I Planned A Week Of Non-Chicken Dinners—19 Meals That Worked

ByMandy

This week, chicken took a break and so did I. I planned 19 non-chicken dinners and somehow everything worked out just fine. No emergency takeout runs, no side-eyes at the table, and no need to apologize to poultry. Highly recommend giving your usual dinner lineup a shake.

A slice of lasagna with beef, mushrooms, cheese, and vegetables being lifted from a baking dish.
Chili Relleno Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Beef Bourguignon

Close-up of a savory beef stew with chunks of beef, bacon, onion, and vegetables in a rich, glossy sauce, served over creamy mashed potatoes.
Beef Bourguignon. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

This dish is a slow-cooked, hearty meal that’s perfect when you’re looking to fill up without much effort. It’s a great option for days when you need something filling, but also easy to make. Beef Bourguignon is one of those meals you can always rely on.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bourguignon

Lamb Chops

Grilled lamb chops garnished with fresh rosemary sprigs.
Lamb Chops. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Lamb Chops are a great way to break away from the usual dinner routine. Their savory profile works well with various sides and offers something new for your dinner table. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that doesn’t take much to enjoy. This meal offers a great balance of ease and elegance.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Chops

Beef Chili

Two bowls of chili with kidney beans, meat, tortilla chips, shredded cheese, and cilantro. A black spoon in one bowl. Additional chili flakes in a small dish nearby.
Beef Chili. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Looking for a hearty, filling meal that sticks with you? Beef Chili is a solid option that delivers on both flavor and convenience. The rich texture and deep flavor make it the perfect choice for busy nights. It’s one of those recipes you’ll be happy to make ahead and enjoy for a few days.
Get the Recipe: Beef Chili

Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

A bowl of mixed salad with grilled shrimp, avocado, cherry tomatoes, lettuce, feta cheese, and a creamy dressing.
Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing is a fresh, flavorful choice when you’re looking for something light but still hearty. The shrimp brings a nice kick, while the creamy avocado dressing balances everything perfectly. It’s an easy-to-make dish that packs a lot of flavor into every bite.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

Hamburger Casserole

A close-up of a spoon lifting a portion of hamburger casserole, showcasing baked macaroni and cheese layered with ground meat and topped with lettuce and creamy sauce.
Hamburger Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

If you love casseroles, Hamburger Casserole will quickly become a go-to. It combines simple ingredients into a filling and comforting meal. This dish is both easy to make and satisfying to eat. Perfect for when you need something filling, without the fuss of complicated prep.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Casserole

Easy Chow Mein

A close-up view of a plate of chow mein stir-fried noodles with vegetables and black sesame seeds, with chopsticks visibly picking up a portion.
Easy Chow Mein. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Easy Chow Mein is a quick and simple dish that brings the taste of takeout right to your kitchen. It’s customizable and packed with flavors that everyone will enjoy. The best part? It’s a no-fuss, easy-to-make recipe that comes together in no time. This is a great option for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chow Mein

Firecracker Meatballs

A plate of meatballs topped with sauce, sesame seeds, and chopped green onions on a bed of white rice.
Firecracker Meatballs. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

These meatballs are the perfect way to add a little heat to your dinner. Firecracker Meatballs bring bold flavors that make any meal feel special. They’re simple to make but pack a punch with their spice. If you’re looking for something with a bit of a kick, this is the meal for you.
Get the Recipe: Firecracker Meatballs

Asian Style Pork Chops

Close-up of sliced grilled pork belly garnished with sesame seeds and green chili, served on a bed of kale.
Asian Style Pork Chops. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Looking for a meal that’s both easy and flavorful? Asian Style Pork Chops are your answer. The marinade gives the pork a nice balance of savory and sweet, making it a standout dish. It’s simple to make, yet feels like something a bit special.
Get the Recipe: Asian Style Pork Chops

Big Mac Crunchwrap

Close-up of a stack of folded tortillas filled with beef, melted cheese, lettuce, and onions on a white plate.
Big Mac Crunchwrap. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Big Mac Crunchwrap is a fun twist on the classic fast food favorite. It brings together familiar flavors in a way that’s fun and easy to eat. The layers of textures make every bite exciting. A perfect choice when you want something quick but packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Crunchwrap

