Dinner Solved: 19 Easy Entrees for Hectic Evenings

Juggling work, life, and everything in between leaves little room for complicated meals. It’s all about making dinner less of a chore and more of a breeze. With a handy list of these easy options, you can find something for everyone at the table without breaking a sweat. Each dish is designed to be straightforward, perfect for when you want something good without the fuss. Think of the convenience of having a go-to list that makes meal planning so much easier.

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

Shipwreck Casserole

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

Our Shipwreck Casserole is a modern twist on a comforting classic. This dish layers hearty beef, potatoes, and vibrant veggies, making it a complete meal in one pan. It’s ideal for those nights when you need something reliable yet easy to make. Just toss everything in and bake; no special skills are required. An effortless choice that resonates with flavors your family will love.
Get the Recipe: Shipwreck Casserole

Vintage Chicken Divan

Two cast-iron skillets filled with creamy, baked casserole topped with golden breadcrumbs and garnished with fresh thyme sprigs, set on a wooden surface. A fork rests in one serving.
Vintage Chicken Divan. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

This Vintage Chicken Divan brings a nostalgic element to your dinner table. Creamy and rich, this easy dish is the epitome of comfort food. The no-fuss recipe features chicken and broccoli slathered in a smooth sauce and topped with melted cheese. Perfect for making any hectic evening more indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen. Make it and watch everyone ask for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Vintage Chicken Divan

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.

Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs are a brilliant solution when your day is jam-packed. Combining meatballs with a hearty sauce, this meal practically cooks itself while you’re busy elsewhere. Form the meatballs, mix with the sauce, and let the slow cooker work magic. By dinner time, you’ve got tender meatballs with minimal effort. Great for those days when you’re short on time but still want something filling.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

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.

Introducing John Wayne Casserole, a robust and fulfilling dish that’s a breeze to prepare. With layers of seasoned beef, biscuits, and cheese, it guarantees full bellies. Each layer brings its own unique texture and flavor, offering something for everyone at the table. Pop it in the oven and let it work on its own while you tackle other evening tasks. It’s a hearty and effective solution for dinner conundrums.
Get the Recipe: John Wayne Casserole

Horiatiki Salad

A black bowl contains a Horiatiki salad with blocks of feta cheese, garnished with herbs.
Horiatiki Salad. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

For a refreshing yet straightforward option, Horiatiki Salad is the go-to. Featuring fresh vegetables and a simple dressing, it’s an easy dish that doesn’t compromise on flavor. There’s no need for elaborate prep, just some chopping and mixing. It’s perfect for when you want something light yet fulfilling, an excellent choice to balance out those heavier meals during the week.
Get the Recipe: Horiatiki Salad

Chicken Piccata

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

This ever-classic Chicken Piccata effortlessly brings spice to your evenings. Tender chicken cutlets simmered in a lemony sauce make for an elegant yet simplistic meal. It’s ideal for nights when you crave something a bit more sophisticated without getting too complicated. Pair it with a side of your choice, and you’ve got a meal that looks and tastes like you spent hours on it. It’s a splendid way to upgrade a busy weekday dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce

A bowl of pasta with cherry tomato sauce, cherry tomatoes, and garlic.
Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Our Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce is all about simplicity meeting taste. Fresh cherry tomatoes create a light, flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta. This dish is a savior on nights when you need a quick yet impressive meal. Just boil the pasta and sauté the tomatoes, and you’re done. It’s a brilliant option, especially when you want something fresh and not overly complicated.
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce

Chicken Stir Fry

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

Whip up a quick and versatile meal with Chicken Stir Fry. Loaded with chicken and a mix of crisp vegetables, this dish is nutritious and easy to make. The best part? It requires minimal prep and cooking time. Just toss everything in a wok or skillet, and dinner is ready quickly. Perfect for those evenings when you need something efficient and healthy.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Stir Fry

