My Family Always Begs Me To Make These 20 Dinners

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Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Baking Beauty.

This buffalo chicken mac and cheese brings together tender pasta smothered in a rich, creamy sauce and finished with tangy blue cheese crumbles. The spicy buffalo chicken adds a bold kick that perfectly balances the cheesy goodness. It’s a hearty, comforting dish that combines two classic favorites into one, making it an instant crowd-pleaser. Perfect for sharing during Game Day or any casual gathering with friends and family, this recipe is sure to satisfy both cheese lovers and spice fans alike.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Ritz Cracker Chicken

Ritz Cracker Chicken. Photo credit: Baking Beauty.

Crispy, golden chicken with a rich buttery flavor, baked to perfection instead of fried. This simple recipe uses just 5 ingredients, making it quick and stress-free for busy weeknights. Each bite is packed with flavor that easily rivals store-bought mixes, but homemade tastes fresher and more satisfying. Perfect for serving with your favorite sides, this chicken is sure to become a family favorite. It’s comfort food made easy, without any complicated steps.
Get the Recipe: Ritz Cracker Chicken

Pizza Pasta

Pizza Pasta. Photo credit: Baking Beauty.

This pizza pasta is loaded with spicy pepperoni and melted, gooey cheese, creating all the flavors of a classic pizza in every bite. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, with its comforting, cheesy goodness and savory pepperoni notes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal, it’s always a hit no matter the occasion. Every forkful is packed with flavor, making it easy to see why this recipe has become such a favorite in our household.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pasta

BBQ Pork Tenderloin

BBQ Pork Tenderloin. Photo credit: Baking Beauty.

This BBQ Pork Tenderloin is packed with a perfect balance of sweet and smoky flavors, made using just a few simple ingredients. Whether you choose to cook it on the grill or in the oven, it turns out incredibly juicy and tender every time. The outside gets beautifully caramelized while the inside stays moist and flavorful, making it a hit for any dinner. It’s easy to prepare but delivers a taste that feels special enough for gatherings or a cozy weeknight meal. You’ll love how the flavors come together with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Pork Tenderloin

Honey Walnut Shrimp

Honey Walnut Shrimp. Photo credit: Baking Beauty.

Honey Walnut Shrimp is a delicious blend of crispy, golden shrimp coated in a sweet and savory sauce that’s packed with flavor. Topped with crunchy candied walnuts, each bite offers the perfect balance of textures and taste. This dish brings the classic takeout favorite right into your kitchen, making it easier than ever to enjoy a restaurant-style meal at home. It’s a simple, satisfying recipe that’s perfect for dinner with family or friends.
Get the Recipe: Honey Walnut Shrimp

Coho Salmon Fillets with Crispy Bagel Seasoning

2 pieces of salmon with seasoning on a bed of tzatziki and served with vegetables and garnished with dill.
Coho Salmon Fillets with Crispy Bagel Seasoning. Photo credit: The Weekday Pescatarian.

This Coho salmon recipe is a simple way to bring bold flavor and a satisfying crunch to your dinner table. The bagel seasoning crust creates a crispy, savory exterior that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant, yet it requires only four easy-to-find ingredients. No fancy tools or complicated techniques are needed—just a reliable method honed from cooking hundreds of salmon fillets. Perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks, this recipe makes preparing a delicious, impressive meal feel effortless. In no time, you’ll have a dish that’s flavorful, crispy, and guaranteed to impress anyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Coho Salmon Fillets with Crispy Bagel Seasoning

Mustard Pork Chops (Juicy, Tender, and Ready in 45 Minutes!)

Mustard Pork Chops (Juicy, Tender, and Ready in 45 Minutes!). Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

These Mustard Pork Chops are a flavorful and budget-friendly dinner option the whole family will love. The pork chops are baked to perfection with a tangy mustard crust that adds a zesty kick to every bite. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal ingredients but delivering maximum taste. Serve it with your favorite sides for a hearty, satisfying meal that doesn’t break the bank. You’ll love how simple it is to make a dish that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Mustard Pork Chops (Juicy, Tender, and Ready in 45 Minutes!)

One-Pan Balsamic Chicken and Veggies

Balsamic chicken and vegetables on sheet pan lined with foil.
One-Pan Balsamic Chicken and Veggies. Photo credit: I Heart Naptime.

