15+ Quick and Easy Dinner Recipes for Family That Everyone Will Love

15+ Quick and Easy Dinner Recipes for Family That Everyone Will Love

Finding time to prepare dinner for your family can be challenging, especially on busy nights. Quick and easy dinner recipes can help you get a tasty meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen.

A bustling kitchen with pots bubbling on the stove, fresh ingredients on the counter, and a family eagerly gathering around the table

With a little creativity and some simple ingredients, you can whip up dishes that everyone will enjoy. These recipes are designed to be quick to make while still being healthy and satisfying for your family.

1) Chicken Goujons

A table set with a colorful array of chicken goujons, accompanied by various dipping sauces and sides, surrounded by a family eagerly reaching for the delicious meal

Chicken goujons are a tasty and easy dinner option for your family. They are made from tender chicken breast, coated in crispy crumbs. This dish is perfect for kids and adults alike.

You can serve these goujons with a variety of sides like fries or salad. They also work great in wraps. You can have dinner ready in just 30 minutes!

Ingredients

  • 2 chicken breasts
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup flour
  • 2 eggs
  • Salt and pepper
  • Cooking oil spray

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Cut the chicken breasts into strips.
  3. Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko mixed with salt and pepper.
  4. Dip each chicken strip first in flour, then in egg, and finally in panko.
  5. Place the coated strips on a baking sheet.
  6. Lightly spray with cooking oil.
  7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until golden and cooked through. Enjoy!

2) Leek and Potato Soup

A pot of leek and potato soup simmering on a stovetop, surrounded by fresh vegetables and herbs

Leek and potato soup is a warm and comforting dish that’s simple to make. It combines soft potatoes and tender leeks to create a creamy texture. This soup is perfect for a quick dinner that the whole family will enjoy.

To start, you will need some butter to sauté the leeks. Once they are soft, add diced potatoes and broth. You can use chicken or vegetable broth based on your preference. Simmer everything until the potatoes are tender.

After cooking, blend the mixture until smooth for that creamy finish. Season it with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy a delicious bowl of comfort food!

Ingredients

  • 2 leeks, cleaned and sliced
  • 4 cups (about 600g) Yukon Gold potatoes, diced
  • 1 cup (about 230g) butter
  • 1 quart (about 950ml) chicken or vegetable broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Melt butter in a pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the sliced leeks and cook until soft.
  3. Stir in the diced potatoes.
  4. Add broth and bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender.
  6. Blend the soup until smooth.
  7. Season with salt and pepper, then serve hot.

3) Broccoli and Stilton Soup

A steaming pot of broccoli and Stilton soup surrounded by fresh vegetables and a loaf of crusty bread on a rustic kitchen table

Broccoli and Stilton soup is a comforting dish that is both easy and quick to prepare. This soup is perfect for a family dinner and can be ready in about 40 minutes. You’ll enjoy a creamy and flavorful blend of broccoli and Stilton cheese.

To make this dish, start by gathering fresh broccoli and your favorite Stilton cheese. Using just a few ingredients, you’ll create a healthy and satisfying meal. It works great as a light dinner or even a lunch option.

Ingredients

  • 1 head of broccoli, chopped
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 4 cups (950 mL) vegetable broth
  • 1 cup (240 mL) Stilton cheese, crumbled
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a large pot, sauté the onion in a bit of oil over medium heat until softened.
  2. Add the broccoli, potatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
  3. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
  4. Blend the soup until smooth, then stir in the Stilton cheese.
  5. Season with salt and pepper, then serve warm.

4) Potato Wedges

Golden potato wedges arranged on a rustic wooden platter with a side of ketchup and a sprinkle of fresh parsley

Potato wedges are a delicious and simple side dish that your family will love. They are easy to prepare and can be seasoned to fit your taste. Plus, they’re baked, making them a healthier option than fries.

To start, you’ll need to wash and cut your potatoes into wedges. Toss them in olive oil and your favorite spices. You can use garlic, onion powder, and even parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Bake the wedges at 425°F (220°C) until they are crispy on the outside and tender inside. This usually takes about 25 to 30 minutes.

Ingredients

  • 4 large russet potatoes
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic or 3 teaspoons garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Wash and cut potatoes into wedges.
  3. In a bowl, mix the potatoes with olive oil and spices.
  4. Spread the wedges on a baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until crispy.

5) Tandoori Chicken

A family dinner table with a spread of tandoori chicken, rice, and vegetables, with warm lighting and happy faces

Tandoori chicken is a flavorful dish that’s quick to make and loved by many. The chicken is marinated in yogurt and spices, giving it a tender texture and a delicious taste. You can cook it in the oven or on the grill.

