-Fry with Ginger Soy Sauce
This recipe combines the savory flavors of soy sauce and ginger with a variety of colorful vegetables, making for a quick and delicious meal. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a flavorful stir-fry that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and minced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ginger and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add the broccoli, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Cook for 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Add the garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches with Slaw
Get ready for a taste sensation! This recipe combines the tender juiciness of slow-cooked chicken with the tangy crunch of a refreshing slaw, all wrapped up in a soft bun.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– Slaw ingredients:
+ 1 head of cabbage, shredded
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
+ 1 tsp honey
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. Place chicken breasts in a large baking dish and pour BBQ sauce over them.
3. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 4-5 hours, or until tender and easily shredded.
4. Shred the chicken with two forks and set aside.
5. In a bowl, combine slaw ingredients and mix well.
6. Assemble sandwiches by placing shredded chicken on buns and topping with slaw.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (slow cooker) + assembly time
Pesto Penne with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines the rich flavors of pesto sauce with the sweetness of roasted cherry tomatoes and the creaminess of penne pasta. A perfect summer meal that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup roasted cherry tomatoes (see notes)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cherry tomatoes with a pinch of salt and roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a blender, combine basil leaves, olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth.
4. Add cooked pasta to the pesto sauce and toss to combine.
5. Add roasted cherry tomatoes and toss gently to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Moroccan-Spiced Lamb Meatballs with Yogurt Sauce
Moroccan-Spiced Lamb Meatballs with Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Experience the vibrant flavors of Morocco with these tender lamb meatballs, infused with aromatic spices and served in a refreshing yogurt sauce. This dish is perfect for a unique dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, mix yogurt, honey, and lemon juice in a small bowl.
6. Serve the meatballs warm with the yogurt sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened Cod with Mango Salsa
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and refreshing recipe that combines the bold flavors of blackened cod with the sweetness of mango salsa. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Mango Salsa (recipe below)
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the cod fillets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Sprinkle the blackening spice mixture evenly over both sides of the cod.
5. Cook the cod for 12-15 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Meanwhile, prepare the Mango Salsa by combining all ingredients in a bowl and mixing well.
7. Serve the blackened cod with mango salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet
A flavorful and spicy one-pot dish that combines succulent shrimp, savory sausage, and crunchy vegetables in a rich Cajun seasoning broth. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 2 medium bell peppers, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage and cook for 5 minutes, or until browned.
3. Add bell peppers, onion, and garlic; cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
4. Add shrimp and Cajun seasoning; stir to combine.
5. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 2-3 minutes, or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ratatouille with Herbed Polenta
This classic Provençal dish combines the flavors of tender vegetables, savory tomato sauce, and creamy herbed polenta. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side dish, this recipe is sure to transport you to the sun-kissed hills of France.
Ingredients:
For the Ratatouille:
– 1 large eggplant, diced
– 2 large zucchinis, diced
– 1 large red bell pepper, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Herbed Polenta:
– 1 cup polenta
– 4 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roast eggplant, zucchinis, and bell pepper with garlic for 30 minutes.
3. In a large skillet, combine roasted vegetables, crushed tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20-25 minutes.
4. Cook polenta according to package instructions. Stir in olive oil, rosemary, and salt to taste.
5. Serve Ratatouille over Herbed Polenta.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Teriyaki Glazed Meatloaf with Green Beans
A sweet and savory twist on the classic meatloaf, this recipe combines the rich flavor of teriyaki sauce with the tender texture of green beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 bunch green beans, trimmed
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl until just combined.
3. Transfer mixture to a loaf pan and smooth top.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, steam green beans with cooking spray or oil until tender.
6. During the last 10 minutes of meatloaf baking, brush with remaining teriyaki sauce.
7. Serve meatloaf with steamed green beans.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Chimichurri Steak and Avocado Rice Bowl
This Argentine-inspired dish combines tender grilled steak with creamy avocado, tangy chimichurri sauce, and fluffy rice for a flavorful and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 tbsp red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup chimichurri sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, parsley, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the steak.
4. Grill the steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired level of doneness.
5. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
6. Cook white rice according to package instructions.
7. Assemble the bowls by placing cooked rice at the bottom, topped with sliced steak, diced avocado, and a spoonful of chimichurri sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Butternut Squash and Sage Risotto
A creamy and comforting Italian-inspired dish, perfect for a chilly fall evening. The sweetness of roasted butternut squash pairs beautifully with the earthy flavor of sage.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 4 cups Arborio rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons fresh sage leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and roast for 45 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add warmed broth, white wine (if using), butter, and roasted squash puree to the rice mixture. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 20-25 minutes or until creamy and tender.
5. Stir in chopped sage leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes
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