When it comes to cooking, many of us struggle with finding the time and energy to prepare a delicious meal after a long day. That’s why we’re excited to share our collection of 20 quick and easy weeknight recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household. From one-pot pasta dishes to sheet pan meals and speedy stir-fries, these recipes are designed to be cooked quickly and with minimal fuss.
Whether you’re a busy professional or a parent looking for ways to get dinner on the table without sacrificing flavor or quality, these recipes have got you covered. And the best part? They can all be made in 30 minutes or less, making them perfect for a weeknight meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
In this article, we’ll share our top picks for quick and easy weeknight recipes that are sure to become staples in your kitchen. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, there’s something for everyone on this list.
One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta
A rich and creamy pasta dish that combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and tender pasta, all cooked in one pot.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the chicken broth and garlic to a simmer in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pasta, stirring to coat with the garlic-broth mixture.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
4. Stir in the heavy cream, parsley, salt, and pepper.
5. Remove from heat; stir in parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Veggies
Brighten up your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and easy-to-make sheet pan recipe, featuring tender chicken and colorful vegetables infused with the warmth of garlic and the brightness of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 large red onion, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken to the marinade, tossing to coat.
4. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper. Arrange chicken, bell pepper, zucchini, and onion in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
15-Minute Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Quickly cook beef and broccoli in a savory sauce with this easy stir-fry recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook beef strips according to package instructions or cook in a pan with 1 tablespoon of olive oil until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. In the same pan, add minced garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
3. Add broccoli florets, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir-fry for 5-6 minutes or until broccoli is tender.
4. Return cooked beef to the pan and stir-fry with the vegetables for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Easy Baked Honey Mustard Salmon
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional salmon, this recipe yields a moist and flavorful dish with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and salt.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle olive oil over the salmon, then brush the honey-mustard mixture evenly over each fillet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through to your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cheesy Taco Skillet
Get ready for a flavorful one-pot wonder! This Cheesy Taco Skillet is an easy and satisfying meal that combines the best of tacos with a comforting skillet dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 6-8 corn tortillas, torn into pieces
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cooking oil or butter, for greasing the skillet
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large cast-iron skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the taco seasoning and diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer.
5. Top the mixture with shredded cheese and torn tortilla pieces. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Speedy Chicken Quesadillas
Get ready to devour a flavorful and satisfying meal with these speedy chicken quesadillas!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 2 large tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, onion, and bell pepper.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese on half of the tortilla.
4. Add the chicken mixture on top of the cheese, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Serve: With your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, salsa, avocado, and cilantro. Enjoy!
30-Minute Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of creamy tomato basil soup, ready in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add fresh tomatoes (or canned diced tomatoes), chicken broth, heavy cream, tomato paste, and dried basil.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Quick Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles
A speedy yet satisfying dinner that combines succulent shrimp, zesty garlic butter, and nutty zucchini noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 medium zucchini
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the zucchini noodles according to package instructions or using a spiralizer until al dente. Reserve.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet; set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add remaining 1 tablespoon butter, white wine (if using), and chicken broth. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Stir in chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine cooked shrimp and zucchini noodles. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Easy BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches Recipe
This recipe brings together tender pulled pork, tangy barbecue sauce, and soft buns for a crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw or pickles for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder.
3. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot with a lid. Cover and bake for 6-8 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
4. After 6 hours, brush the pork with barbecue sauce and continue to cook for an additional 30 minutes.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and serve on hamburger buns. Top with coleslaw or pickles if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (includes 30-minute finishing time)
One-Pan Sausage and Peppers
A flavorful and hearty meal that’s ready in under an hour, this one-pan wonder combines juicy sausage with colorful peppers and potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite herbs or spices
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sausage and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. Add the sliced peppers, onion, and potatoes to the pan. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
5. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Return the sausage to the pan and stir to combine with the vegetables.
7. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the sausage is cooked through.
8. Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs or spices.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Simple Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach-feta mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fast Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls
Satisfy your cravings with this quick and flavorful recipe that combines juicy chicken, savory teriyaki sauce, and fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp teriyaki sauce
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the chicken in a large skillet over medium-high heat, until browned and cooked through (5-6 minutes).
2. Add teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the skillet. Stir to combine.
3. Serve the chicken mixture over cooked white rice.
4. Add frozen peas and carrots on top of the chicken.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Veggie Fried Rice
Easy Veggie Fried Rice Recipe
Summary: A simple and flavorful Chinese-inspired dish that can be prepared quickly with leftover rice, mixed vegetables, and a few essential ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they’re tender-crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in cooked rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
7. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quick and Cheesy Tortellini Bake
A comforting, creamy pasta bake that’s ready in no time. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) package of cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1 tablespoon of butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, and butter. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Add cooked tortellini to the cheese mixture and stir until well coated.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
7. Remove foil and bake an additional 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 22-28 minutes
30-Minute Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Elevate your weeknight dinner with these tender, flavorful steak bites smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce. This 30-minute recipe is perfect for a busy evening when you need something quick and satisfying.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef top sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and butter until well combined.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak bites and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. Remove from oven and brush with garlic butter mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Simple Black Bean and Corn Quesadillas
This recipe combines the flavors of black beans, corn, and melted cheese inside a crispy tortilla. Perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together black beans, corn kernels, olive oil, garlic, and cumin.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the bean-corn mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Sprinkle with cheese, then fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (4 quesadillas)
Speedy Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta
A zesty and flavorful pasta dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich lemon butter sauce, ready in just 15 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium.
5. Add lemon juice and white wine (if using) to the skillet. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.
6. Simmer sauce for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
7. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and sauce in a serving dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Easy Chicken Alfredo Bake
Satisfy your cravings with this comforting, creamy casserole that’s ready in under an hour!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cups cooked fettuccine noodles
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine remaining butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer; let cook for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Combine cooked noodles, chicken, and sauce in a large mixing bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with additional Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pot Mexican Rice Casserole
A flavorful and satisfying casserole that combines the best of Mexican cuisine with the convenience of a one-pot meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Optional: 1 pound cooked chicken or ground beef for added protein
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large, deep pot over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add rice, water, diced tomatoes, corn kernels, and cheese. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Wraps
This refreshing recipe combines the creaminess of Greek yogurt with the zest of Mediterranean flavors, all wrapped up in a convenient and delicious wrap.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 whole wheat tortilla wraps
– Lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and red onion for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Add the diced chicken to the yogurt mixture and stir to combine.
3. Stir in chopped parsley.
4. Lay out a tortilla wrap and spoon about 1/4 cup of the chicken-yogurt mixture onto the center of the wrap.
5. Top with lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and red onion (if using).
6. Fold the bottom half of the wrap up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly to form a neat wrap.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep only)
Summary
Get ready for a culinary rescue! This collection of 20 quick and easy weeknight recipes will save you from cooking woes. From One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta to Speedy Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta, these dishes are designed to be cooked in no time. Enjoy Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Veggies, Cheesy Taco Skillet, or Easy BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches – perfect for a family dinner or a busy weeknight meal. These recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters! Try one tonight and discover the ease of cooking with these 20 delicious recipes.