20 Easy Dinner Recipes For Those On Struggle Bus

Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole

My cheeseburger tater tot casserole features seasoned ground beef, crunchy tots, and plenty of melty cheese. This easy recipe tastes like a burger and fries but requires way less effort. Get the recipe: Cheeseburger Casserole

Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Marry Me Chicken Pasta features a creamy, tomato-infused sauce, grated parmesan, tender pasta, and crispy, buttery chicken cutlets. The rich sauce is delicious on its own, but the addition of lean chicken makes it a complete and irresistible dish.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Air Fryer Turkey Wings

These air fryer turkey wings are dry-brined with a perfect blend of savory and sweet seasonings, making them a delicious and healthy alternative to deep-fried wings. Ready in just minutes, they’re a great option for a family dinner, game day appetizer, or holiday meal. Meaty and packed with protein, these wings are a fantastic choice during the turkey season.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Wings

Beef Tenderloin Tips in Mushroom Gravy

Seared tenderloin tips covered in mushroom gravy. — Beef Tenderloin Tips in Mushroom Gravy. Photo credit: Dishes With Dad.

Beef Tenderloin Tips in Mushroom Gravy is a rich and savory dish made by sautéing tender beef tips in a flavorful mushroom gravy. The recipe is quick and easy, ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. The beef is seared to perfection and paired with a creamy gravy made from mushrooms, onions, garlic, and beef stock. Serve with mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious gravy for a comforting meal.
Get the Recipe: Beef Tenderloin Tips in Mushroom Gravy

Asian Ground Chicken Rice Bowls

These Asian Ground Chicken Rice Bowls are quick to prepare, taking only 30 minutes, and are bursting with delicious flavor. They're ideal for busy weeknights or can be made in advance for a week of meal prep. The best part is that you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your personal taste, dietary needs, or macro goals. Whether you prefer a lighter option or want to load up on protein, these bowls can be tailored to fit any preference.
Get the Recipe: Asian Ground Chicken Rice Bowls

Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes

Ground chicken Sloppy Joes are a flavorful, tangy dish that comes together in one pan with minimal ingredients. Plus, this American favorite is ready in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal. It's an easy, satisfying option for anyone craving comfort food on a time crunch.
Get the Recipe: Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes

Pantry Pasta

Skillet of Italian Seasoning Pasta with freshly shredded Parmesan cheese on top. — Pantry Pasta. Photo credit: NeighborFood.

This Pantry Pasta is a quick and creamy dish that you can whip up in under 30 minutes! Simply grab a can of evaporated milk, Italian seasoning, a block of Parmesan, and any leftover ingredients you have on hand to create this weeknight favorite. It's a go-to meal that's perfect for busy days and never gets old! You can easily customize it with different spices or extras to suit your taste.
Get the Recipe: Pantry Pasta

Beef Enchilada Soup

Scalloped bowl of enchilada soup topped with sour cream, cheese, cilantro, and avocado slices. — Beef Enchilada Soup. Photo credit: Ground Beef Recipes.

Enchilada Soup brings the rich, cheesy flavors of beef enchiladas into a deliciously creamy, quick 30-minute soup. This simple recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite for the whole family, perfect for busy weeknights. With its hearty ingredients and comforting taste, it's a dish everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Beef Enchilada Soup

Cajun Shrimp

This Cajun Shrimp Pasta combines succulent shrimp, bell peppers, garlic, shallots, and aromatic spices for a flavorful, impressive dish. A splash of cream adds richness, while Cajun seasoning gives it a perfect hint of heat. Ready in just over 30 minutes, it’s a quick and easy option for dinner when you want to impress without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Shrimp\

Sheet Pan Beef and Broccoli

Beef and broccoli in a bowl with chopsticks. — Sheet Pan Beef and Broccoli. Photo credit: In The Kitch.

