37 Entrees You Can Make in the Time It Takes to Debate What Everyone Actually Wants to Eat

Family meals often turn into an unofficial episode of “Meal Negotiations,” with everyone pitching their impossible-to-please ideas at the table. Instead of wasting time throwing out suggestions that no one agrees on, why not trade those endless debates for meals that are ready in record time? This lineup of 37 dishes is perfect for cutting through the chaos and giving everyone something they’ll actually eat.

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

A Southern Classic: Tomato Pie

A slice of tomato pie on a white plate with a serving utensil, and a whole tomato pie in a white fluted dish, are shown on a marble surface with a small bowl of spices and basil leaves.
A Southern Classic: Tomato Pie. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

With bold flavors and a crumbly crust, A Southern Classic: Tomato Pie builds upon fresh, juicy tomatoes layered together with a creamy blend of cheese and herbs. Adding a hint of richness, the mayonnaise binds everything perfectly, creating a mouthwatering filling. The entire dish is encased in a golden-brown crust that provides a lovely crunch in every bite. For its simplicity and elegance, this pie is both comforting and worth making any time hunger strikes.
Get the Recipe: A Southern Classic: Tomato Pie

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

A close-up shot of a fork lifting a portion of macaroni salad, with a bowl of the salad in the blurred background.
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

A plate of Hawaiian Macaroni Salad features pretty straightforward ingredients that come together to deliver something memorable. Soft and tender macaroni is coated in a creamy dressing with hints of sweetness and tanginess, balancing out every bite. Fresh vegetables such as shredded carrots give the dish a pop of texture and flavor. It’s no wonder that this dish often takes center stage as a versatile side or a light main meal option.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

31 of Chef Jenn's FAVE Casseroles!

Recipes for Comfort-Filled Family Meals

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The Best Spring Minestrone

A bowl of Spring Minestrone sits on a plate with a spoon beside it.
The Best Spring Minestrone. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Warm and hearty, The Best Spring Minestrone brings together a medley of vegetables, beans, and pasta swimming in a light, flavorful broth. The combination of fresh ingredients ensures every spoonful feels wholesome and nourishing for the soul. Parmesan cheese often adds an optional layer of flavor to round out the dish’s depth. Making this soup is an excellent way to serve up something filling quickly, while still keeping it balanced and packed with nutrients.
Get the Recipe: The Best Spring Minestrone

Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos

Two pieces of Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos served on a black slate plate.
Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

At its core, Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos are all about recreating a familiar favorite with restaurant-quality results. Shredded and marinated chicken fills soft tortillas, paired with refreshing toppings like lettuce and avocado. A creamy sauce ties everything together, creating that signature taco experience that made them so popular to begin with. In barely any time, you’ve got a handheld treat that beats waiting in a drive-thru line.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos

Pastitsio

A square piece of pastitsio served on a stack of black plates with three forks and a rectangular baking tray filled with the same pasta on the side.
Pastitsio. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

A comforting mix of pasta, meat sauce, and creamy béchamel makes Pastitsio an irresistible choice for quick yet pleasurable meals. Layers of spiced ground beef and tender noodles are topped with a rich sauce that browns beautifully in the oven. Known for its layered texture, every forkful is a balance of delicious and hearty ingredients. Its kind-of lasagna feel is matched by the ease of creation, and plenty of servings make sure leftovers are easily sorted.
Get the Recipe: Pastitsio

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.