Copycat Honey Baked Ham

Close-up of seasoned and roasted meat with crispy edges.
Copycat Honey Baked Ham. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

If you’re craving something sweet and savory, Copycat Honey Baked Ham is a great choice. The glaze gives the ham a nice, sticky finish, making it a standout on any plate. It’s perfect for when you want a dish that feels a bit fancy without too much effort. You’ll enjoy the simplicity and flavor every time.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Honey Baked Ham

Beef Enchilada Casserole

Close-up of a cheesy dish with melted cheese, beef, beans, and scattered cilantro leaves. Red onion slices are visible in the foreground.
Beef Enchilada Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Beef Enchilada Casserole is a great way to get the flavors of enchiladas without the hassle. Layers of savory beef and cheese come together to create a fulfilling meal. It’s simple to prepare and packs plenty of flavor with every bite. A solid choice when you want a comforting meal without a lot of work.
Get the Recipe: Beef Enchilada Casserole

Big Mac Sloppy Joe

Two sesame seed burgers with cheese, shredded lettuce, ground meat, and pickles, stacked on a plate.
Big Mac Sloppy Joe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you love the classic Big Mac, you’ll enjoy Big Mac Sloppy Joe. It brings the same combo of tangy, savory goodness but with a twist. Perfect for when you’re craving something familiar but with a little extra bite. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy a fun, hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Sloppy Joe

Beef Stew

A close-up of a beef stew with green peas and chopped parsley, showing a spoon partially submerged in the rich, red sauce.
Beef Stew. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you need something filling, Beef Stew is always a good choice. It’s rich, comforting, and sure to keep you full for hours. Each bite brings a mix of tender beef and hearty vegetables. It’s one of those meals that can easily become a go-to favorite.
Get the Recipe: Beef Stew

Homemade Lasagna

Close-up of a delicious slice of lasagna, showcasing layers of pasta, ground meat, tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and garnished with chopped basil.
Homemade Lasagna. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you’re craving layers of flavor, Homemade Lasagna is the answer. It’s filling, cheesy, and packed with all the hearty goodness you want from a lasagna. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead, making meal planning a breeze. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, it works.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna

Black Bean Burger

A black bean burger in a burger bap with relish oozing out over it.
Black Bean Burger. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For those looking for a hearty meatless option, Black Bean Burger offers just the right balance of texture and flavor. It’s a great way to get a plant-based meal without sacrificing a fulfilling bite. It’s simple to make, but you won’t miss the meat. Perfect for lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Black Bean Burger

Easy Meatloaf Recipe

A close-up of a savory meatloaf slice topped with a glossy sauce. The hearty meatloaf reveals visible chunks of vegetables like carrots and celery.
Easy Meatloaf Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Easy Meatloaf Recipe is the kind of meal that just feels like home. It’s a one-pan wonder that delivers a savory experience in every slice. Quick, straightforward, and always reliable, it’s the answer for when you need a filling meal without a lot of hassle. You can’t go wrong with this one.
Get the Recipe: Easy Meatloaf Recipe

Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes

A close-up image of honey chipotle seasoned roasted potatoes garnished with parsley, served alongside grilled steak and lettuce.
Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

This dish gives you a perfect balance of sweet and heat. The steak is cooked just right, and the potatoes soak up all the delicious flavors. Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes is a meal that satisfies both your protein and carb cravings in one shot. Quick to make and hard to resist.
Get the Recipe: Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes

Gnocchi

A bowl of gnocchi topped with grated cheese, fresh basil, and black pepper.
Gnocchi. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you want something different, Gnocchi brings a soft, pillowy texture that pairs with just about anything. It’s perfect for when you want comfort food without going overboard. Whether tossed in sauce or served with a side, it’s simple but always hits the spot. It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi

Chili Relleno Casserole

A slice of lasagna with beef, mushrooms, cheese, and vegetables being lifted from a baking dish.
Chili Relleno Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Chili Relleno Casserole offers a delicious twist on a traditional favorite. It’s cheesy, a little spicy, and makes a great main dish or side. The layers of flavor and texture come together effortlessly for a filling meal. It’s perfect for those times when you want something a little different.
Get the Recipe: Chili Relleno Casserole

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