This sheet pan dinner is both healthy and packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken and a colorful mix of vegetables are coated in a rich, savory balsamic glaze that brings everything together. The best part is how easy it is to prepare—all the ingredients go on one pan, which means minimal cleanup afterward. It’s also incredibly flexible, so you can swap in whatever vegetables you have in your fridge for a quick, satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. With simple ingredients and big flavor, this dish hits the sweet spot between convenience and taste.
Get the Recipe: One-Pan Balsamic Chicken and Veggies

Pesto Chicken Tortellini

A cast iron skillet with creamy, cheesy tortellini pasta and chicken tenderloin in a pesto sauce.
Pesto Chicken Tortellini. Photo credit: The Peasant's Daughter.

Pesto Chicken Tortellini is a hearty, one-pot meal that brings together tender, juicy chicken and soft, cheesy tortellini in a creamy, garlicky pesto sauce. Each bite is packed with flavor, making it a dish the whole family will enjoy. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect choice for busy weeknights when you want something warm, satisfying, and effortless to prepare. The combination of fresh herbs, rich sauce, and comforting pasta makes it a dinner that feels special without any extra fuss.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Chicken Tortellini

Cheesy Pasta Bake with Bacon

Pasta Casserole in baking dish.
Cheesy Pasta Bake with Bacon. Photo credit: Bowl Me Over.

This Cheesy Pasta Bake is a true crowd-pleaser that never fails to bring everyone to the table. Tender pasta is smothered in a creamy, ranch-seasoned sauce and finished with a golden, gooey layer of melted cheese that stretches with every serving. It’s the kind of comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a busy weeknight. Easy to prepare yet full of flavor, it’s perfect for feeding the whole family without a fuss. Once it’s out of the oven, you can bet everyone will be coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds!
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Pasta Bake with Bacon

Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken tikka masala made in the slow cooker served over rice and topped with extra sauce, sour cream and cilantro.
Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala. Photo credit: 100 Days of Real Food.

This Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala brings the bold and aromatic flavors of an authentic Indian meal right to your kitchen. Inspired by a favorite restaurant in Charlotte, this recipe combines a rich, creamy sauce with tender, slow-cooked chicken, creating a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. Served over brown rice, it makes for a simple yet impressive dinner any night of the week. After plenty of testing and tweaks, this version closely matches the Tikka Masala introduced by Vani at the local restaurant, capturing the same depth of flavor and perfectly balanced spices. With the slow cooker doing most of the work, the chicken turns out incredibly juicy, and the sauce is infused with warmth and richness in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Baked Stuffed Pork Chops

Green beans with pine nuts on a plate.
Baked Stuffed Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Savor the rich taste of juicy pork chops generously stuffed with tender mushrooms and melted cheese, creating a comforting and hearty meal. This easy baked recipe comes together with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a casual dinner at home. The combination of savory pork and creamy, cheesy filling ensures every bite is full of flavor. It’s a low-carb option that doesn’t compromise on taste, letting you enjoy a satisfying dinner without the extra fuss. Simple, delicious, and packed with flavor, this dish is sure to become a go-to in your recipe rotation.
Get the Recipe: Baked Stuffed Pork Chops

Shrimp Stir Fry

Shrimp Stir Fry. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Looking for a simple and delicious weeknight dinner that comes together in no time? This shrimp stir-fry is full of vibrant flavors and protein, making it both satisfying and nutritious. The precooked shrimp makes preparation quick, while the mix of colorful vegetables adds crunch and freshness to every bite. You can easily swap in your favorite veggies or whatever you have on hand, making it a versatile meal for any night. Serve it over rice or noodles, and you’ve got a dinner that’s both comforting and packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Stir Fry

Smoked Pork Tenderloin

Plated serving of pork for dinner.
Smoked Pork Tenderloin. Photo credit: The Feathered Nester.

