15 Effortless Dinners For Lazy Nights

Had a long day and can’t bear the thought of cooking? No worries! Here’s a lineup of 15 dinners so easy they practically make themselves. These are fantastic choices for those nights when all you want to do is put your feet up and binge-watch your favorite shows. With these options, the most effort you’ll exert is lifting a fork.

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

Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

A white bowl of rigatoni pasta with creamy sauce, garnished with cheese and green herbs, is placed on a wooden surface. A hand is holding a fork with a piece of pasta.
Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

When you’re too tired to cook but still want something fancy, this is your go-to. Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka brings restaurant quality to your kitchen without the fuss. It’s quick to make and feels like a treat, perfect for those nights when you want to impress without the stress. You’ll feel like a pro chef with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

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 Six.

Want something light and refreshing that doesn’t skimp on flavor? Give Chinese Chicken Salad a try. It’s easy to throw together and packs a punch in the taste department. You’ll feel like you’re eating out, but it’s all homemade goodness.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Asparagus & Ricotta Quiche

Asparagus & Ricotta Quiche served on a pie dish.
Asparagus & Ricotta Quiche. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Need a meal that works for breakfast, lunch, or dinner? Asparagus & Ricotta Quiche has got you covered. It’s simple to put together and looks impressive. You’ll have a versatile dish that’s ideal for any time of day, with minimal effort required.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus & Ricotta Quiche

Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes

Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Croquettes on a white plate with tomatoes and broccoli.
Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Sometimes you want something that looks fancy but doesn’t take forever to make. That’s where Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes come in. They’re easier than they sound and pack a lot of flavor. You’ll feel like you’re eating a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes

Pizza Pasta Salad

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

Can’t decide between pizza or pasta? Why not have both? Pizza Pasta Salad combines two favorites into one easy dish. It’s ideal for when you want something different but don’t want to put in too much effort. You’ll get all the flavors you love in one bowl.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pasta Salad

Leftover Steak Quesadilla

A hand holding wedges of a quesadilla.
Leftover Steak Quesadilla. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Got some leftover steak? Don’t let it go to waste. Transform it into a mouthwatering meal with Leftover Steak Quesadilla. It’s a great way to use up what’s in your fridge and still enjoy a fulfilling dinner. Plus, it’s so easy to make, you’ll wonder why you didn’t think of it sooner.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Quesadilla

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 Six.

Sometimes you want comfort food without the hassle. That’s where Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken comes in handy. It’s a restaurant favorite that’s surprisingly simple to make at home. You’ll get all the delicious flavor with none of the fuss. Plus, this is a wonderful choice for a cozy night in.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Steak & Pasta Salad

A black bowl filled with a pasta salad containing farfalle, steak slices, radishes, cherry tomatoes, lettuce, nuts, and crumbled blue cheese, garnished with parsley, on a wooden board next to a spoon.
Steak & Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Looking for a meal that’s filling but not too heavy? Steak & Pasta Salad hits the spot. It’s a great way to use up leftover steak or quickly cook some fresh. You get protein, carbs, and veggies all in one dish, making it a complete meal with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Pasta Salad

Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef

A plate of cooked ground beef mixed with diced vegetables and garnished with lime wedges and chopped herbs. A red striped cloth is placed beside the plate.
Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Need a versatile dish that can be used in multiple ways? Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef is your answer. It’s simple to prepare and can be used in tacos, burritos, or even on its own. You’ll have a flavorful meal on the table in no time, and maybe even leftovers for tomorrow.
Get the Recipe: Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef

Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

A plate of Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp served on a white rectangular dish.
Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Craving takeout but don’t want to leave the house? Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp lets you enjoy your favorite dish without the wait or the cost. It’s surprisingly easy to make at home and tastes just like the real thing. You’ll fulfill your craving and impress yourself with your cooking skills.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

Diner Style Salisbury Steak

A plate of Salisbury steak with gravy on mashed potatoes, and a side of peas on a white square dish. The meal is set on a white wooden table beside silver cutlery and a floral napkin.
Diner Style Salisbury Steak. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Feeling nostalgic for classic comfort food? Diner Style Salisbury Steak brings back those memories without the need for a time machine. It’s hearty, fulfilling, and easier to make than you might think. You’ll feel like you’re at your favorite diner, but in the comfort of your own home.
Get the Recipe: Diner Style Salisbury Steak

Salmon Pasta Salad

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

Need a light yet filling meal that’s perfect for warmer days? Salmon Pasta Salad fits the bill. It’s easy to throw together and can be served cold, making it great for meal prep. You’ll get your protein and carbs in one dish, with minimal cooking required.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Salad

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.

Craving something with big flavor but don’t want to spend hours cooking? Korean Galbi Ribs deliver on taste without the time commitment. They’re easier to prepare than you might think and pack a flavor punch. You’ll feel like you’re eating at a Korean BBQ joint without leaving your kitchen.
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 Six.

Looking for something a bit different that’s still easy to make? Try this comforting dish of Wild Rice Salad. It’s versatile, can be served warm or cold, and makes great leftovers. You’ll have a nutritious meal that’s as simple to make as it is delicious.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Salad

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 Six.

Want dinner to cook itself while you relax? Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs are the answer that you are looking for. Just set it and forget it the whole day, and come back to a delicious meal. You’ll have a comforting dinner with barely any effort on your part.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

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