17 Dishes To Make Family Dinners More Exciting

Family dinners getting a bit routine? Shake things up with a mix of 17 different dishes to bring some excitement to the table. These dishes offer a range of flavors to keep everyone interested. Say goodbye to the same-old meals that feel like a chore for everyone. Changing up the menu can make dinner feel like an adventure again. Get ready for some fun and tasty evenings ahead.

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.

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.

Give dinner a kick with Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter. It’s a steak that’s anything but boring, full of bold flavors that’ll wake up any mealtime. Perfect for a weekend cookout or a special weekday treat, adding some fun to your routine. The butter adds a rich, tasty layer that makes each bite worth savoring. Watch how quickly everyone comes to the table when they know what’s cooking.
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.

Looking to impress without the mess? Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu is a winner. It’s an easy way to bring a touch of class to dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the air fryer makes it lighter and quicker to prepare. Dinner just got a lot more interesting with this crispy, cheesy favorite.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

2 Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwiches on a black plate.
Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Kick sandwich night up a notch with a Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich. It’s got everything needed to make a simple meal awesome: juicy chicken, fresh flavors, and a fun twist. Perfect for a quick dinner but fancy enough to feel special. You’ll find yourself craving one all the time once you try it. Ideal for a sunny day, indoor or out.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

Pizza Pasta Salad

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

Pizza Pasta Salad brings the fun of pizza and the comfort of pasta together in one dish. It’s great for a potluck or a light family dinner. Easy to prep ahead and super kid-friendly, making it a go-to for busy nights. It’s a playful mix that keeps everyone excited for mealtime. Cool, tasty, and a bit unexpected.
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.

Breakfast for dinner? Why not! Cottage Cheese Toast with Blueberries is a fresh take that shakes up the evening vibe. It’s a quick, easy no-cook option that’s perfect for busy nights. A mix of textures and a hint of sweetness make it a must-try. Watch how quickly it disappears from the plate.
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.

Turn leftovers into something new with Leftover Steak Quesadilla. This dish rescues last night’s dinner and reinvents it into a fun, casual meal. Great for busy nights when quick and easy is a must. Melty, cheesy, and a little bit unexpected, this one’s a crowd-pleaser. Paired with a simple salad, dinner is ready in no time.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Quesadilla

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.

Bring a touch of Asian flair to the table with Chinese Chicken Salad. It’s light, crunchy, and full of flavors that make dinner feel special. Great for those warm nights when you need something fresh and simple. Easy to make and super enjoyable, it’s a salad that doesn’t feel like a chore. Everyone will appreciate this delightful change of pace.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

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

All the comfort of a restaurant favorite, ready at home with Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings. It’s a warming meal that feels like a big hug. Perfect for cozy family dinners on chillier nights. This dish brings the flavors of a beloved classic straight to your own table. Watch how quickly it becomes a household staple.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

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

Brighten up your dinner with some Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp. It’s a refreshing dish that offers a delightful mix of flavors, perfect for warmer evenings. Easy to prepare and fun to eat, it’s great for outdoor gatherings or a special indoor meal. Light but satisfying, it’s a wonderful way to change up your usual dinners. Seafood fans will particularly love this one.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

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.

For a one-pan wonder, try Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe. It’s hearty, comforting, and perfect for a busy weeknight. This dish saves time on both cooking and cleaning up. A mix of soft gnocchi and flavorful sausage brings warmth and satisfaction. Your family will love this robust and easy dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe

Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

A bowl of Mediterranean orzo salad on a black plate.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Make dinner fresh and exciting with Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp. It’s a light, flavorful option that’s perfect for warmer nights. Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy schedules. Full of vibrant tastes that make each bite special. Great for a change of pace from heavier meals.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

Chicken Piccata

Two chicken piccata on a white plate with parsley and lemon wedges.
Chicken Piccata. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Add a touch of elegance to family dinners with Chicken Piccata. It’s a bright, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite. Perfect for nights when you want something a bit different but still easy to make. The tangy sauce makes it stand out in the best way. A wonderful way to enjoy a midweek meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

Beefy John Wayne Casserole

A slice of beefy John Wayne casserole on a plate.
Beefy John Wayne Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bring some hearty fun to the table with Beefy John Wayne Casserole. This dish layers flavors in a comforting and familiar way. Perfect for a family meal that feels both filling and tasty. Easy to prepare and even better to enjoy, making dinner something to look forward to. Ideal for those who love a good, satisfying casserole.
Get the Recipe: Beefy John Wayne Casserole

Turkey à la King

A plate with a Turkey à la King and salad on it.
Turkey à la King. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Turkey à la King is a great way to bring something classic to dinner without too much fuss. It’s creamy, comfy, and perfect for an easy but satisfying meal. Great for using up leftover turkey or when you want something different. Pairs well with simple sides to round out the meal. A cozy dish that the whole family will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Turkey à la King

Roast Pork with Apples

A plate of Pork Roast with Apples on a table.
Roast Pork with Apples. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bring a hint of sweetness to dinner with Roast Pork with Apples. It’s a great way to enjoy pork with a little twist. This dish is perfect for a family meal that feels both special and comforting. Easy to prepare but with a taste that makes each bite count. Wonderful for a cozy evening in.
Get the Recipe: Roast Pork with Apples

Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

A platter of sheet pan lemon-rosemary chicken with lemon slices, herbs, and garnished with cherry tomatoes.
Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For an easy yet flavor-packed meal, try Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken. It’s a simple, all-in-one dish that’s perfect for busy nights. The fresh zest of lemon and herby rosemary make it a standout. Just pop it in the oven and enjoy some extra free time. Dinner doesn’t get much easier or more enjoyable than this.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

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.

Change up your dinner routine with Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef. It’s a flexible, easy-to-make dish that’s full of flavor. Perfect for tacos, bowls, or just by itself. Kids and adults alike will love the tasty twist. Great for a filling meal that doesn’t take all night to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef

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