My Family Calls These 35 Recipes “The Good Ones”—And They’re Not Wrong
Add Preferred SourceNo one wants to hear the dreaded phrase, “What’s for dinner?” followed by silence. Thankfully, a trusted group of 35 recipes can save the day every time that question arises. These dishes have been passed around at family gatherings and have a knack for ensuring happy faces and full bellies. With a little creativity and some simple techniques, even those who claim they can’t cook can find success.
Oven Baked Ribs
Preparing a mouthwatering rack of Oven Baked Ribs has never been easier. These ribs are slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in tender meat that effortlessly falls off the bone. The secret lies in the flavorful dry rub and the low-and-slow cooking method, which allows the flavors to penetrate deep into the meat. Finish them off with a brush of your favorite barbecue sauce for a sticky, caramelized exterior that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs
Tuscan Soup with Sausage Kale
Warm up with a hearty bowl of Tuscan Soup with Sausage Kale, a comforting blend of flavors and textures. This robust soup combines spicy Italian sausage with nutritious kale, creating a balanced and filling meal. The addition of creamy white beans and aromatic herbs boosts this soup to a restaurant-quality dish. It’s a perfect one-pot meal that’s both nourishing and heartwarming, ideal for those cooler evenings when you crave something substantial.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Soup with Sausage Kale
Reuben Quesadillas
Experience a unique fusion of cuisines with these innovative Reuben Quesadillas. This clever twist on the classic sandwich combines the beloved flavors of a Reuben with the convenience of a quesadilla. Loaded with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing, these quesadillas offer a crispy exterior and a gooey, flavorful interior. They’re quick to make and perfect for a fun lunch or an easy dinner option that will appeal to both kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Reuben Quesadillas
Skillet Chicken with Lemon, Artichokes & Feta
Bring Mediterranean flavors to your table with this vibrant Skillet Chicken with Lemon, Artichokes & Feta. The combination of tangy lemon, briny artichokes, and creamy feta cheese creates a harmonious blend of flavors that complement the tender chicken. This one-pan dish is not only easy to prepare but also presents beautifully, making it suitable for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Serve it with crusty bread or over rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Chicken with Lemon, Artichokes & Feta
Cabbage and White Bean Soup
Nourishing and economical, this Cabbage and White Bean Soup is a comforting bowl of goodness. The humble cabbage transforms into a silky, flavorful base when simmered with aromatic vegetables and herbs. White beans add protein and a creamy texture, making this soup hearty enough to be a meal on its own. It’s an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet and can be easily customized with additional ingredients or toppings to suit your taste.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and White Bean Soup
Mississippi Chicken – Slow Cooker
Let your slow cooker do the work with this effortless Mississippi Chicken – Slow Cooker recipe. This Southern-inspired dish combines tender chicken with a rich, tangy sauce made from pepperoncini peppers, ranch seasoning, and au jus gravy mix. The long, slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in chicken that’s incredibly moist and packed with flavor. Serve it over rice, mashed potatoes or on sandwich rolls for a versatile meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Chicken – Slow Cooker
Old Fashioned Slow Cooker Herb-Crusted Pork Roast
Rediscover the comfort of home cooking with this Old Fashioned Slow Cooker Herb-Crusted Pork Roast. The pork is seasoned with a fragrant blend of herbs, creating a flavorful crust that infuses the meat as it cooks. The slow cooker method ensures that the roast remains juicy and tender while also freeing up your time for other tasks. This classic dish is perfect for Sunday dinners or special gatherings, and the leftovers make excellent sandwiches.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Slow Cooker Herb-Crusted Pork Roast
Vintage Chicken Divan
Step back in time with this Vintage Chicken Divan, a casserole that’s stood the test of time. Tender chicken and broccoli are layered and topped with a creamy, cheesy sauce, then baked until golden and bubbly. This retro dish combines comfort and elegance, making it suitable for both family dinners and entertaining guests. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal that’s sure to evoke feelings of nostalgia.
Get the Recipe: Vintage Chicken Divan
Baked Feta Pasta
Join the viral sensation with this incredibly simple yet flavorful Baked Feta Pasta. A block of feta cheese is baked with cherry tomatoes and olive oil until soft and creamy, then mixed with cooked pasta and fresh basil. The result is a luscious, tangy sauce that coats every strand of pasta perfectly. This dish proves that sometimes the simplest recipes can yield the most impressive results, and it’s sure to become a go-to for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Baked Feta Pasta
Tacos Dorados
Crispy, crunchy, and utterly irresistible, Tacos Dorados are a Mexican street food favorite brought to your home kitchen. Corn tortillas are filled with seasoned meat or beans, then rolled and fried until golden and crisp. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and the delicious filling is simply enjoyable. Serve them topped with lettuce, salsa, and crema for an authentic experience that will transport your palate south of the border.