Smoked pork tenderloin delivers a wonderful combination of flavors, with a savory, seasoned crust and tender, juicy meat that practically melts in your mouth. This guide breaks down the smoking process step by step, showing that it’s simpler than most people think. By using the right techniques, anyone can achieve perfectly moist and flavorful pork that impresses at any meal. With a little practice, this recipe can easily become a favorite for weeknight dinners or special gatherings alike. It’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table every time.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Pork Tenderloin

Smoked Fish Crostini with Fresh Herb Salad

Smoked fish crostini with sliced baguette.
Smoked Fish Crostini with Fresh Herb Salad. Photo credit: Peak To Plate.

A crispy, golden sourdough baguette is topped with smooth, airy whipped ricotta, creating a rich and creamy foundation for this appetizer. On top, a bright and tangy herb salad adds freshness, while thin slices of delicately smoked fish bring a subtle smoky flavor that complements every bite. The combination of textures and flavors—crunchy, creamy, fresh, and savory—makes this dish both sophisticated and approachable. Perfect for a casual gathering or an elegant dinner, it highlights the beauty of simple, high-quality ingredients in a way that feels effortless yet impressive. This appetizer is sure to catch the
Get the Recipe: Smoked Fish Crostini with Fresh Herb Salad

Curry Chicken

Bread with sesame seeds on a cutting board.
Curry Chicken. Photo credit: Trina Krug.

This keto-friendly curry puts a fresh spin on a classic favorite, bringing bold flavors to your plate without any fuss. With just 10 minutes of prep and about half an hour of cooking, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The dish is rich, aromatic, and packed with flavor, making every bite comforting and hearty. It’s also versatile—great for meal prep or storing in the freezer for up to three months, so you can enjoy it anytime with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or the whole family, this curry hits the perfect balance of convenience and taste.
Get the Recipe: Curry Chicken

Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast

Top view of Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast.
Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast. Photo credit: Two Kids And A Coupon.

The Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast from Two Kids and a Coupon is a hearty and flavorful meal that brings together a juicy beef roast, zesty ranch seasoning, savory au jus gravy mix, and tangy pepperoncini peppers. Cooking it in the Instant Pot makes the beef incredibly tender and allows the flavors to meld beautifully, all in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional methods. This recipe is straightforward and fuss-free, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want a comforting home-cooked dinner without the long wait. The combination of spices and peppers creates a rich, savory sauce that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread. It’s the kind of dish that warms the whole kitchen and leaves everyone asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast

Ground Beef and Cabbage

Ground Beef and Cabbage in a white bowl.
Ground Beef and Cabbage. Photo credit: The Yummy Bowl.

This Ground Beef and Cabbage dish is a hearty, flavorful meal that’s both simple to make and easy on the budget. It’s naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a perfect choice for anyone with dietary restrictions. Instead of relying on traditional Asian stir-fry sauces, this recipe uses a homemade mix of everyday ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, onion, and ginger, giving it rich flavor without any fuss. Everything cooks together in one pan, which makes cleanup a breeze and the cooking process quick and straightforward. It’s a wholesome, satisfying dinner that the whole family can enjoy any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Cabbage

Gnocchi alla Sorrentina

Gnocchi alla Sorrentina in a round red pan with plate in the background.
Gnocchi alla Sorrentina. Photo credit: Marcellina in Cucina.

Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is a warm, comforting dish that brings a taste of Italy straight to your table. Each soft, pillowy gnocchi is coated in a vibrant, flavorful tomato sauce, then layered with gooey, melted cheese that becomes perfectly golden in the oven. Every bite is a delightful mix of tender pasta, tangy sauce, and rich, creamy cheese that feels like a hug on a plate. It’s a dish that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends, and one that’s sure to have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it’s a meal that leaves a lasting impression.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi alla Sorrentina

Easy Garlic Broiled Chicken Thighs

Easy Garlic Broiled Chicken Thighs with parsley in a white baking dish with a spatula.
Easy Garlic Broiled Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Juicy, flavorful broiled chicken thighs come together in under 25 minutes, making this a perfect option for a busy weeknight dinner. The bright touch of lemon and aromatic garlic brings each bite to life, giving the chicken a fresh and savory flavor. This low-carb recipe is simple to prepare, yet so satisfying that everyone at the table will want seconds. Even picky eaters will be drawn to the tender, golden-browned thighs, making mealtime a little easier and a lot more delicious.
Get the Recipe: Easy Garlic Broiled Chicken Thighs

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