Offering simplicity without sacrificing taste, 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken is a go-to when efficiency is needed. With the protein slow-cooked to perfection, it becomes tender and infused with the flavors of whatever broth or spices it’s cooked alongside. This entry is proof that less is indeed more, packing both flavor and texture without unnecessary complexity. Once ready, it’s highly versatile and can be served on its own or paired with rice, veggies, or potatoes for balance.
Get the Recipe: 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken

Reuben Quesadillas

Reuben quesadilla slices are arranged in a circle around a black bowl of creamy dipping sauce, garnished with chopped parsley on a round plate.
Reuben Quesadillas. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

A mash-up of flavors comes alive in Reuben Quesadillas, where delicious corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese meet crispy tortilla wraps. The salty, sour contrast between fillings ensures a unique experience with every bite. Mild Thousand Island dressing plays its role to perfection, providing a subtle complement to the boldness of everything else. A creative twist on the classic that appeals to fans of sandwiches and quesadillas alike, it’s quick to prepare and easy to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Reuben Quesadillas

Vintage Chicken Divan

Two cast-iron skillets filled with vintage chicken divan and a fork dishing up one serving.
Vintage Chicken Divan. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Served hot and bubbling, Vintage Chicken Divan combines tender pieces of chicken wrapped in a creamy sauce with broccoli for a hint of color and extra texture. Often topped with breadcrumbs and cheese, the whole dish is baked until golden and appetizing. While filled with comforting flavors, it still manages to feel balanced enough for a family-style meal. Nothing overly complicated, but enough personality that you’ll want seconds.
Get the Recipe: Vintage Chicken Divan

Classic Meatballs

A plate of spaghetti topped with two meatballs, marinara sauce, grated cheese, and basil garnish.
Classic Meatballs. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

With perfectly seasoned ground beef and additions like breadcrumbs and herbs, Classic Meatballs make meal prep a breeze. Whether pan-fried or baked, they consistently deliver a versatile option that pairs well with pasta, subs, or as a stand-alone entrée. Their texture—both soft and firm—ensures they hold flavor effortlessly, whether simmered in sauce or served on their own. Cooking multiple batches is simple, so leftovers or meal prepping become stress-free with these meatballs at your disposal.
Get the Recipe: Classic Meatballs

Old Fashioned Slow Cooker Herb-Crusted Pork Roast

A plate with a Slow Cooker Herb-Crusted Pork Roast and roasted vegetables.
Old Fashioned Slow Cooker Herb-Crusted Pork Roast. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Slow cooking ensures that Old Fashioned Slow Cooker Herb-Crusted Pork Roast stays juicy and packed full of herbal flavors. Combining spices directly into the crust creates a fragrant mix when paired with the rich taste of roasted pork. The simplicity of slow cooking brings convenience while allowing aromatic flavors to seep into every bite. With tender meat and herb-forward notes, its hearty appeal fits well as a main course for almost any table.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Slow Cooker Herb-Crusted Pork Roast

Mexican Chicken Casserole

Mexican Chicken Casserole on a rectangular pan.
Mexican Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Warm layers make Mexican Chicken Casserole a standout for quick meals, combining shredded chicken, spicy salsa, and melty cheeses. Tortilla chips folded in or layered add texture and infuse the dish with crunch and flavor. It’s all about the balance of creamy elements alongside slightly spicy notes that feel familiar and comfortingly fun. Easy to make and share, this casserole is one worth adding to any rotation.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Chicken Casserole

Texas BLT

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

Bringing together the classic trio of bacon, lettuce, and tomato, Texas BLT steps it up a notch with a dose of bold Texan flair. The thick-cut bacon pairs perfectly with juicy tomatoes and fresh greens, all layered between slices of toasted bread. Adding a flavorful mayo spread creates richness that complements every bite. Customize the sandwich easily to suit preferences like extra veggies or cheese.
Get the Recipe: Texas BLT

Tacos Dorados

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

Treat yourself to an enjoyable plate of Tacos Dorados, featuring crispy golden taco shells packed with flavorful fillings. Ground meat seasoned with spices forms the base, with optional toppings like shredded lettuce, cheese, and salsa adding freshness and crunch. A quick frying process transforms tortillas into irresistible crispy pockets. Serve them warm alongside rice or beans for a fulfilling meal.
Get the Recipe: Tacos Dorados

