17 Main Course Magic Tricks For Kitchen Novices

Ever wish dinner could magically appear without all the complicated steps? Well, these 17 main course tricks are like pulling a rabbit out of a hat, except with less fur and more flavor. Perfect for anyone who’s ever mistaken salt for sugar or set off the smoke alarm trying to make toast. Grab these tips and transform your meals from “Oops, what happened here?” to “Wow, who made this?”

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

Chicken Tinga

Chicken tinga in a blue bowl.
Chicken Tinga. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A smoky and tangy dish that’s all about comfort. Chicken Tinga delivers big flavor with minimal effort, making it a win for kitchen newbies. Perfect to throw into a taco or over rice for a quick weeknight dinner. It’s the kind of recipe that impresses without needing any fancy skills.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips on a white plate.
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

If you’re craving restaurant-style food at home, these Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips hit the mark. Tender pieces of beef simmered in a savory sauce make this a great go-to for beginners. You don’t need a lot of ingredients, just let the slow-cooking process do the magic. It’s a meal that’ll have you feeling like a pro in no time.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken

4 ingredient slow cooker chicken on a black platter.
4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Simple yet delicious, this 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken is a hands-off dinner option for those busy nights. Just toss everything in the slow cooker and come back to a hearty, flavorful main course. It’s a no-fuss way to keep dinner stress-free and tasty. This is one of those meals where less really is more.
Get the Recipe: 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken

Mediterranean Chopped Salad

Mediterranean Chopped Salad with crumbled feta cheese, on a yellow plate with flower designs.
Mediterranean Chopped Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Not all meals need to be hot to be filling, and Mediterranean Chopped Salad is proof of that. Fresh ingredients combine in a way that’s hearty enough to stand alone as a main dish. Great for those looking to incorporate more fresh and healthy options into their weekly meals. Best of all, there’s zero cooking required!
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chopped Salad

Chicken Stir Fry

A white plate with chicken and mushrooms in a sauce.
Chicken Stir Fry. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Quick and packed with a variety of textures, Chicken Stir Fry is the perfect solution when you need dinner on the table fast. It’s versatile enough that you can mix and match different veggies based on what you have. A foolproof way to get some greens into your dinner without skimping on taste. This stir fry will become a weeknight staple for sure.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Stir Fry

Mediterranean Salmon

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

For those who want something a bit fancy without the hassle, Mediterranean Salmon is your answer. It’s baked to flaky perfection with flavors that bring out the best in the fish. A dish like this makes even beginners feel like gourmet chefs. Plus, it’s healthy and comes together with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Salmon

Tacos Dorados

Tacos Dorados on a plate.
Tacos Dorados. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Crispy on the outside, flavorful on the inside, Tacos Dorados are all about texture. These golden delights can be filled with whatever you have on hand, making them great for cleaning out the fridge. Simple to prep and fry up, they’re a fun way to make taco night a little different. Great for impressing friends without breaking a sweat in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Tacos Dorados

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.

When you need some comfort food, Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots will hit the spot. It’s like having a Philly cheesesteak in tot form, all gooey and delicious. Toss a few simple ingredients together, bake, and you’ve got a hearty dish that’s sure to please. No fancy techniques here, just classic comfort with a twist.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

Chicken Divan

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

Creamy and cheesy, Chicken Divan is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. With its rich flavor, this dish feels indulgent but is simple enough for any kitchen novice to tackle. It’s a great way to turn everyday chicken into something special without spending hours in the kitchen. A must-try for anyone wanting to master an easy classic.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Divan

Pastitsio

A square piece of pastitsio dish served on a stack of black plates.
Pastitsio. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Think of Pastitsio as lasagna’s Greek cousin. Layers of pasta, sauce, and meat combine to make a hearty meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. This dish requires a bit of layering, but it’s straightforward enough that even beginners can pull it off. The result is a comforting, filling main that’s well worth the effort.
Get the Recipe: Pastitsio

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 last night’s dinner into a new feast with Leftover Steak Soft Tacos. It’s all about taking those steak slices and adding a few simple toppings to create an entirely new meal. Great for busy weeknights when you don’t have time to start from scratch. Plus, soft tacos are endlessly customizable based on what you have in the fridge.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Soft Tacos

Brisket Fried Rice

Brisket fried rice in black serving dish on white background.
Brisket Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Got leftover brisket? Put it to good use with Brisket Fried Rice for a quick and satisfying dinner. Mixing savory brisket with rice, veggies, and a few pantry staples makes for an easy meal. It’s a creative twist on fried rice that’s simple to whip up after a long day. Definitely one to keep in your back pocket for using up leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Brisket Fried Rice

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.

When you want something light yet hearty, Steak & Pasta Salad is a winner. Tossing steak slices with pasta and a few fresh ingredients makes for an easy, flavorful main. Perfect for those who want to mix up their salad game while still getting some protein. It’s an ideal dish for meal prepping or taking on the go.
Get the Recipe: Steak & 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 Six.

If you’re craving some cheesy goodness, Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots are calling your name. These tots are smothered with cheese and bacon, creating a dish that’s sure to please. It’s the kind of comfort food that doesn’t require a lot of fuss or time in the kitchen. Great for a quick dinner or a fun party snack.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

Wild Rice Salad

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

Wild Rice Salad is one of those dishes that proves a main can be both filling and refreshing. The nutty flavor of rice pairs perfectly with fresh ingredients, creating a rewarding dish without a lot of heavy cooking. Great for potlucks, picnics, or just switching up your lunch game. Plus, it’s a straightforward recipe that comes together easily.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Salad

Shipwreck Casserole

Shipwreck Casserole in a black dish with a spoon.
Shipwreck Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Don’t let the name fool you; Shipwreck Casserole is a lifesaver on busy nights. Everything you need for a full meal goes into one dish, making cleanup a breeze. It’s hearty, layered, and packed with simple ingredients that make it perfect for feeding a crowd. Even the most novice cook can handle this one with ease.
Get the Recipe: Shipwreck Casserole

Baja Fish Tacos

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

Looking for a bit of beachy vibes at dinner? Baja Fish Tacos are light, fresh, and loaded with flavor. You don’t need fancy techniques to make these; just a quick fry and a few toppings, and you’re set. It’s a fun way to switch up taco night without getting too complicated.
Get the Recipe: Baja Fish Tacos

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