Get the Recipe: Tacos Dorados
John Wayne Casserole
Named after the iconic actor, John Wayne Casserole is a hearty, Southwestern-inspired dish that’s sure to please. Layers of seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and a creamy cheese mixture are baked to perfection, creating a casserole that’s both comforting and flavorful. The addition of biscuit mix gives it a unique texture that sets it apart from other casseroles. It’s a filling, family-friendly meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: John Wayne Casserole
Steak and Potato Soup
Combine two classic comfort foods in one bowl with this robust Steak and Potato Soup. Tender chunks of steak and creamy potatoes are simmered in a rich, flavorful broth that’s both hearty and pleasurable. The addition of vegetables adds nutrition and texture, making this soup a complete meal in itself. It’s the perfect way to use up leftover steak, or you can cook the steak specifically for this soup for an extra-special treat.
Get the Recipe: Steak and Potato Soup
Chicken Paprikash
Experience the warmth of Hungarian cuisine with this traditional Chicken Paprikash. Tender pieces of chicken are cooked in a creamy paprika-infused sauce, creating a dish that’s both comforting and exotic. The vibrant red color from the paprika is visually appealing, while the flavors are rich and complex. Serve it over egg noodles or with a side of crusty bread to soak up every last bit of the delicious sauce.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash
Vintage Slow Cooker Sausage & Peppers
Recreate a classic Italian-American favorite with this Vintage Slow Cooker Sausage & Peppers recipe. The slow cooking process allows the flavors of the sausage, bell peppers, and onions to meld together beautifully, creating a dish that’s both rustic and flavorful. The sausages become tender and infused with the aromatic vegetables and herbs. Serve it on crusty rolls for a traditional sandwich or over pasta or polenta for a hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Vintage Slow Cooker Sausage & Peppers
Saucy Smothered Pork Chops
Level up your pork chop game with these Saucy Smothered Pork Chops. The pork chops are first seared to lock in flavor, then simmered in a rich, flavorful gravy until they’re fork-tender. Onions and mushrooms add depth and texture to the sauce, complementing the pork perfectly. This dish transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal that’s sure to impress. Serve it with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up all the delicious sauce.
Get the Recipe: Saucy Smothered Pork Chops
Cream Of Onion Soup
Discover the subtle sophistication of Cream Of Onion Soup, a velvety and comforting bowl of goodness. Onions are slowly caramelized to bring out their natural sweetness before being pureed into a smooth, creamy soup. The result is a rich, flavorful soup that’s both elegant and comforting. Top it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a handful of crispy croutons for added texture and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Cream Of Onion Soup
Easiest Slow Cooker Rump Roast
Simplify your dinner routine with this Easiest Slow Cooker Rump Roast recipe. The rump roast is seasoned and then slow-cooked to tender perfection, requiring minimal hands-on time. As it cooks, the meat absorbs all the flavors of the seasonings and creates its own rich gravy. The result is a succulent roast that’s perfect for Sunday dinners or special occasions. Serve it with roasted vegetables for a complete and enjoyable meal.
Get the Recipe: Easiest Slow Cooker Rump Roast
Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs
Rediscover a childhood favorite with these Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs. The meatballs are made with a mixture of ground beef and rice, which gives them their unique “porcupine” appearance as the rice pokes out during cooking. They’re then slow-cooked in a tangy tomato sauce, allowing the flavors to meld and the meatballs to become incredibly tender. This nostalgic dish is both fun and comforting, perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs
Easy Hamburger Stew
When you’re craving a hearty, no-fuss meal, turn to this Easy Hamburger Stew. Ground beef is cooked with a variety of vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth, creating a stew that’s both filling and nutritious. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability – you can easily customize it with whatever vegetables you have on hand. It’s a great way to stretch your grocery budget while still providing a heartwarming meal for the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Easy Hamburger Stew
Pastitsio
Experience the flavors of Greece with this layered pasta dish known as Pastitsio. Often described as a Greek lasagna, this dish features layers of tubular pasta, seasoned ground meat, and a creamy béchamel sauce. The combination of aromatic spices like cinnamon and nutmeg gives it a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from other pasta bakes. When baked, the top forms a golden crust, contrasting beautifully with the creamy layers beneath.
Get the Recipe: Pastitsio
Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos
Bring the flavors of your favorite fast-food joint home with these Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos. Tender, seasoned chicken is paired with fresh vegetables and a tangy sauce, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. These tacos offer a fresher, homemade version of the popular menu item, allowing you to control the ingredients while still enjoying that familiar taste. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or fulfilling late-night cravings without leaving the house.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos
Beef Stroganoff Soup
Transform the classic dish into a comforting bowl of Beef Stroganoff Soup. This soup combines tender strips of beef with mushrooms in a creamy, delicious broth that captures all the flavors of traditional beef stroganoff. The addition of egg noodles makes it a complete meal in a bowl. It’s a clever way to enjoy the flavors of beef stroganoff in a lighter, soup form that’s perfect for cooler weather or when you’re craving something cozy.
