Struggling to find quick and easy dinner ideas for those hectic weeknights? Between homework, sports practice, and keeping the little ones entertained, it’s no wonder dinner feels like the last thing on your mind!
As a mom of a big family, I get it. That’s why I’ve rounded up these 35 weeknight supper ideas—fast, simple, and family-approved.
Whether you need a one-pot wonder, a slow-cooker classic, or a creamy pasta dish, you’ll find practical and delicious recipes here to make dinnertime easier. Let’s take the stress out of supper and bring the focus back to what matters—family.
Our Favorite Easy Weeknight Dinner Ideas
If you’re looking for the best of the best, these are popular weeknight dinner recipes that we think your family will love:
Best Pasta Recipe: Spaghetti Carbonara – A rich and savory dish that’s ready in under 20 minutes and always a crowd-pleaser.
Best Casserole Recipe: Beef Taco Casserole – A fun twist on taco night, with all the flavors of a taco in one easy-to-make casserole.
Best One-Pot Meal: One-Pot Beef Stroganoff – Creamy, savory, and perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Best Sheet Pan Dinner: Sheet Pan Garlic Parmesan Salmon – A quick, healthy, and delicious meal that brings restaurant-quality flavors to your kitchen.
Best Slow Cooker Meal: Slow Cooker Pulled Pork – Tender, juicy, and full of BBQ flavor, this recipe is perfect for easy weeknight dinners.
Best Instant Pot Recipe: Instant Pot Butter Chicken – A rich and flavorful dish with minimal effort, bringing bold Indian flavors to your table.
Best 30-Minute Meal: Quick Lemon Garlic Shrimp – This bright and zesty shrimp dish comes together in just 15 minutes, making it a weeknight winner.
Best Soup Recipe: Quick Chicken Noodle Soup – Comforting, classic, and made in no time, this is the ultimate go-to soup for busy families.
These recipes are not just quick and easy—they’re guaranteed to satisfy everyone around the table!
Easy Pasta Recipes
Pasta is a busy mom’s best friend—quick to cook, endlessly versatile, and always a hit with the kids. From creamy Alfredo to zesty pesto, these easy pasta recipes are perfect for weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast but don’t want to sacrifice flavor.
1. Creamy One-Pot Pasta Alfredo
A rich and indulgent fettuccine Alfredo recipe made with a creamy, buttery sauce that coats every strand of pasta perfectly. This one-pot wonder is ready in no time, making it the ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want something simple yet satisfying.
2. Spaghetti Carbonara
This classic Italian pasta combines crispy bacon, creamy eggs, and a touch of Parmesan for a rich and flavorful main dish. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick and comforting.
3. Cheesy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Tender pasta shells stuffed with a creamy spinach and ricotta filling, smothered in marinara and baked to perfection. This family favorite delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.
4. Penne with Pesto and Veggies
This recipe features penne pasta tossed with a variety of sautéed vegetables and a flavorful pesto sauce, making it a perfect weeknight meal. This dish combines the richness of pesto with the freshness of seasonal vegetables, offering a satisfying and wholesome dinner option.
Quick & Easy Casserole Recipes
Casseroles are the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights—warm, hearty, and packed with flavor. These one-dish wonders are perfect for feeding a crowd or sneaking in leftovers, with minimal prep and cleanup required.
Whether you’re craving something cheesy, meaty, or loaded with veggies, these casserole recipes are here to save the day.
1. Chicken and Broccoli Rice Casserole
This cheesy casserole combines tender chicken, broccoli, and rice in a creamy, flavorful dish. It’s a quick and hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something everyone will love.
2. Beef Taco Casserole
This Beef Taco Casserole is a hearty, flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Layered with seasoned beef, refried beans, salsa, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can be customized with your favorite taco toppings.
3. Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole
This comforting dish combines tender egg noodles, canned tuna, and peas in a creamy, cheesy sauce, all baked to perfection with a crispy breadcrumb topping. It’s a quick and budget-friendly meal that’s sure to please the whole family.
4. Easy Bacon Egg and Hashbrown Casserole
This Easy Bacon, Egg, and Hashbrown Casserole from Cuts Food is the ultimate comfort meal for breakfast or dinner. Loaded with crispy bacon, golden hashbrowns, and fluffy eggs, it’s a hearty, one-dish wonder that’s perfect for feeding a hungry family.
Fast One-Pot Meals
One-pot meals are the ultimate time-savers for busy families, offering delicious, hearty dishes with minimal cleanup. Whether you’re tackling a chaotic weeknight or just craving simplicity, these recipes deliver big flavors with little effort, making dinnertime stress-free and satisfying.
1. One-Pot Chili Mac
This One-Pot Chili Mac and Cheese from Belly Full is a warm, hearty dinner perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with ground beef, tender pasta, and a cheesy chili twist, it’s a quick, kid-approved meal that leaves only one pot to clean—mom win!
2. Chicken and Rice
The Best Ever Chicken and Rice Casserole from The Cookin’ Chicks is a comforting classic that’s both easy to make and loved by the whole family. With tender chicken, creamy rice, and a rich flavor, it’s a one-pot wonder perfect for those busy nights when you need something hearty and simple.
