No Time for a Five-Course Meal? Try These 21 Weeknight Recipes

No one has the energy for a five-course feast on a weeknight, but that doesn’t mean dinner can’t be great. These 21 recipes are quick, easy, and perfect for busy evenings. No more staring at the fridge wondering what to throw together at the last minute. Dinner can be done without breaking a sweat—or resorting to takeout.

Three Cheese Manicotti

If you’re aiming for comfort but need it quick, this dish won’t disappoint. Imagine biting into creamy, cheesy goodness that feels like a hug on a busy weeknight. Three Cheese Manicotti brings that to the table, no pun intended. It’s a simple twist on pasta that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Three Cheese Manicotti

Hamburger Casserole

Sometimes, you just need something hearty. That’s where a quick, beefy dish comes into play. Hamburger Casserole is the answer to your weeknight dinner dilemma. It combines the familiar flavors everyone loves with the ease of a one-dish bake.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Casserole

Baked Rice

Who knew that simplicity could taste so good? Baked Rice is a testament to that. It’s a side dish that quietly steals the show with its fluffy texture and versatility. Forget about standing over the stove stirring; this recipe is all about ease. It’s the perfect companion to any main dish, making your weeknight dinner complete without fuss.
Get the Recipe: Baked Rice

Mac and Cheese

Craving something cheesy without spending hours in the kitchen? Look no further. Mac and Cheese is a classic that never fails to please. It’s creamy, it’s comforting, and best of all, it’s quick. This dish is the perfect way to bring a smile to everyone’s face on a busy night. Plus, it’s customizable for those picky eaters.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos

There are nights when you just need a bit of spice and everything nice. Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos are here to save your evening. It’s a lively dish that packs flavors and textures into every bite. Perfect for a casual dinner or even game night, it’s fuss-free and oh-so-fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos

Corn Casserole

Talk about comfort in a dish. Corn Casserole is the way to go when you want something sweet and savory. It’s ridiculously easy to make and pairs well with just about anything. When you’re strapped for time but still want to serve something that tastes like home, this casserole has got your back.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole

Beef Pot Pie

When it’s chilly outside or you’re just in the mood for something that feels like a warm blanket, Beef Pot Pie does the trick. This dish is a hearty option that combines succulent beef and a flaky crust. It’s like bringing a bit of coziness to your weeknight dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Beef Pot Pie

Scalloped Potatoes

Need a side dish that’s both easy and impressive? Scalloped Potatoes are your best bet. They’re creamy, they’re comforting, and they go with just about everything. This recipe is a lifesaver for when you want to add a bit of elegance to your weeknight dinner without any extra hassle.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes

Spaghetti Casserole

If spaghetti night needs a little revamp, this is the way to do it. Spaghetti Casserole gives you all the flavors you love in a traditional spaghetti but baked to perfection. It’s a fun twist that’s as wonderful to eat as it is easy to make. A practical yet tasty solution to dinnertime.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Casserole

Breakfast Bagel Sliders

Who says you can’t have breakfast for dinner? Breakfast Bagel Sliders are perfect for shaking up your weeknight routine. They’re quick, customizable, and absolutely delicious. It’s a joyous little sandwich that brings a touch of morning cheer to your evening. Great for a fast meal and even better for fulfilling those breakfast.
Get the Recipe: Breakfast Bagel Sliders

Baked Potato

Sometimes, the simplest options are the most fulfilling. A Baked Potato can be just that. It’s a blank canvas for all your favorite toppings, making it a versatile choice for any dinner situation. This is the go-to solution when you’re short on time but still want something that feels wholesomely homemade.
Get the Recipe: Baked Potato

Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip

For those nights when you want to kick back and indulge, Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip is your best friend. It’s a creamy, dreamy dip that serves as the ultimate comfort food. Quick to prepare, it’s a hit for any casual get-together or a laid-back family meal. Just pair it with your chips or veggies and dig into deliciousness.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip

Spaghetti Marinara

In the mood for Italian but not the wait? Spaghetti Marinara is here for you. This dish is a simple pleasure, bringing homecooked Italian goodness directly to your table in no time. It’s the sort of meal that feels like you’ve been cooking all day, but really, it’s quick and easy. Get ready for a midweek feast that’s all about flavor without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Marinara

Easy Cornbread Casserole

When you need a side that everyone will love, Easy Cornbread Casserole is a foolproof option. It has the sweetness and softness that makes cornbread so irresistible, plus the ease of a casserole. This is the dish to choose when you’re craving something comforting but don’t have a lot of time.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cornbread Casserole

Pinwheel Sandwiches

Looking for a fun and easy dinner option? Pinwheel Sandwiches are the answer. They’re as simple to make as they are to eat. Perfect for a light meal or as part of a larger spread, these little bites are versatile and universally liked. Whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining guests, they make your evening a little less hectic.
Get the Recipe: Pinwheel Sandwiches

Easy Burrito

Craving Mexican but in a rush? Easy Burrito is your quick fix. It wraps all the savory goodness you’re longing for into a convenient package. Ideal for a no-fuss dinner, it’s a fulfilling way to conclude a busy day. Imagine biting into a warm, flavorful burrito without spending all evening in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Easy Burrito

Hawaiian Baked Beans

Bring a little tropical flair to your dinner with Hawaiian Baked Beans. This dish is a sweet and savory treat that’s unexpectedly easy. It’s the perfect way to spruce up a simple meal without any extra effort. Serve it alongside your main dish, and watch how quickly it disappears. It’s a side that’s sure to impress with minimal fuss.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Baked Beans

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

For a lighter take that still delivers on flavor, Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole stands out. It’s a veggie-filled option that’s both cheesy and comforting. This dish proves that quick weeknight meals don’t have to be bland. It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and tastiness, making it a favorite for anyone looking for a hassle-free veggie option.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Corn Chowder

Craving something warm and filling? Corn Chowder is your answer. It’s a creamy, dreamy soup that comes together in no time. Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a quick comfort food fix. With this recipe, you’re just a pot and a few minutes away from a cozy meal that feels like it simmered all day.
Get the Recipe: Corn Chowder

Egg Bites

For a quick grab-and-go option, Egg Bites are unbeatable. They’re not just for breakfast; they’re perfect for any time of the day. Packed with flavor, they take almost no time to make. They’re the smart choice when you need something nutritious and fulfilling without the wait.
Get the Recipe: Egg Bites

Chicken Alfredo Lasagna

Want the comfort of lasagna without the usual time commitment? Chicken Alfredo Lasagna is the twist you need. It merges the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce with the beloved layers of lasagna. Great for when you’re looking for something a bit more special but still easy. It’s a dish that promises a creamy, comforting treat.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Alfredo Lasagna