Skillet Chicken With Lemon, Artichokes & Feta

A slate platter with Skillet Chicken with Lemon, Artichokes & Feta topped with herbs.
Skillet Chicken With Lemon, Artichokes & Feta. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Cooking Skillet Chicken With Lemon, Artichokes & Feta takes virtually no time, yet delivers layers of tangy brightness. Juicy chicken breast is browned and simmered alongside tangy lemon slices and tender artichoke hearts. A sprinkle of feta adds a salty creaminess that completes the dish. Pair it with rice or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Chicken With Lemon, Artichokes & Feta

Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

A white rectangular plate with slow cooker porcupine meatballs, garnished with fresh herbs.
Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Let the simplicity of Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs bring flavorful comfort to your dinner table. Seasoned ground meat is mixed with rice before shaping into hearty meatballs, then slow-cooked in a tomato-based sauce for hours. The rice softens while the delicious juices enhance each bite. Serve with mashed potatoes or rolls for a balanced and filling meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

White Bean Salad

A plate of white bean salad on a wooden surface next to two vintage forks.
White Bean Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Toss delicate ingredients together with ease using White Bean Salad as a quick and nutritious dish. A mix of cannellini beans, fresh vegetables like cucumber and tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil creates freshness in every bite. Adding herbs or a touch of vinegar lends a subtle complexity that makes it stand out. Serve as a light entrée or alongside grilled items for added variety.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Salad

Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin With Sweet Potatoes & Apples

A serving of Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin with Sweet Potatoes & Apples on a white platter.
Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin With Sweet Potatoes & Apples. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Infuse natural sweetness into your dinner with Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin With Sweet Potatoes & Apples. Tender pork cooks slowly alongside chunks of sweet potatoes and tart apples, creating deep, comforting flavors. A simple seasoning mix balances sweetness and tangy notes. Pair this with a simple salad or optional gravy for a memorable meal the whole family will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin With Sweet Potatoes & Apples

Mediterranean Salmon

Mediterranean Salmon on a white rectangular plate.
Mediterranean Salmon. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

For a versatile entrée packed with flavor, Mediterranean Salmon perfectly combines fresh ingredients in under 30 minutes. Salmon fillets are seasoned and roasted, topped off with an olive or herb-forward garnish. Quick cooking locks in the fish’s tenderness while the Mediterranean-inspired flavors brighten the dish. Add a side of vegetables or couscous for a pleasurable dinner.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Salmon

Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole

Top-down shot of Tuna Noodle Casserole on a dish with a small portion on a black plate.
Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Transform canned tuna into a hearty meal with Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole that’s both simple and delicious. Cooked noodles are mixed with tuna, cream sauce, and topped with golden breadcrumbs for a crispy finish. The dish marries creamy and delicious flavors with ease. Customize it by adding vegetables like peas or mushrooms for a healthy twist without any fuss.
Get the Recipe: Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole

Mississippi Chicken – Slow Cooker

Mississippi Chicken - Slow Cooker with herbs and two yellow peppers on a white rectangular plate.
Mississippi Chicken – Slow Cooker. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Let Mississippi Chicken – Slow Cooker simplify dinner prep while infusing flavor into every bite. Chicken thighs or breasts simmer slowly with ranch seasoning, peppers, and flavorful butter until tender. The result is juicy meat with a mildly spiced, tangy sauce that pairs well with mashed potatoes or crusty bread. Perfect for assembling in minutes, you’ll look forward to enjoying this hearty dish.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Chicken – Slow Cooker

Baked Feta Pasta

Baked Feta Pasta on a platter.
Baked Feta Pasta. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Achieve creamy goodness in no time with Baked Feta Pasta, a dish that combines minimal effort and maximum flavor. A block of feta bakes alongside cherry tomatoes, softening into a rich sauce that’s combined with cooked pasta. Stirring it all together with garlic or herbs enhances its aromatic qualities. Perfect for busy evenings, this dinner feels special while staying simple and quick.
Get the Recipe: Baked Feta Pasta

