23 dinner in an hour ideas worth keeping handy for busy days
The trick to weeknights is finding meals that don’t ask for more energy than you actually have left. Dinner in an hour ideas tend to fit that criteria pretty well. They get the job done and still leave you with a bit of evening to yourself.
Instant Pot Cuban Chicken and Rice
Citrus garlic mojo chicken meets chicken and rice in this Instant Pot Cuban chicken and rice recipe for a perfect weeknight dinner. It’s ready in under an hour and comes together in one pot. Get the recipe: Instant Pot Cuban Chicken and Rice
Sheet Pan Pizza
This sheet pan pizza is the easiest way to do homemade pizza night, with a crispy crust, melty cheese, and all your favorite toppings in one pan. Minimal prep, big flavor, and perfect for weeknights, game days, or feeding a crowd. Get the recipe: Sheet Pan Pizza
BBQ Chicken Pasta
This baked BBQ chicken pasta is cheesy, comforting, and made with ingredients you probably already have on hand. The combo of chicken and pasta with a creamy BBQ sauce makes for a meal that always hits the spot. Get the recipe: BBQ Chicken Pasta
Taco Beef Salad
Who doesn’t love a good taco salad? This recipe is quick and easy, budget-friendly, and perfect to customize with all your favourite toppings for those picky eaters. Get the Recipe: 30-Minute Taco Salad
Creamy Tomato Pasta
This creamy tomato pasta is rich, smooth, and perfect for a fast, budget-friendly meal. It’s easy to make and tastes like a little effort went a long way. Get the recipe: Creamy Tomato Pasta
Spicy Sesame Ground Beef and Rice
This sweet and spicy ground beef and rice is a quick and easy dinner option that’s perfect for busy nights. With minimal effort, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in no time. Get the recipe: Sweet and Spicy Beef Bowls
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bake
This creamy, cheesy chicken broccoli bake is an easy way to enjoy a wholesome, satisfying meal. Using shredded rotisserie chicken makes this comforting casserole a breeze to prepare. Get the recipe: Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bake
Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
This ground beef pasta feels like it’s been simmered for hours, but it’s actually ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, it comes together with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Get the recipe: Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
Chicken Enchilada Bake
Mexican-style rice is so popular, why not turn it into a full meal? This chicken enchilada bake uses whole-grain rice and leftover chicken for a nutritious twist, making it a great option that the whole family will gobble up. Get the recipe: Chicken Enchilada Bake
One Pot Rice With Pork And Veggies
A balanced meal includes protein, carbohydrates, vegetables, and healthy fats, and this pork and rice recipe checks every box. It’s easy to make, and even better, it’s a simple way to get kids to eat more vegetables without any complaints. Get the recipe: One Pot Rice With Pork And Veggies
Asian Steak Salad
This Asian steak salad brings together juicy steak, fresh herbs, and a tangy dressing in the best way. Every bite is bold, bright, and seriously satisfying. Get the recipe: Asian Steak Salad
Easy Salmon Burger Recipe
These easy salmon burgers use simple ingredients and come together in no time. The Cajun seasoning gives them a nice kick, and the lemon garlic mayo takes them over the top. Ready in about 20 minutes, they’re perfect for a quick, flavorful meal. Get the recipe: Easy Salmon Burger Recipe
Blackened Fish Tacos
These blackened fish tacos are quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Tender, flaky cod gets a perfectly charred crust and pairs beautifully with a spicy jalapeño slaw. Get the recipe: Blackened Fish Tacos
Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
This super easy unstuffed cabbage rolls recipe is a cozy, homestyle meal with a touch of Central European flair. All the flavor of traditional cabbage rolls, but way less work. Get the recipe: Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
One Pot Italian Sausage Pasta
This one-pot Italian sausage pasta keeps cleanup easy and is a meal the whole family will devour! The meaty tomato sauce comes together quickly and tastes like it simmered all day. Get the Recipe: One Pot Italian Sausage Pasta
Cheesy Baked Meatballs
Easy to make and packed with melty cheese, these baked meatballs are pure comfort food. Bursting with classic Italian-American flavors, they’re perfect served over spaghetti. Get the recipe: Cheesy Baked Meatballs
Easy Air Fryer Chicken Pot Pie
You’ll fall for this easy Air Fryer chicken pot pie with a Chinese twist. Juicy chicken and veggies are tucked into a flaky, golden crust, and you can make it in individual servings or one big pie. Get the recipe: Easy Air Fryer Chicken Pot Pie
Boursin Pork Tenderloin
This 30-minute Boursin pork tenderloin is an easy way to elevate weeknight dinner. The pork is super tender, and the creamy herb sauce makes it feel extra special. Get the recipe: Boursin Pork Tenderloin
Crispy Pineapple Chicken
This pineapple chicken features crispy bites tossed in a sweet and tangy pineapple sauce. It’s a guaranteed crowd pleaser with bold, takeout-style flavor made right at home. Get the recipe: Crispy Pineapple Chicken
One Pot Cajun Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo
This one pot Cajun chicken and broccoli Alfredo is creamy and indulgent. Tender spiced chicken, blackened broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta all come together in a rich Alfredo sauce. It’s an easy weeknight meal that’s ready in about an hour. Get the Recipe: One Pot Cajun Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo
Tomato Egg Stir Fry
Craving a quick, tasty meal? This tomato egg stir-fry delivers. Sweet tomatoes and perfectly fried eggs come together in a dish that’s perfect for beginners and busy nights.
Get the recipe: Tomato Egg Stir Fry
Easy Beef and Noodles
This simple beef and noodles recipe is a classic comfort favorite! Ready in just 30 minutes using pantry staples, the rich gravy is the kind of treat you’ll want on repeat.
Get the recipe: Easy Beef and Noodles
Cottage Cheese Turkey Baked Ziti
Nothing beats a delicious bowl of cheesy baked pasta casserole. This cottage cheese baked ziti combines comfort food with protein-rich ingredients to deliver over 40 grams of protein per serving. Get the recipe: Cottage Cheese Baked Ziti