17 Family Favorites Everyone Demands For Dinner

Every family has those dinner dishes that get everyone excited to gather around the table. These are the meals that make even the pickiest eaters clean their plates. So, what’s the secret to these beloved meals? It’s a mix of nostalgia, comfort, and a dash of deliciousness. These 17 dishes have stood the test of time and taste, making them the go-to choices for family dinners.

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

Leftover Steak Quesadilla

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

When dinner calls for a quick fix that’s sure to please the whole family, turning to a classic Leftover Steak Quesadilla is always a smart move. It’s the ideal recipe when you want a no-fuss meal that conjures up the warmth of family favorites. Evening meals made simple and enjoyable, this dish brings your previous night’s steak back to the spotlight in a new and exciting way.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Quesadilla

Pizza Pasta Salad

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

Imagine packing the excitement of pizza night into a dish that’s perfect for any occasion—this is precisely where Pizza Pasta Salad comes in handy. It’s the go-to choice for a casual family dinner or when you’re tasked with bringing a dish to pass. With its crowd-pleasing appeal, you can expect this to become a recurring demand at your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pasta Salad

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.

For a dinner that captures the essence of classic comfort food, nothing comes close to Diner Style Salisbury Steak. This dish harkens back to familiar flavors and homestyle cooking without the excess fuss of dining out. Expect this recipe to become a staple for those evenings when everyone craves a touch of nostalgia with their meal.
Get the Recipe: Diner Style Salisbury Steak

Wild Rice Salad

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

Looking for a lighter option that doesn’t skim on flavors everyone loves? Wild Rice Salad might just be your answer. It’s a dish that lends itself to a variety of dinner situations, whether as the main event or a complementary side. Bring a bit of variety to the table with this choice, as it’s sure to be asked for again.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice 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.

Contrary to what you might think, bringing breakfast to the dinner scene can be a winning strategy, especially with Cottage Cheese Toast with Blueberries. It’s the sort of recipe that’s easy to pull off on a hectic weeknight. Not only does this dish promise a break from the norm, but it’s also bound to become one of those meals that the family insists on regular rotation.
Get the Recipe: Cottage Cheese Toast with Blueberries

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.

Dig into the world of comforting meals with minimal effort when you opt for Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs. It’s a dish that lets you go about your day without the worry of what’s for dinner. You can count on coming home to a meal that’s ready to serve, and with its crowd-pleasing nature, it’s sure to become a sought-after dinner choice in your home.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

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.

On the lookout for a meal that brings both refreshment and fullness to the table? Turn your attention to Chinese Chicken Salad, a vibrant pick that’s as fitting for a summer evening as it is for a light lunch. Once your family gets a taste of this, it’ll frequently make the dinner lineup. It’s proof that you can have a wholesome meal without sacrificing the joy of eating together.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

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.

Recreating a restaurant dish at home can be an exciting dinner game-changer, especially one like Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka. This dish is perfect for when you’re in the mood to indulge in the comfort of Italian cuisine. Anticipate requests for this dish to reappear, as it’s likely to secure a spot amongst family favorites with its familiar yet indulgent presence at the table.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

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.

Reimagine last night’s dinner with a recipe that brings a fresh perspective to the table: Leftover Steak Soft Tacos. This recipe makes for an easy transition from traditional fare to a meal with a bit of flair. Your family will soon be asking for this dish by name, proving that leftovers can be reinvented into an entirely new and exciting dinner.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Soft Tacos

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.

Easy Salmon Pasta Salad combines the richness of salmon with the lightness of a pasta salad, making it a preferred choice for those seeking a nutritious yet filling meal. This dish is often requested for its refreshing balance and quick preparation, making it perfect for busy evenings or leisurely weekend lunches. Serve this at your next family gathering for a guaranteed hit.
Get the Recipe: Easy Salmon Pasta Salad

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.

Opt for this dish when you’re in the mood to impress with minimal effort. Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes bring gourmet right to your dinner table with a fun and flavorful twist. These croquettes are a family favorite for their crispy exterior and juicy interior. They’re perfect for changing up the dinner routine with something a bit more special, yet still approachable for all ages.
Get the Recipe: Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes

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.

Mediterranean Chopped Salad is a colorful and vibrant dish that injects a dose of freshness into any meal. This salad is popular for its variety of textures and flavors, which come together to create a fulfilling yet light dining option. It’s a staple for health-conscious families looking for a dish that satisfies without the heaviness of more traditional meals.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chopped Salad

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.

Serve this on a cold night to warm up your family gathering, providing a taste of home-cooked tradition that’s hard to resist. Chicken Paprikash is a comforting dish known for its rich, paprika-spiced sauce and tender chicken pieces. This traditional meal is a frequent request due to its hearty and comforting qualities, making it perfect for a fulfilling dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash

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.

For a taste of international cuisine, Korean Galbi Ribs are a spectacular choice that always seems to make the dinner demand list. These ribs are celebrated for their sweet and savory glaze, which caramelizes perfectly when cooked, providing a sticky, finger-licking experience. Ideal for weekend barbecues or special family dinners, they offer a rich flavor that’s both exotic and familiar.
Get the Recipe: Korean Galbi Ribs

Chicken Stir Fry

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

Chicken Stir Fry is a quick and versatile dinner option that families love for its vibrant mix of vegetables and succulent chicken pieces. This dish is a staple for those evenings when time is short but the demand for a flavorful meal is high. It’s a colorful, healthful option that can be tailored to suit various tastes, making it a reliable favorite.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Stir Fry

Cuban Sandwich Casserole

A piece of Cuban sandwich casserole on a plate with potato chips.
Cuban Sandwich Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This dish is often requested for its unique twist on traditional flavors, combining the elements of a beloved sandwich in a form that’s easy to share and serve. Cuban Sandwich Casserole transforms the classic Cuban sandwich into a delectable casserole that’s perfect for family gatherings or potlucks. It’s a crowd-pleaser at any event, bringing a fusion of flavors that satisfies a diverse range of tastes.
Get the Recipe: Cuban Sandwich Casserole

Ground Beef Fried Rice

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

Ground Beef Fried Rice is a hearty dish that makes the most of simple ingredients to deliver big flavors. This dish is a favorite for its quick prep and comforting taste, making it ideal for busy weeknights. It’s a practical choice that fills the kitchen with its enticing aroma, drawing everyone to the table with anticipation. Serve this fried rice whenever you need a meal that promises to please the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Fried Rice

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