Shrimp Scampi

Shrimp scampi with a slice of lemon on a black dish.
Shrimp Scampi. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Cooking Shrimp Scampi offers a flavorful seafood dish that balances buttery richness with bright citrus notes. Fresh shrimp are sautéed in garlic butter and olive oil before a splash of white wine and lemon juice brings freshness to the dish. Serve this classic seafood entrée over pasta or alongside fresh bread to enhance the flavors it delivers in each bite.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak

Double halves of Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak on a slate plate.
Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Recreate the flavors of a classic sandwich easily with Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak made in moments. Ground beef is cooked with onions and peppers before being nestled between toasted rolls. Melted cheese completes the dish, making each bite gooey and enjoyable. This quick alternative simplifies the recipe while retaining all of its signature hearty aspects.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak

Vintage Slow Cooker Sausage & Peppers

Slow cooker sausage and peppers garnished with grated cheese and chopped parsley.
Vintage Slow Cooker Sausage & Peppers. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Bring comfort and boldness to your dinner with Vintage Slow Cooker Sausage & Peppers ready to go after hours of slow cooking. Whole or sliced sausages cook alongside bell peppers, onions, and tomato sauce for a deeply flavored combination. Serve it over rice, pasta, or in rolls to transform this versatile dish effortlessly depending on what fits your evening best.
Get the Recipe: Vintage Slow Cooker Sausage & Peppers

Saucy Smothered Pork Chops

Golden-brown Saucy Smothered Pork Chops topped with a creamy mushroom and onion gravy, garnished with red pepper flakes.
Saucy Smothered Pork Chops. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Enjoy tender meat covered in flavorful sauce when you make Saucy Smothered Pork Chops for dinner. Thick-cut pork chops cook to perfection in a rich gravy made with onions and spices. The comforting juices work well over mashed potatoes or rice as a base. Minimal prep work makes this a reliable recipe to throw together when quick meals are necessary without sacrificing taste.
Get the Recipe: Saucy Smothered Pork Chops

Chicken Cacciatore

A white dish filled with pieces of Chicken Cacciatore in a red sauce, garnished with chopped herbs.
Chicken Cacciatore. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Bring Italian-inspired flavors to your table with Chicken Cacciatore, a hearty dish tailored for family meals. Chicken thighs are browned before being simmered in a sauce filled with tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, creating robust depth. Mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers can be added based on preference. Serving it with pasta or crusty bread ensures a complete meal with minimal effort required during preparation.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cacciatore

John Wayne Casserole

A slice of John Wayne casserole on a black plate beside a baking dish of the same casserole.
John Wayne Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Named after the iconic actor, John Wayne Casserole combines bold flavors into one pleasurable dish. Layers of baked ground beef, biscuits or crescent dough, and a creamy salsa topping make it filling and memorable. Cooking everything together simplifies prep while blending these components seamlessly. This easy-to-make casserole works excellently when you need something hearty on the table in no time.
Get the Recipe: John Wayne Casserole

Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs

Bowl of browned Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs garnished with chopped parsley and yellow pepperoncini peppers.
Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Add depth and simplicity to your evening meal with Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs, a recipe highly suited for minimal effort. Ground beef meatballs simmer slowly in a flavorful sauce made with seasonings like ranch and rich butter. Serve them over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles to turn the concentrated flavors into a rewarding entrée. Assemble everything in advance and let the slow cooker handle the rest.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs

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.