To get started, mix yogurt with tandoori spices. You can find a recipe that’s easy, like the one from Simply Delicious Food. Marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes. This step makes it juicy and full of flavor.

For cooking, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or grill your chicken on medium-high heat. It cooks in about 25 minutes, ensuring a tasty dinner for your family.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound chicken pieces
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons tandoori masala
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix yogurt, tandoori masala, lemon juice, and salt.
  2. Add chicken and coat it well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  4. Place chicken on a baking sheet and cook for about 25 minutes.
  5. Serve hot and enjoy!

6) Zucchini Slice

A table set with ingredients for zucchini slice, surrounded by family dinnerware

Zucchini slice is a quick and easy dish perfect for dinner. It combines tasty ingredients and can be served warm or cold. This makes it a great choice for family meals or packed lunches.

To make this dish, you will need a few simple ingredients. It only takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook. Kids love its cheesy flavor and hidden veggies.

You can enjoy zucchini slice as is or pair it with a salad for a complete meal. It’s versatile and can be made ahead.

Ingredients

  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 cup flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 150 g onion, chopped
  • 1 cup grated cheese

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix the eggs, flour, and baking powder.
  3. Add chopped onion and grated cheese.
  4. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
  5. Bake for 30 minutes or until set.
  6. Allow to cool slightly, then slice and serve.

7) Cheesy Noodles

A steaming pot of cheesy noodles surrounded by colorful vegetables and a family of four eagerly gathered around the dinner table

Cheesy noodles are a simple and comforting dish that your whole family will enjoy. They are quick to prepare and can be a great side or main dish. You can make them with various types of noodles, like egg noodles or macaroni.

The basic idea is to combine cooked noodles with butter and cheese. This gives the dish a smooth, creamy texture. You can add garlic for extra flavor, which makes this dish even more delicious.

Ingredients

  • 10 ounces of noodles (egg noodles, penne, or macaroni)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (like cheddar)
  • Salt to taste
  • Garlic (optional)

Cooking Instructions

  1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente.
  2. Drain the noodles and return them to the pot.
  3. Add butter and let it melt.
  4. Stir in the cheese until melted and smooth.
  5. Season with salt and optional garlic. Mix well and serve hot.

8) Slow Cooker Chili

A slow cooker filled with hearty chili surrounded by fresh vegetables and spices

Slow cooker chili is a perfect choice for a quick and easy family dinner. It combines ground beef, beans, and spices for a hearty meal that everyone will enjoy. You can prepare it in just a little time before letting it cook.

Start by browning the ground beef in a pan. Then, add your favorite beans, diced tomatoes, and chili seasoning to the slow cooker.

Set your slow cooker on low for about 6 to 8 hours. This allows the flavors to blend nicely.

Serve with chili toppings like cheese or sour cream for added flavor. It’s cozy and filling, great for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 can kidney beans
  • 1 can black beans
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet.
  2. Drain any excess fat.
  3. In the slow cooker, combine beef, beans, diced tomatoes, and spices.
  4. Stir well and cover.
  5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
  6. Serve with toppings as desired.

9) Lemon Chicken Stir-Fry

A sizzling skillet filled with colorful vegetables, tender pieces of lemon-infused chicken, and a savory sauce, ready to be served for a family dinner

Lemon chicken stir-fry is a quick and tasty dinner option for your family. It combines fresh vegetables and tender chicken, all coated in a zesty lemon sauce.

You can prepare this dish in less than 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights. Just gather your ingredients and get cooking!

Ingredients

  • 2 chicken breasts, cut into pieces
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 lemons, juiced
  • 1 teaspoon cornflour
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 150ml chicken stock
  • 2 teaspoons honey

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, lemon juice, cornflour, and honey.
  2. Heat the oil in a pan over medium-high heat (about 350°F or 180°C).
  3. Add the chicken to the pan and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Stir in the carrots and chicken stock. Cook for another 5 minutes.
  5. Serve it hot with rice or noodles. Enjoy!

10) Veggie Garlic Noodles

A colorful array of fresh vegetables and aromatic garlic noodles sizzling in a wok, surrounded by family dinnerware

Veggie garlic noodles are a quick and tasty option for dinner. They are easy to make and full of flavor. You can have this dish ready in just 20 minutes.

Start by cooking your favorite noodles. While they boil, sauté garlic in sesame oil. Add the vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli.

Then, toss everything together with soy sauce for a delicious sauce.

You can serve these noodles with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or green onions for extra flavor. This meal is great for busy nights when you want something satisfying without a lot of fuss.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz noodles (spaghetti or any type you prefer)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp sesame oil
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (like bell peppers and broccoli)
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • Optional: sesame seeds, green onions

Cooking Instructions

  1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions.
  2. In a pan, heat sesame oil over medium heat.
  3. Add minced garlic and sauté until golden brown.
  4. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes.
  5. Mix in cooked noodles and soy sauce, tossing to combine.
  6. Serve hot, topped with sesame seeds or green onions if desired.

