19 Fast Family Favorites That Don’t Make Lots of Leftovers

Grandma’s dessert recipes bring a nice twist to the table. Each dessert holds a special story that goes back to the good old days. These treats have been shared and loved through generations. It’s like having a piece of family history with every bite. If dessert ever needed a reason to be special, Grandma’s recipes are the perfect example.

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.

Pizza Pasta Salad

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

Combining the best of both worlds, this salad makes for a quick family dinner. Perfect for kids and adults, it packs those familiar flavors everyone loves. No worries about leftovers since it’s super easy to finish in one meal. Ideal for busy weeknights, everyone can enjoy this without feeling weighed down. Fast and simple, the pizza pasta salad is a reliable option. It’s a twist that keeps the meal fresh and exciting.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pasta Salad

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 Six.

Enjoy a break from the usual breakfast with this combination. It’s quick to prepare and doesn’t leave much to store. Perfect for mornings when you’re in a hurry, this toast can be tailored to everyone’s liking. Even the pickiest eaters will enjoy it. With minimal fuss, the cottage cheese toast with blueberries makes mornings easy. No leftovers to stress over, just a fresh start to the day.
Get the Recipe: Cottage Cheese Toast with Blueberries

Leftover Steak Quesadilla

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

Got leftover steak? Transform it into a deliciously quick meal that the whole family will want. This option is perfect after a busy day when you need something fast. The flavors come alive in the leftover steak quesadilla, making it a repeat favorite. Simple and filling, but not too much to store away. Kids and adults will ask for it again and again.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Quesadilla

Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots

A bowl of Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots in a bowl.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

This side dish fits in perfectly with any main course and disappears quickly. Its simplicity is part of what makes it so great. The flavors in the Copycat Cracker Barrel baby carrots are just right and appealing to everyone. Easy to make and serve, perfect for those weeknight dinners. No large piles of leftovers to deal with. A classic that’s always welcomed at the table.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots

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.

For those nights when you crave restaurant-quality, this meal hits the spot. It’s fast to whip up and just right for a family without overdoing it. The copycat Olive Garden shrimp alfredo offers a classic flavor everyone recognizes and loves. Each serving satisfies but won’t overwhelm. An ideal choice for a special yet uncomplicated dinner. Kids and adults alike will look forward to it.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

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.

When you need dinner ready with minimal effort, these meatballs are a go-to. Cooking all day, they’re ready when you are, making evenings easier. The slow cooker porcupine meatballs provide a hearty, comforting meal. Easily adaptable, they fit various tastes and preferences. By the time dinner is over, no tedious leftover management. Perfect for those busy family nights.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken in a bowl with a bowl of rice in the background.
Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Spice up the dinner routine with this quick and flavorful option. Perfect for when you’re in the mood for something different but easy. The copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken brings familiar flavors home without the hassle of leftovers. Enjoy a delicious meal that’s straightforward to make and serve. Ideal for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals. Everyone will appreciate the change of pace.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken

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.

Weeknight dinners just got better with this Italian-inspired favorite. Simple yet satisfying, this one leaves everyone joining the clean plate club. The copycat Il Fornaio rigatoni alla vodka offers a taste of Italy without excess. It’s easy to prepare and provides just the right amount. Perfect for families who want a bit of flair without the fuss. Enjoy an inviting meal with no worries about what to do with leftovers.
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.

A refreshing choice for those evenings when you want something light but filling. Combining various textures and flavors, this salad keeps things interesting. The Chinese chicken salad is easy to make and even easier to finish in one meal. No need to worry about leftovers cluttering the fridge. Perfect for a family meal that’s quick yet enjoyable. Everyone will appreciate this healthy, tasty option.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins

Two bowls of Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Comfort food that’s ready in no time, this classic is perfect for weeknights. Enjoy the familiar flavors without the restaurant trip. The Copycat Cracker Barrel chicken and dumplins offer a hearty meal that satisfies. Simple to prepare and quick to disappear. Ideal for a family meal that leaves everyone content. No stress about storage, just clean plates and happy faces.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins

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.

Get that classic diner feel from the comfort of home with this dinner option. It’s quick to prepare and bound to be a family favorite. The diner-style Salisbury steak provides that hearty, comforting taste everyone loves. Serve with simple sides for a complete meal that’s easy to manage. Perfect for busy nights, no leftovers to deal with. Just good food and happy eaters.
Get the Recipe: Diner Style Salisbury Steak

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.

For those nights when you want a bit of something special without too much effort, this is it. Simple to make and quick to disappear, a favorite will emerge. The copycat Alice Springs chicken offers a delightful blend of flavors. Perfect for kids and adults alike without worrying about leftovers. Always a welcomed addition to the dinner table. Easy to prepare, does the trick every time.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

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.

When you need a break from the routine, this option is ideal. Quick to make and pleasing for all ages, it’s bound to be a hit. The copycat HelloFresh crispy shallot pork croquettes provide a delightful dinner with minimal work. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need something fast but different. Enjoy a meal with no fuss about leftovers. A refreshing take on dinner.
Get the Recipe: Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes

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.

Quick and refreshing, this salad is perfect for busy families. Combining wholesome ingredients, it’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Nobody will be bored by what’s on their plate. The easy salmon pasta salad offers a healthy meal that’s light but filling. Perfect for those evenings when you want something simple. No worries about storing leftovers, just a clean and content table.
Get the Recipe: Easy Salmon Pasta Salad

Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers

A plate of Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers sprinkled with chopped herbs.
Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Bring a bit of restaurant flair to your home with this flavorful option. Quick to make and always a crowd-pleaser. The copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy sausage & peppers offers a hearty, satisfying meal. It’s simple, making it perfect for weeknights. Everyone will appreciate the vibrant flavors. No leftovers to store away, just an enjoyable dinner.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers

Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Two bowls of Copycat Carrabba's Mama Mandola's Sicilian Chicken Soup, accompanied by two spoons, a black pepper grinder, and a napkin.
Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

For those days you need something comforting, this soup is a go-to. Quick to prepare with that homestyle feel everyone loves. The copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian chicken soup fits the bill perfectly. Each bowl is satisfying, leaving no need for leftovers. Ideal for a family meal that’s both nourishing and easy to make. Everyone will come back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup

A closeup of Jason's Deli Irish Potato Soup.`
Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

This soup offers a comforting and quick meal for busy evenings. Perfect for families, it’s easy to make and quick to enjoy. The copycat Jason’s Deli Irish potato soup provides a filling, tasty option. Warm and inviting, it’s the kind of meal that disappears fast. Forget about managing leftovers, just focus on enjoying dinner. Perfect for a simple, satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup

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.

Got leftover steak? Transform it into delicious soft tacos everyone will love. Quick to make and eat, they’re ideal for those busy nights. The leftover steak soft tacos provide a tasty option without much hassle. No worries about leftovers because it’s designed to finish in one sitting. Always a welcomed meal, easy and fun.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Soft Tacos

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.

Perfect for when you want a fun, delicious dinner without a lot of fuss. This option brings familiar flavors right to your kitchen. The copycat Domino’s cheddar bacon loaded tots offer a flavorful combination everyone loves. Easy to make and even easier to finish off. Ideal for family nights, you won’t be dealing with leftovers. Just good food and happy eaters.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

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