Get the Recipe: Beef Stroganoff Soup
Classic Meatballs
Master the art of making Classic Meatballs with this foolproof recipe. These meatballs are made with a perfect blend of ground meats, herbs, and spices, resulting in tender, flavorful bites that are versatile enough to be used in various dishes. Whether you serve them with spaghetti, in a sandwich, or as an appetizer, these meatballs are sure to be a hit. The key to their success lies in the careful mixing and gentle cooking, ensuring they remain moist and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Classic Meatballs
Salmon Gnocchi Bake
Combine the richness of salmon with the comfort of gnocchi in this lovely Salmon Gnocchi Bake. Tender pieces of salmon are mixed with pillowy gnocchi and a creamy sauce, then baked until golden and bubbly. This dish offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors, with the salmon adding a luxurious touch to the comforting gnocchi. It’s an elegant yet easy meal that’s sure to impress, whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Gnocchi Bake
Rice & White Bean Soup
Nourish your body and soul with this wholesome Rice & White Bean Soup. This vegetarian-friendly soup combines the heartiness of white beans with the comforting texture of rice, all swimming in a flavorful broth. Vegetables and herbs add depth and nutrition, making this a well-rounded meal in a bowl. It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on taste or satisfaction, perfect for those looking for a healthy and filling meal.
Get the Recipe: Rice & White Bean Soup
Mexican Chicken Casserole
Spice up your dinner routine with this spicy Mexican Chicken Casserole. Layers of shredded chicken, tortillas, and cheese are combined with a flavorful sauce and baked until hot and bubbly. This casserole captures the essence of Mexican cuisine in an easy-to-prepare dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Top it with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or avocado for an extra burst of flavor and freshness.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Chicken Casserole
Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs
Experience a twist on the popular Mississippi roast with these Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs. The meatballs are slow-cooked in a tangy, delicious sauce made with ranch seasoning and pepperoncini peppers, resulting in tender, flavor-packed bites. The slow cooking process allows the meatballs to absorb all the delicious flavors of the sauce. Serve them over rice, mashed potatoes or as a party appetizer for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to become a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs
Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole
Revisit a timeless comfort food with this Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole. This nostalgic dish combines tender egg noodles with flaky tuna and a creamy sauce, all topped with a crunchy breadcrumb topping. It’s a budget-friendly meal that’s both filling and pleasurable, perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something familiar and comforting. The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity and the way it transforms humble ingredients into a delicious, family-friendly meal.
Get the Recipe: Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole
Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken
Infuse your kitchen with the aromatic spices of Mexico as you prepare this Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken. The chicken is seasoned with a blend of spices and slow-roasted to perfection, resulting in tender, flavorful meat with crispy skin. As it cooks, the chicken releases its juices, creating a self-basting effect that keeps the meat moist and infused with flavor. Serve it with warm tortillas, rice, and beans for an authentic Mexican feast that will transport your palate south of the border.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken
Texas BLT
Take the classic BLT sandwich to new heights with this Texas BLT. This hearty version adds a Southwestern twist to the beloved bacon, lettuce, and tomato combination. The addition of sliced avocado and spicy chipotle mayo brings new dimensions of flavor and texture to the sandwich. Toasted thick-cut bread provides the perfect foundation for the generous fillings. It’s an enjoyable meal that’s perfect for lunch or a quick dinner, offering a taste of Texas in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Texas BLT
Mediterranean Salmon
Bring the flavors of the Mediterranean to your table with this vibrant Mediterranean Salmon dish. The salmon is seasoned with herbs and lemon, then baked to perfection and served with a medley of colorful vegetables. This light yet pleasurable meal is not only delicious but also packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids and nutrients. The combination of flavors and textures makes for an elegant dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Salmon
Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin with Sweet Potatoes & Apples
Create a complete meal with minimal effort using this Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin with Sweet Potatoes & Apples recipe. The pork tenderloin is seasoned and slow-cooked alongside sweet potatoes and apples, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The result is tender, juicy pork complemented by the natural sweetness of the fruits and vegetables. It’s an ideal option for busy days when you want a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin with Sweet Potatoes & Apples
Chicken Cacciatore
Transport your palate to Italy with this rustic Chicken Cacciatore. This “hunter-style” chicken dish is cooked with tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and herbs, creating a rich and flavorful sauce. The chicken becomes tender as it simmers, absorbing all the delicious flavors of the vegetables and aromatics. Serve it over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. This classic Italian dish is perfect for family dinners or when you’re looking to impress guests with a homemade meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cacciatore
Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak
Enjoy the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak in an easy-to-make format with this Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak. Ground beef is seasoned and cooked with onions and peppers, then topped with melty cheese to recreate the beloved sandwich in a more accessible form. This version is perfect for feeding a crowd or for a quick weeknight dinner. Serve it on rolls for a traditional sandwich experience or over rice for a fun twist on the classic.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak
Shipwreck Casserole
Discover a treasure trove of flavors with this hearty Shipwreck Casserole. This layered dish combines ground beef, potatoes, beans, and vegetables, all baked together to create a comforting and filling meal. The name comes from the jumble of ingredients, resembling a delicious “shipwreck” in your casserole dish. As it bakes, the flavors meld together, and the top becomes golden and crispy. It’s a versatile recipe that’s perfect for using up leftovers and can easily be adapted to your family’s tastes.
Get the Recipe: Shipwreck Casserole
