17 Ways To Cook Dinner Faster Than You Can Say “What’s for Dinner?”

Ever find yourself staring blankly into the fridge, hoping dinner will magically appear? The daily struggle of figuring out what to cook and then realizing it needs to be done in record time is all too real. Luckily, there are ways to whip up a delicious meal faster than you can even ask, “What’s for dinner?” No more frantic scrambling or last-minute takeout orders. It’s all about making dinner faster, easier, and a whole lot more fun.

A closeup of Jason's Deli Irish Potato Soup.`
Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Chicken Tinga

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

Dig into the vibrant and bold flavors of Chicken Tinga. This dish is known for its rich, smoky essence that turns dinner into a festive affair. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something quick yet bursting with flavor. This dish promises to transport you straight to the heart of vibrant culinary traditions.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga

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.

Experience the ultimate in simplicity and taste with Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter. This dish pairs beautifully with any side and is ready in minutes, making it a go-to for a fast, upscale dinner. The cowboy butter adds a luxurious, flavorful finish that enhances every bite. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors that make this dish a timeless classic.
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.

Simplify gourmet dining with Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu, a dish that offers elegance without the fuss. This recipe brings together delightful flavors in a fraction of the usual time, thanks to the air fryer’s efficiency. It’s perfect for a quick dinner that looks and tastes like it took all day to prepare. Serve this up for a meal that’s sure to impress any diner.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

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.

Bring the flavors of Korean barbecue to your table with Korean Galbi Ribs. It’s perfect for a flavorful dinner that breaks the monotony of weeknight meals. Enjoy the fusion of taste and convenience that this dish offers. It’s a culinary trip to Korea without the travel time.
Get the Recipe: Korean Galbi Ribs

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.

Whisk yourself away to Italy with Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce, a light and quick dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor. This meal is a wonderful option for those seeking a speedy yet satisfying dinner. It combines the freshness of cherry tomatoes with the comforting warmth of pasta. This dish is a fresh and quick spin on traditional pasta.
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce

Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken in a bowl with a bowl of rice in the background.
Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Enjoy the thrill of takeout from the comfort of your home with Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken. This quick and easy dish replicates your favorite flavors with a zest that rivals the original. It’s perfect for a fast-paced dinner that delivers on both taste and convenience. Ideal for those evenings when you crave something spicy and satisfying without the wait.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao 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.

Rekindle classic flavors with Turkey à la King, a dish that’s both comforting and quick to prepare. This recipe is ideal for using up leftovers and transforming them into a creamy, unforgettable dinner. It’s perfect for a hassle-free meal that feels both gourmet and familiar. Serve this on any busy night to bring comfort and joy to your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Turkey à la King

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 Heather.

Bring the classic diner experience home with Diner Style Salisbury Steak. This dish is a quick and hearty option that’s always satisfying. It’s perfect for replicating that quintessential diner vibe, complete with all the comforts of homemade. Ideal for a fulfilling meal that’s ready before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Diner Style Salisbury Steak

Brisket Fried Rice

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

Turn leftovers into a culinary treat with Brisket Fried Rice. This quick and easy dish breathes new life into brisket, pairing it with the satisfying texture of fried rice. It’s perfect for a fast and flavorful meal that uses up ingredients you already have. Ideal for a last-minute dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Get the Recipe: Brisket Fried Rice

Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup

A closeup of Jason's Deli Irish Potato Soup.`
Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

For a quick meal, nothing beats the warm comfort of Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup. It’s perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something soothing yet quick to prepare. This dish brings a taste of your favorite deli right into your kitchen, effortlessly. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking to whip up dinner without spending hours at the stove.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup

Leftover Steak Quesadilla

A hand holding wedges of a quesadilla.
Leftover Steak Quesadilla. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Leftover Steak Quesadilla turns last night’s meal into today’s delight. It’s an ideal solution for transforming leftovers into something new and exciting. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also packs a flavorful punch that’s sure to satisfy. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner and saves you from wasting food.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Quesadilla

Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

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

When time is of the essence, Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich offers a fresh and delicious option. This meal combines the classic flavors in a way that feels both gourmet and quick to prepare. It’s perfect for a busy day when you want a satisfying meal without the long wait. Whether it’s lunch or dinner, this sandwich is ready to serve in no time.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

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 Heather.

Easy Salmon Pasta Salad is a go-to for a nutritious meal that comes together in no time. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking for something light yet fulfilling. This dish is particularly appealing for its ease of preparation and wholesome goodness. It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, making it ideal for a busy weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Easy Salmon Pasta Salad

Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

A bowl of olive garden creamy shrimp alfredo pasta served in a black bowl with a spoon.
Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Indulge in the creamy, rich flavors of Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo without the wait. This dish brings the restaurant experience home, offering a luxurious meal. It’s perfect for those evenings when you crave something decadent yet easy to prepare. Enjoy a restaurant-quality dinner that’s ready in just a fraction of the time.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

Cuban Sandwich Casserole

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

Cuban Sandwich Casserole is your shortcut to a flavorful, hearty meal that everyone will love. This dish takes the classic elements of a Cuban sandwich and turns them into a casserole that’s both satisfying and quick to make. It’s ideal for a family dinner or a gathering with friends where time is limited. Get ready to savor the rich, bold flavors with minimal prep time.
Get the Recipe: Cuban Sandwich Casserole

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 Heather.

Turn last night’s steak into today’s tasty meal with Leftover Steak Soft Tacos. This quick dish breathes new life into leftovers, making them exciting and flavorful. It’s perfect for a no-fuss dinner that’s both satisfying and economical. Whip these up for a fast meal that feels like a treat.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Soft Tacos

Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

A tray of cheddar bacon loaded tater tots, drizzled with Alfredo sauce, with a hand-picking one up.
Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

When you’re in a hurry but craving something comforting, Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots comes to the rescue. This dish is a favorite for its quick prep time and delicious results. It’s perfect for those evenings when you need a satisfying meal without the long wait.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

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