11) Grilled Shrimp Skewers

A sizzling grill with shrimp skewers, surrounded by colorful vegetables and a warm, inviting atmosphere

Grilled shrimp skewers are a tasty and quick dinner option for your family. They are easy to prepare and cook in just a few minutes. You can enjoy them as a main dish or appetizer.

To make these skewers, marinate your shrimp in a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. Then, skewer them and grill until they’re pink and cooked through. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes on a preheated grill at 400°F (200°C).

You can serve these skewers with a side salad or rice for a complete meal. They’re perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Skewers

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add the shrimp and mix well. Let marinate for 15-30 minutes.
  3. Preheat the grill to 400°F (200°C).
  4. Skewer the shrimp on sticks.
  5. Grill for 6-8 minutes, turning halfway, until cooked through.

12) Spaghetti Bolognese

A steaming plate of spaghetti Bolognese, surrounded by fresh ingredients and cooking utensils on a kitchen counter

Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic dish that is both quick and satisfying. You can make it in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights. The rich meat sauce pairs beautifully with spaghetti.

Start by cooking your pasta. In another pan, brown some ground beef with onions and garlic. Then, add canned tomatoes and let it simmer for a few minutes.

Season with salt, pepper, and herbs like oregano or basil. Toss the spaghetti with the sauce and serve with grated cheese on top. It’s a family favorite!

Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces (225g) spaghetti
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 14 ounces (400g) canned tomatoes
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Oregano or basil, to taste
  • Grated cheese, for serving

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
  2. In a large pan, brown ground beef, onion, and garlic.
  3. Add canned tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
  5. Toss spaghetti with sauce and serve with cheese.

13) Lasagna

A bubbling pan of lasagna surrounded by fresh ingredients and a family gathered around the dinner table

Lasagna is a classic dish that’s perfect for family dinners. It has layers of pasta, meat sauce, and cheese, creating a comforting meal everyone loves.

You can easily make lasagna ahead of time. It’s also freezer-friendly, so you can enjoy it later. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite ingredients.

Ingredients

  • 12 lasagna noodles
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef
  • 2 cups (480ml) marinara sauce
  • 1 cup (250g) ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Italian seasoning (optional)

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions.
  3. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
  4. Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer.
  5. In a bowl, mix ricotta, egg, salt, and pepper.
  6. Spread a layer of meat sauce in a baking dish.
  7. Add noodles, then ricotta mixture, and mozzarella.
  8. Repeat layers, finishing with mozzarella on top.
  9. Bake for 30-40 minutes until bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving.

14) Pasta with Simple Tomato Sauce

A pot of boiling pasta with a simple tomato sauce simmering on the stove, surrounded by fresh basil and garlic cloves

Pasta with simple tomato sauce is a quick and delicious dinner option. You can prepare it in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights. This dish is light, flavorful, and sure to please your family.

Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan and add chopped onion and crushed garlic.

Sauté until the onion is soft and fragrant.

Next, add canned diced tomatoes and a bit of tomato paste for added flavor. Let the sauce simmer while the pasta finishes cooking. Once the pasta is done, drain it and mix it with the sauce.

Feel free to top it with grated cheese or fresh herbs for an extra touch!

Ingredients

  • 8 oz pasta of your choice
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 brown onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 1 (800g) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions.
  2. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  3. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until soft.
  4. Stir in diced tomatoes and tomato paste.
  5. Simmer the sauce while pasta cooks.
  6. Drain pasta and combine it with the sauce.
  7. Serve hot, topped with cheese or herbs if desired.

15) Twice Baked Potatoes

A kitchen counter with ingredients like potatoes, cheese, and bacon. A mixing bowl, a baking sheet, and a cutting board with a knife

Twice baked potatoes are a delicious and filling meal that your family will love. They are easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite toppings. Fluffy mashed potatoes meet crispy skins for a satisfying dish.

To make these, start by baking large potatoes until they are tender. Afterward, scoop out the insides.

Mix the potato with milk, butter, cheese, and any other toppings you enjoy, like bacon or green onions.

Then, refill the potato skins and bake again. This gives them a delightful crispy texture.

Ingredients

  • 4 large baking potatoes
  • 4 tablespoons milk
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Optional: cooked bacon, green onions

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Prick each potato with a fork and place them on a baking sheet.
  3. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes until tender.
  4. Let them cool slightly, then scoop out the insides.
  5. Mix the potato with milk, butter, cheese, and seasoning.
  6. Refill the potato skins with the mixture and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes.

Similar Posts