Weeknight Dinners Just Got a Whole Lot Easier With These 17 Recipes

Tired of the weeknight dinner scramble? You’re not alone. Getting something delicious on the table without a lot of fuss is like hitting the jackpot. With a set of 17 go-to recipes, you can breathe easy knowing that a home-cooked meal doesn’t mean hours in the kitchen. These are about cutting corners in the best way — getting you to that first bite quicker.

A plate of porcupine meatballs covered in tomato sauce and garnished with fresh basil.
Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

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.

If you’ve got steak leftovers, whip up some Leftover Steak Soft Tacos. This dish turns yesterday’s dinner into today’s treat just by adding fresh tortillas and your favorite toppings. It’s quick, it’s satisfying, and it keeps food waste to a minimum—perfect for a busy weeknight.
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.

Craving something crunchy and cheesy? Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots brings the flavor of your favorite pizza place right into your kitchen. It’s a fun side dish that’s easy to whip up and sure to be a hit with the family. No need for delivery tonight!
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

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.

When you need something light yet fulfilling, Easy Salmon Pasta Salad is your go-to. It mixes flaked salmon with pasta and fresh veggies for a meal that’s hearty without being heavy. Plus, it’s great for a quick lunch with the leftovers—if there are any!
Get the Recipe: Easy Salmon Pasta Salad

Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

A tray of loaded tater tots topped with Alfredo sauce, scallions, and green onions on a wooden table next to plates and utensils.
Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

For a twist on tots, try this delicious and easy Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots. It combines the bold flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with crispy tater tots for a unique take on two classics. Fast and flavorful, this dish will liven up any evening.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

Wild Rice Salad

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

Wild Rice Salad is a simple yet delicious option that’s perfect for a side or a light dinner. It pairs well with virtually any protein and can be made ahead of time, making your dinner plans that much easier. Just toss everything together and you’re good to go.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Salad

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

A plate of Copycat Roadhouse beef tips with gravy over mashed potatoes, garnished with sliced mushrooms and chopped chives.
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Treat yourself to the hearty flavors of this Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips. This recipe brings the steakhouse vibe to your dining table without the steakhouse wait. It’s quick to put together and pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or rice. Even the pickiest eaters will love it!
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

California Eggs Benedict

Eggs benedict with ham and avocado on an English muffin served on a black plate.
California Eggs Benedict. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Switch up your breakfast-for-dinner routine with California Eggs Benedict. This version adds some West Coast flair with avocado and tomato, making it a fresh take on the classic. It’s surprisingly simple to make and always impressive, great for surprising everyone around the table.
Get the Recipe: California Eggs Benedict

Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers

A plate of Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers sprinkled with chopped herbs.
Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Bring a little Italian flair to your table with this Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers. This dish is packed with flavor and goes great with a side of pasta or crusty bread. It’s a straightforward way to spice up dinner and an amazing way to impress.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers

Pizza Pasta Salad

A platter of pizza pasta salad served on a white rectangular dish.
Pizza Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

It is as fun to eat as it sounds. Pizza Pasta Salad combines all your favorite pizza toppings with pasta for a dish that’s a hit at any family meal or gathering. It’s quick to assemble and endlessly customizable. No need to dial delivery and that extra grease.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pasta Salad

Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Two bowls of Copycat Carrabba's Mama Mandola's Sicilian Chicken Soup, accompanied by two spoons, a black pepper grinder, and a napkin.
Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

A soup that’s both comforting and hearty is Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup. It’s filled with rich flavors and soothing broth, making it perfect for a chilly evening. Plus, it’s almost as good as a trip to Sicily without the need to purchase a plane ticket.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Cucumber Salad with Feta

Cucumber and Feta salad in a black bowl.
Cucumber Salad with Feta. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

The refreshing side dish you didn’t know you needed is this Cucumber Salad with Feta. It’s super quick to throw together, and the crispness of cucumber paired with the creaminess of feta is a real treat. Great for those nights when you want something light and fast.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad with Feta

Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup

Two bowls of Copycat Jason's Deli Irish Potato Soup on a wooden table.
Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Warm up with a bowl of Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup. This creamy, comforting soup is amazing for a cold day, and it’s filling enough to stand on its own. A true “set it and forget it” recipe that’s waiting for you when you get home. What’s not to love?
Get the Recipe: Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup

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 Heather.

Need a nourishing meal for your soul and body? This Chinese Chicken Salad offers a crunchy, flavorful break from the usual dinner routine. It’s packed with veggies and protein, and the Asian-inspired dressing is both tangy and sweet. Change things up tonight with this lighter option.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken 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 Heather.

Looking for a quick breakfast or snack? Cottage Cheese Toast with Blueberries is your answer. Just spread cottage cheese on toast, top with blueberries, and drizzle a bit of honey. It’s nutritious, satisfying, and ready in minutes. It’s ideal when you don’t have a lot of time to spare.
Get the Recipe: Cottage Cheese Toast with Blueberries

Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

A plate of porcupine meatballs covered in tomato sauce and garnished with fresh basil.
Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Set and forget your dinner with Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs. These meatballs get their unique texture from rice mixed right into the meat, and they simmer in sauce all day for maximum flavor. Just start it in the morning and come home to a hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots

A bowl of Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots in a bowl.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Add a little sweetness to your dinner with Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots. These carrots are slightly glazed and make the perfect easy side to practically any dish. They’re a simple way to add veggies to your meal without any fuss. Just trust and believe, they’ll disappear in a snap.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots

Diner Style Salisbury Steak

A plate of Salisbury steak with gravy on mashed potatoes, and a side of peas on a white square dish.
Diner Style Salisbury Steak. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Searching for a real diner-inspired meal at home? Diner Style Salisbury Steak is here for you. This comforting classic pairs well with mashed potatoes and green beans to bring that cozy diner feel right into your kitchen. Quick to prepare, it’s comfort food without the wait.
Get the Recipe: Diner Style Salisbury Steak

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