19 Foolproof Dinners That Won’t Have You Calling For Takeout

Before you surrender to the call of delivery, consider these 19 foolproof dinner ideas that are just as perfect as your favorite restaurant—if not more. These meals are so easy to whip up that you might find yourself wondering why you ever bothered with takeout in the first place. You’ll not only save time and money, but you’ll also get the satisfaction of a home-cooked meal that hits all the right notes.

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 Six.

Chicken Paprikash

Three pieces of chicken smothered in a creamy, orange-hued sauce topped with chopped herbs, served on a white rectangular plate.
Chicken Paprikash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When the week winds down, and you’re looking for a comforting meal, Chicken Paprikash is a reliable choice. This dish is easy to prepare, ensuring a stress-free cooking experience. It blends simplicity with flavor, creating a homestyle meal that’ll make you forget about takeout menus. Ideal for a quiet dinner at home, it’s a meal that promises relaxation and satisfaction.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash

Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter

A grilled steak with cowboy butter on a white plate.
Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter transforms your kitchen into a steakhouse. This meal combines the heartiness of well-cooked steaks with the added flair of cowboy butter, offering a bold flavor without complexity. It’s quick enough to prepare that you won’t miss any downtime after a busy day. Perfect for an impromptu weekend meal or a special occasion at home.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Air Fryer chicken cordon bleu on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re trying to reduce kitchen mess and simplify your cooking process, Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu is a superb choice. This dish is straightforward and cooks with little oversight. It’s designed to provide a fulfilling meal without the fuss of extensive prep or clean-up. Enjoy a dinner that’s both neat and fulfilling, ideal for busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Mediterranean Salmon

A plate of Greek salmon with grape tomatoes and olives.
Mediterranean Salmon. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

For a meal that hints at seaside dining, try Mediterranean Salmon. This dish is uncomplicated yet packs a punch of flavor that transports you to the Mediterranean coast. It’s quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for any day of the week. Perfect for those who love a meal that’s both healthful and easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Salmon

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.

Bring a touch of international cuisine to your dining table with Korean Galbi Ribs. This dish offers a fantastic way to enjoy a different culture’s flavors without leaving your home. It’s robust enough to be a centerpiece at your next gathering. Simple to prepare, these ribs promise a social meal that won’t chain you to the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Korean Galbi Ribs

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 Six.

If you crave the comfort of classic diner fare, Diner Style Salisbury Steak is a go-to recipe. This meal brings the nostalgic feel of a diner into your home with minimal effort. It’s a straightforward dish that fills the room with inviting aromas, making it a favorite for family dinners. Enjoy a cozy, informal meal any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Diner Style Salisbury Steak

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken served on a white plate.
Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken is ideal when you want a dish that you can set and forget. This meal cooks slowly, melding flavors that are deep and hearty. It’s perfect for days when you’re busy with other tasks but still want a homemade dinner. Gather the family around the table for a fulfilling meal that keeps preparation to a minimum.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe

A bowl of skillet gnocchi with sausage and broccoli rabe.
Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re craving a dish that brings together distinct flavors and textures, look no further than Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe. This meal offers a perfect balance of hearty and wholesome, ideal for a family dinner or a relaxed evening meal. It’s a comforting choice for anyone looking for a reliable dinner option without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe

Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

A bowl of olive garden creamy shrimp alfredo pasta served in a black bowl with a spoon.
Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

When the craving for a restaurant-style meal strikes, why not whip up Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo at home? This dish replicates the creamy, rich flavors you enjoy dining out but without the need to leave your house. It’s perfect for impressing guests with your culinary skills. Plus, it’s a cost-effective way to enjoy a luxurious meal any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

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 Six.

Transform your leftovers into a meal that feels entirely new with Leftover Steak Soft Tacos. This recipe is an excellent way to use up steak from a previous meal. It’s casual enough for a family night but also packs a punch for a gathering with friends. Quick to assemble and bursting with flavor, it’s a smart pick for a hassle-free dinner.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Soft Tacos

Chicken Divan

A fork is lifting a portion of Chicken Divan from one of the bowls.
Chicken Divan. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Chicken Divan is a classic dish that’s been a favorite in many households for its comforting qualities. It’s a great option when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish is often chosen for both its simplicity and its ability to please a crowd. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or something to bring to a potluck, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Divan

Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Shrimp skewers on a white plate with lemon wedges.
Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Bring the flavors of the Mediterranean to your dining table with Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also light and healthful, making it an excellent choice for a nutritious dinner. It’s ideal for those evenings when you want a meal that feels special without any complicated preparation. This recipe promises a refreshing change from your usual dinner routine.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Ground Beef Fried Rice

Ground Beef Fried Rice. Photo credit: Dinner By Six.
Ground Beef Fried Rice. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

For a quick and easy meal that is as nutritious as it is delicious, try Ground Beef Fried Rice. This dish is a fantastic way to incorporate different flavors into your weekly meal rotation. It’s straightforward, filling, and versatile, making it a staple for busy weeknights. You can feel good about serving this to your family, knowing it’s packed with goodness and ready in no time.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Fried Rice

Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches

Greek Meatball Pita Sandwich served on a white rectangular plate.
Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Ditch the usual sandwiches and dive into the flavors of Greece with Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches. This option is terrific for anyone looking for a meal that’s both fulfilling and easy to make. It combines familiar ingredients in a novel way, offering a twist on traditional Greek flavors that are robust and inviting. Perfect for a lunch break at home or a quick dinner, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches

Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce

A bowl of pasta with cherry tomato sauce, cherry tomatoes, and garlic.
Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Imagine turning a simple evening into a special one with Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce. This dish is a game-changer for those nights when simplicity and flavor need to meet. It’s a go-to for busy evenings, ensuring a delicious dinner is always within reach. With no need for takeout, this dish showcases how easy gourmet can be at home.
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce

Texas BLT

Texas BLT on a black slate plate.
Texas BLT. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Upgrade your lunchtime with the iconic Texas BLT. It’s the classic you love with a twist, proving that making an impressive sandwich at home is not only possible but easy. Perfect for a quick meal, this sandwich ensures that a satisfying lunch is just minutes away. Say goodbye to bland lunches and hello to flavors that pack a punch.
Get the Recipe: Texas BLT

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 Six.

Bringing together the best of both worlds, Easy Salmon Pasta Salad is your answer to a quick yet fulfilling meal. Ideal for those looking for something light yet hearty, it’s a dish that won’t disappoint. Great for gatherings or a simple family dinner, it’s versatile and ready in no time. This recipe promises a no-fuss meal that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Easy Salmon Pasta Salad

Baja Fish Tacos

Baja fish tacos on a white plate.
Baja Fish Tacos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Dig into the fresh and exciting flavors of Baja Fish Tacos tonight. This recipe captures the essence of beachside dining without ever leaving your home. A foolproof way to inject some excitement into your dinner routine, these tacos are as fun to make as they are to eat. Forget the hassle of takeout and create a mini vacation right in your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Baja Fish Tacos

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 Six.

For those craving the indulgence of fast food but prefer homemade, Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots delivers. This dish brings the guilty pleasure of loaded tots into your kitchen with a gourmet twist. It’s the perfect way to treat yourself without stepping outside. Let this be your new favorite way to enjoy the flavors of a beloved pizza chain creation.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

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