19 Dinner Dashes That’ll Leave Your Takeout Guy Unemployed

Tired of seeing the delivery guy more than your friends? These 19 quick and easy dinner recipes are the answer to your weekday woes. Whip up a delicious meal faster than you can say “extra soy sauce,” and enjoy the smug satisfaction of knowing you made it yourself. You’ll be eating so well, your local takeout spot might start sending “we miss you” cards.

Cucumber and Feta salad in a black bowl.
Cucumber Salad with Feta. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Leftover Steak Soft Tacos

Top-down shot of two Leftover Steak Soft Tacos on a slate board.
Leftover Steak Soft Tacos. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Transform last night’s steak into today’s highlight with Leftover Steak Soft Tacos. Quick to whip up, these are a lifesaver for busy weeknights when you need a meal that won’t keep your stomach waiting. Trust that once you give this a try, the speed and ease might just make it your go-to move. No more menus from the taco place down the street; you’ve got this covered.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Soft Tacos

Asparagus & Ricotta Quiche

Asparagus & Ricotta Quiche served on a pie dish.
Asparagus & Ricotta Quiche. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Bringing a bit of elegance to your evening meal is easy with Asparagus & Ricotta Quiche. It’s not only a treat to look at but also packs a punch in the taste department. No need to fret about what to make when you have such a simple yet impressive dish in your arsenal. Who knew you could create a dish at home that rivals the café’s display case?
Get the Recipe: Asparagus & Ricotta Quiche

Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

A white rectangular plate with several meatballs covered in tomato sauce, garnished with chopped basil.
Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

If you’re looking for something to switch up dinner without much fuss, Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs will impress you. Slow and steady wins the race here, giving you more time to relax while dinner practically makes itself. Say goodbye to your delivery guy because this dish brings home-style comfort straight to your kitchen. Juicy meatballs simmered to perfection without the need for constant attention, what’s not to love?
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

Pizza Pasta Salad

A fork with pizza pasta salad in a bowl.
Pizza Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Turn pizza night on its head with the playful and quick Pizza Pasta Salad. It’s a creative dish that’s a hit with kids and adults alike, especially when time is of the essence. Who knew you could get all the flavors of a pizza delivered in a bowl of pasta? Save the delivery guy the trip and whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pasta Salad

Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

A tray of cheddar bacon loaded tater tots, drizzled with Alfredo sauce, with a hand-picking one up.
Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Sometimes, cravings can strike for that distinct fast food flavor, but Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots have you covered. It’s a fun way to recreate a favorite without leaving the house, and trust that you won’t miss the wait for delivery. It combines familiar flavors in a dish that’s easy to pull together. Keep that takeout menu in the drawer; your homemade version just might be the new family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

Korean Galbi Ribs

Two Korean galbi ribs on a black slate plate with red chopsticks placed beside them.
Korean Galbi Ribs. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

If Korean cuisine takes your fancy, then this aromatic Korean Galbi Ribs will not disappoint. They’re full of flavors that you normally go out for, but now you can enjoy them without stepping foot outside. Ideal for a weekend dinner, they bring an international flair right to your dining table. So the next time you think about ordering ribs, remember how fulfilling it can be to make them at home.
Get the Recipe: Korean Galbi Ribs

Wild Rice Salad

Wild rice salad served on a white rectangular plate.
Wild Rice Salad. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

When you’re in the mood for something light yet filling, Wild Rice Salad steps up to the plate. It’s a refreshing change of pace from the usual green salad and just as simple to prepare. There’s no need to call your usual salad spot; show them you’re just as capable at home. Plus, the hearty grains make sure no one’s left hungry and everyone will leave that table fulfilled.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Salad

Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots on parchment paper, topped with Alfredo cheese, green onions, and a drizzle of white sauce, placed on a dark rectangular slate plate.
Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Why settle for a plain side when you can enjoy Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots? These loaded tots dish out serious flavor and might just outdo the original. Quick to assemble and fulfilling to the last bite, they’re a surefire way to keep dinner exciting. Your local takeout spot might miss you, but these tots will have you not missing them.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

Easy Salmon Pasta Salad

A bowl of salmon pasta salad with a creamy dressing, garnished with a sprig of dill.
Easy Salmon Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Mixing it up is a breeze with Easy Salmon Pasta Salad, offering a refreshing twist on dinner. It’s a dish that says “sophisticated” without any of the fuss. Perfect for a light meal or a standout side, this salad does double duty plus the ease of preparation. Watch as it turns a regular evening into a spontaneous seafood fest at your own table.
Get the Recipe: Easy Salmon Pasta Salad