Try the Hungarian classic Chicken Paprikash, a dish known for its lightly creamy and mildly spiced flavors. Chicken cooks tenderly in a paprika-rich sauce combined with onions and sour cream to create balance. Spoon it over noodles or rice to soak up the velvety sauce. Perfectly suited for quick yet hearty meals, this dish blends elegance with simplicity to impress effortlessly.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash

Salmon Gnocchi Bake

Salmon Gnocchi Bake on a casserole dish.
Salmon Gnocchi Bake. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Incorporating salmon and soft gnocchi, Salmon Gnocchi Bake offers a rich yet simple way to enjoy dinner prepared in less than an hour. Bites of fish and gnocchi are mixed with a light cream sauce and baked until bubbly. Fresh herbs enhance the flavor while the baking process develops a golden topping. Serve with a side salad or vegetables to complement its lovely textures.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Gnocchi Bake

Oven Baked Ribs

Oven-baked ribs with onion and garlic on top served on a white rectangular plate.
Oven Baked Ribs. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Skip the grill and try Oven Baked Ribs when you’re short on time but still want bold and tender barbecue flavors. Pork ribs cook in the oven, seasoned generously, then finished with a light coat of sauce that soaks into every bite. Simple cooking ensures fall-off-the-bone tenderness without any heavy monitoring. Pair the ribs with a serving of baked beans or corn for a reliable and quick dinner session.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs

Easiest Slow Cooker Rump Roast

A plate of slow cooker rump roast with potatoes, carrots, onions, and a sprig of rosemary on a white dish.
Easiest Slow Cooker Rump Roast. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Preparing Easiest Slow Cooker Rump Roast transforms a simple ingredient into a melt-in-your-mouth dinner without requiring constant supervision. The roast cooks slowly with onions and carrots to enhance its tenderness and flavor complexity. Add a light seasoning mix to boost the meat’s natural richness. Slicing and serving it alongside mashed potatoes ensures a pleasurable meal done effortlessly.
Get the Recipe: Easiest Slow Cooker Rump Roast

Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken fried rice on a white plate with a green napkin.
Chicken Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Quickly repurpose leftovers into Chicken Fried Rice, a dish that transforms simple ingredients into something flavorful. Stir-frying seasoned chicken with a mix of rice, vegetables, and soy sauce creates an aromatic and filling meal in minutes. Using cold rice ensures better texture, while controlling additional seasoning keeps saltiness balanced. This adaptable recipe works well for weekday dinners or quick lunches.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Baja Fish Tacos

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

Use flaky fish as the highlight in Baja Fish Tacos, a recipe loaded with fresh, tangy flavors. The lightly breaded or grilled fish is nestled in soft tortillas with crunchy slaw and tangy sauce for contrast. Quick cooking keeps the taco assembly fast and easy. Adding optional toppings like avocado or cilantro lets you tailor them exactly to your taste preferences for simple mealtime variety.
Get the Recipe: Baja Fish Tacos

Air Fryer Chicken Fries

Air fried chicken fries with dipping sauce on a wooden cutting board.
Air Fryer Chicken Fries. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Crisp and tender pieces take center stage in Air Fryer Chicken Fries, a recipe that ensures minimal oil while retaining crunchiness. Strips of chicken are breaded lightly before cooking in the air fryer to golden perfection. Serve them with dipping sauces like honey mustard or sriracha mayo for approachable flavor combinations. Whether as a snack or main dish, preparation is simple and fast without losing appeal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Fries

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.

Combine two mealtime favorites effortlessly with Steak & Pasta Salad, ideal for a hearty yet refreshing dish. Tender slices of steak pair with cooked pasta tossed in a light dressing, creating a balance of textures. Adding crunchy vegetables like bell peppers further rounds out the recipe’s flavor profile. Serve chilled or slightly warm, depending on preference, for a versatile creation ready in under an hour.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Pasta Salad

Shipwreck Casserole

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

For a one-pan dinner option, try Shipwreck Casserole, which layers ground beef, potatoes, and vegetables into a cohesive baked dish. A simple seasoning mix ties the elements together, while baking ensures tenderness and flavor melding. Prep is minimal, and cooking everything together makes cleanup easier. This comforting recipe caters to busy evenings while delivering everything needed for a fulfilling meal.
Get the Recipe: Shipwreck Casserole

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