Tacos Dorados

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

Get your crunch on with Tacos Dorados, a fun and dynamic option for busy nights. These crispy tacos are filled with a delicious mixture, making them an irresistible choice. They’re easy to prepare yet give the impression of a much more elaborate dish. Simply fill, fry, and enjoy the crunch with each bite. A hit for both kids and adults alike, these tacos are perfect for mixing up your dinner routine.
Get the Recipe: Tacos Dorados

Chicken Tinga

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

Craving something flavorful yet easy? Chicken Tinga is the answer. This dish features tender chicken simmered in a rich sauce, making it both quick and full of taste. It’s versatile enough to enjoy on its own or in tacos, burritos, or bowls. It’s ideal for those nights when you want something a bit special but don’t have hours to spend cooking. It’s a versatile and tasty addition to any dinner rotation.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga

Brisket Fried Rice

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

Try Brisket Fried Rice for a unique twist on a popular dish. Using brisket adds rich flavor to the traditional fried rice, making it an instant favorite. The best part? It’s a one-pan meal, great for minimizing clean-up. Just toss in the brisket, veggies, and rice, and let it all come together. This recipe is perfect for utilizing leftovers and transforming them into something delicious.
Get the Recipe: Brisket Fried Rice

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 something hearty yet easy, consider Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe. This dish combines pillowy gnocchi, delicious sausage, and nutrient-rich broccoli rabe in one skillet. Everything cooks together, blending flavors beautifully. It’s a no-fuss meal that feels both comforting and enjoyable. It’s a straightforward choice for those hectic evenings when you need something filling and nourishing.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe

Cuban Sandwich Casserole

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

Our Cuban Sandwich Casserole captures the essence of the traditional sandwich in an easy-to-make dish. Layers of ham, pork, and Swiss cheese combine pickles and mustard, creating a burst of familiar flavors with minimal effort. Simply layer, bake, and serve. It’s a fun twist on a classic that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Great for when you want something comforting yet different.
Get the Recipe: Cuban Sandwich Casserole

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.

Give yourself a break with 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken. This ultra-simple dish needs four ingredients and a slow cooker to make a delicious meal. Toss everything in, let it cook while you handle your day, and return to perfectly tender chicken. It’s as easy as it sounds, making it ideal for those jam-packed days. It is a no-brainer option when you need dinner to be the least of your worries.
Get the Recipe: 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken

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.

Effortlessly put together a classic dish with Turkey à la King. This creamy turkey mixture is served over toast, rice, or pasta. It’s an easy way to use leftover turkey, but it feels like a brand-new meal. Minimal ingredients and steps make it a convenient choice for any night. This is a fantastic option that keeps things simple yet delicious for dinner.
Get the Recipe: Turkey à la King

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Air Fryer chicken cordon bleu on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Simplify elegance with Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. This dish offers the classic flavors of chicken cordon bleu made easier with the air fryer. Tender chicken, ham, and cheese are cooked to perfection with minimal prep. It’s great for when you want a fancy dinner without the hassle. Impress your family with less time and effort in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Roast Pork with Apples

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

Change up your usual routine with Roast Pork with Apples. This dish combines roast pork with the sweet twist of cooked apples, offering a unique flavor profile. It’s easy to prepare, letting the oven do most of the work. Simply season, roast, and add apples toward the final stages of cooking. It is an excellent choice for something special but easy on a busy evening.
Get the Recipe: Roast Pork with Apples

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.

For something light and different, try Cottage Cheese Toast with Blueberries. This unique dish combines creamy cottage cheese on toast topped with fresh blueberries for a burst of flavor. It’s quick to make and perfect for days when you don’t want a heavy meal. Just assemble and serve, and you’re good to go. It’s a simple yet enjoyable option that shakes up your usual dinner routine.
Get the Recipe: Cottage Cheese Toast with Blueberries

Baja Fish Tacos

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

Brighten up your evening with Baja Fish Tacos. Filled with crispy fish and topped with fresh additions, these tacos are a refreshing change. They’re easy to prepare, requiring basic ingredients and minimal cooking time. They’re a great way to make any weeknight feel like a fun, casual dining experience. Ideal for when you want something light, quick, and bursting with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Baja Fish Tacos

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