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips on a white plate.
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

With Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips, you’re not just making dinner, you’re bringing a steakhouse experience into your dining room. This imitation of a classic is straightforward to prepare, cutting out the need to wait for a table on a busy night. Ditch the crowds and settle in for a cozy meal that rivals your favorite restaurant. Forget the steakhouse bill; enjoy these beef tips and keep your wallet happy too.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

Cottage Cheese Toast With Blueberries

A plate of cottage cheese toast with blueberries, next to a honey dipper.
Cottage Cheese Toast With Blueberries. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Start your day or cap off your evening with a light and delicious Cottage Cheese Toast With Blueberries. This simple dish strikes a balance between wholesome and indulgent, perfect for when you want a quick bite. It’s a refreshing departure from the usual meals, and it will make you reconsider what you can do with toast. Instead of scrolling through food delivery apps, give this fulfilling combo a try.
Get the Recipe: Cottage Cheese Toast With Blueberries

Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Close-up of a hand holding a fork with a bite of copycat Alice spring chicken.
Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Brighten up your dinner plans with a dose of Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken. Casual dining establishments have nothing on this homemade creation that’s bursting with flavor and light to your stomach. You’ll find it’s uncomplicated to make and even easier to enjoy. So wave goodbye to lines and hello to a relaxed meal at home.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

California Eggs Benedict

Eggs benedict with ham and avocado on an English muffin served on a black plate.
California Eggs Benedict. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Sunday brunch doesn’t have to mean a table wait; whip up some California Eggs Benedict instead. This West Coast twist on a brunch classic is just what you need to shake up your morning routine. Simple yet supremely fulfilling, it’s a real game changer for breakfast enthusiasts. Brunch lines? Thanks to this recipe, you’ll hardly miss them.
Get the Recipe: California Eggs Benedict

Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich

A roast beef sandwich with melted cheese on a hoagie roll, accompanied by crinkle-cut fries and a bowl of brown dipping sauce on the side.
Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Who can resist the temptation of a delicious Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich? It’s the sort of meal that powers you through the week, with flavors that beat the sandwich shop hands down. Plus, whipping up this bistro classic at home spares you the extra cost of going out. Next time the craving hits, skip the line and serve up these sandwiches from your own kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich

Chinese Chicken Salad

A bowl of Chinese chicken salad with shredded chicken, snap peas, carrots, and peppers, accompanied by a bottle of dressing on the side.
Chinese Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Forget about the plastic containers and predictable deliveries; Chinese Chicken Salad is a homemade answer to your cravings. This dish is a cinch to make and offers a fresher take than what you usually get in a to-go box. You might find it tastes even better when you’re not eating it with disposable utensils. So swap that takeout menu for a fun and fresh dining experience right at home.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Diner Style Salisbury Steak

A white plate with Salisbury steak topped with mushroom gravy on mashed potatoes, accompanied by a side of green peas.
Diner Style Salisbury Steak. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Rekindle the magic of classic diner fare with Diner Style Salisbury Steak, minus the wait for a booth. This no-nonsense meal is hearty and quick to make, just what you need after a long day. Take a break from takeout and let this dish remind you of simple, good old-fashioned cooking. It’s a straightforward way to bring a smile to everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Diner Style Salisbury Steak

Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

A platter of sheet pan lemon-rosemary chicken with lemon slices, herbs, and garnished with cherry tomatoes.
Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When life gives you lemons, make Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken. This dish is a testament to how uncomplicated good food can be, and it comes together on just one pan. You’ll find the robust flavors are a perfect match for your dinner needs, without any of the drama of dining out. With meals like this, you’ll want to give your delivery person some time off.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

Leftover Steak Quesadilla

A hand holding wedges of a quesadilla.
Leftover Steak Quesadilla. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Put a dent in your takeout habit with this tempting Leftover Steak Quesadilla. It’s the perfect rescue for those steak leftovers, revamping them into a dish that’s both fulfilling and speedy. With this in your meal plan, you’ll wonder why you ever waited at the door for food. Enjoy a homemade feast that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Quesadilla

Cucumber Salad With Feta

Cucumber and Feta salad in a black bowl.
Cucumber Salad With Feta. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Light, refreshing and effortlessly simple to toss together, Cucumber Salad With Feta will soon become a favorite when you’re short on time. Its crispness provides a perfect counter to heavier meals or works great as a standalone dish. You can keep your order on hold because this salad proves that sometimes simple really is best. Say hello to quick, healthy eating without the delivery fee.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad With Feta

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