This sheet pan beef and broccoli with teriyaki sauce is a simple and speedy dinner option, perfect for busy individuals. Sheet pan meals have gained popularity for their ease and deliciousness, providing a one-pan solution that saves time and effort. With just a few ingredients, you can enjoy a flavorful meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Beef and Broccoli

Chicken Cobbler

This viral TikTok Chicken Cobbler recipe is a tasty, one-pan dish that brings together buttery biscuits, mixed vegetables, and shredded chicken for a satisfying meal. It’s a comforting, easy-to-make dinner using simple ingredients, including a box of Cheddar Bay biscuit mix for a quick shortcut. With minimal prep, this meal can be in the oven in just minutes, making it perfect for busy nights! The combination of flavors and textures makes it a family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cobbler

Sausage Rice

Packed with flavorful ground sausage, this Sausage Rice recipe is a must-try! Whether served as a main dish or a side, it’s a versatile option that works great year-round. With its savory combination of ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Rice

Pulled Pork Tater Tot Casserole

Close up of a scoop of tater tot casserole made with pulled pork barbecue. — Pulled Pork Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: The Soccer Mom Blog.

This easy pulled pork tater tot casserole combines crispy tater tots, gooey melted cheese, and zesty BBQ sauce for a flavorful dish that's ready in just 30 minutes with only four ingredients. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, it's sure to please everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork Tater Tot Casserole

Mahi Mahi Recipe with Lemon Garlic Sauce

Skillet filled with fully cooked mahi mahi fillets cooked in a lemon butter sauce and garnished with fresh parsley. — Mahi Mahi Recipe with Lemon Garlic Sauce. Photo credit: The Forked Spoon.

This Mahi Mahi recipe offers a quick and flavorful way to prepare fish with a lemon garlic sauce. In just 30 minutes, you can pan-sear mahi-mahi fillets in a buttery garlic sauce that pairs perfectly with a variety of sides like rice, couscous, or mashed potatoes. With just seven ingredients, it's a simple and delicious meal. For a different twist, you can also grill the mahi-mahi instead of pan-searing it.
Get the Recipe: Mahi Mahi Recipe with Lemon Garlic Sauce

Skillet Chicken Pot Pie

Enjoy all the warm, comforting flavors of a classic chicken pot pie with none of the extra cleanup—this Skillet Chicken Pot Pie is a one-pan marvel! Packed with tender chicken, plenty of vegetables, and a rich, creamy herb sauce, it’s crowned with a single buttery, flaky crust that’s pure perfection. Easy to make and even easier to love, this recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It's the perfect dish to bring the family together around the table.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Chicken Pot Pie

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a bold and flavorful dinner option that packs a punch of heat and zest! It’s an ideal choice for shrimp lovers and anyone who enjoys the irresistible balance of sweet and spicy flavors. Plus, it’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Drumsticks

These Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Drumsticks are tender, juicy, and coated in a zesty buffalo sauce, making them ideal for game day, family dinners, or whenever you need a simple recipe that’s sure to please a crowd. Pair them with celery sticks and ranch for the ultimate appetizer experience!
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Drumsticks

Beef Carbonara

A generous mound of Italian carbonara pasta made using ground beef on a serving dish. — Beef Carbonara. Photo credit: Chocolates and Chai.

This beef carbonara recipe puts a unique spin on traditional Italian Carbonara, which typically uses pancetta. This pork-free alternative is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner and comes together in under 30 minutes. It's an excellent choice for beginner cooks looking for a simple yet satisfying meal. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy rich, creamy flavors with minimal effort!
Get the Recipe: Beef Carbonara

Baked Ravioli Casserole

Top down view of the cheese ravioli bake. — Baked Ravioli Casserole. Photo credit: Recipes From A Pantry.

This baked ravioli casserole is a simple and satisfying dish made with just five ingredients and ready to enjoy in under 30 minutes. It's a no-fuss baked pasta recipe that's sure to be a hit with the whole family. Perfect for busy weeknights, it delivers comfort and flavor with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ravioli Casserole

Oven Baked Beef Tacos

Tacos in a casserole dish with ground beef onion and cheese. — Oven Baked Beef Tacos. Photo credit: Princess Pinky Girl.

Oven-Baked Beef Tacos are a simple and incredibly tasty way to enjoy beef tacos. They feature warm, crispy hard shells filled with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, beans, and all your favorite taco toppings. Perfect for any occasion, these tacos are always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, they’re quick and easy to prepare, making them ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Beef Tacos

killet Chicken Thighs

These skillet chicken thighs are quick and easy, going from the stovetop to your plate in just minutes. Bone-in thighs are seared with rosemary and lemon, then roasted in the oven for a crispy, flavorful skin. The result is a perfect balance of tenderness and savory taste, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Chicken Thighs