3. Beef Stroganoff
This Ground Beef Stroganoff from An Organized Chaos is a very quick dinner and satisfying dinner option, creamy and comforting in every bite. While it’s not quite as good as our family recipe (which Toot’s asks for every year on his birthday), it’s a close second—don’t worry, I’ll get my recipe up on the blog soon!
Simple Sheet Pan Dinners
Sheet pan dinners are every busy mom’s best friend—minimal prep, easy cleanup, and big, bold flavors all in one pan. Perfect for weeknights when time is tight, these meals let the oven do the work while you focus on what matters most—your family.
1. Sausage and Veggies
This Maple Dijon Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner from Krystel’s Cooking is a sweet and savory masterpiece that’s as easy as it is delicious. With roasted sausage, vibrant veggies, and a drizzle of maple Dijon glaze, it’s a wholesome meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
2.Chicken Fajitas
These Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas from Better Home Base are a quick and flavorful way to bring a Tex-Mex favorite to your dinner table. With tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and a zesty seasoning blend, this dish is easy to prep and perfect for a family taco night.
3. BBQ Chicken Thighs
This Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Dinner from 12 Tomatoes is a smoky, savory meal that’s as simple as it is satisfying. With juicy BBQ chicken, tender potatoes, and crisp veggies, it’s a complete dinner that bakes to perfection on one pan.
4. Garlic Butter Salmon
This Garlic Butter Salmon Sheet Pan Dinner from Jo Cooks is the perfect recipe for a healthy, flavorful meal that’s ready in no time. With flaky salmon, roasted veggies, and a rich garlic butter sauce, it’s an easy weeknight dinner that feels a little fancy!
Easy Slow Cooker Meals
Slow cooker meals are a lifesaver for busy moms—just toss in the ingredients, set it, and forget it! These easy dinner recipes are perfect for days when you’re juggling a million things but still want a warm, hearty dinner waiting for your family at the end of the day.
1. Beef Stew
This Slow Cooker Beef Stew from Kitchen Fun with My 3 Sons is the ultimate comfort food, packed with tender beef, hearty veggies, and a rich, savory broth. It’s an easy, set-it-and-forget-it meal that’s perfect for cozy family dinners on chilly nights.
2. Chicken Tacos
These Crockpot Chicken Tacos from The Novice Chef are a busy mom’s dream—simple, flavorful, and endlessly versatile. With tender, shredded chicken cooked to perfection in the slow cooker, they’re perfect for taco night or any meal that needs a delicious twist!
3. Pot Roast
This Slow Cooker Pot Roast from Andianne is a comforting classic that’s pretty similar to my mom’s recipe—just without the cabbage and string beans she always adds. I’ll get her version up on the blog soon, but in the meantime, this one is a hearty, flavorful option for a cozy family dinner.
4. Pulled Pork
This Crockpot Pulled Pork from The Savvy Mama is a tender, juicy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. Serve it on buns, over rice, or alongside your favorite sides for a simple, crowd-pleasing meal.
Instant Pot Recipes
Instant Pot recipes are a game-changer for busy moms, making it easy to whip up delicious, home-cooked meals in a fraction of the time. While I don’t have an Instant Pot yet (it’s definitely on my wish list!), I’ve rounded up some amazing recipes to inspire you—and maybe convince me to finally take the plunge!
1. Butter Chicken
This Instant Pot Butter Chicken from The Almond Eater is a creamy, flavorful dish that brings the taste of your favorite Indian takeout to your own kitchen. With tender chicken in a rich, spiced tomato sauce, it’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy nights.
2. Spaghetti and Meatballs
This Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs from Dinner Then Dessert is a one-pot wonder that’s both comforting and convenient. With tender meatballs, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, it’s a classic family favorite made even easier.
3. Beef Chili
This Instant Pot Classic Beef Chili from Old House to New Home is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for chilly evenings. Packed with ground beef, beans, and a tasty blend of spices, it’s a quick and comforting meal that’s sure to warm up the whole family.
4. Chicken and Dumplings
This Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings from Flavor Mosaic is a comforting, creamy classic made even easier with the Instant Pot. With tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich broth, it’s the perfect meal for cozy nights at home.
5. Mac and Cheese
This Instant Pot Mac and Cheese from Lemon Blossoms is the ultimate comfort food made quick and easy. With creamy, cheesy goodness ready in minutes, it’s a kid-approved meal perfect for busy nights or indulgent side dishes.
Easy 30-Minute Meals
When life gets busy and time is tight, 30-minute meals are a lifesaver for getting a delicious dinner on the table fast. These quick and easy recipes are perfect for busy moms who want to serve something homemade without sacrificing flavor or family time.
1. Quick Stir-Fry with Frozen Veggies
This Chicken Stir Fry from The Almond Eater is a colorful, flavorful dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Packed with tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a savory sauce, it’s a quick and healthy dinner the whole family will love.
2. Turkey Sloppy Joes
These Ground Turkey Sloppy Joes from The Schmidty Wife are a lighter twist on the classic comfort food. Made with a tangy, flavorful sauce and ready in just 30 minutes, they’re a quick and satisfying dinner for busy weeknights.
3. Lemon Garlic Shrimp
This Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp from Wholesome Yum is a simple, elegant dish that’s bursting with fresh flavor. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an easy way to impress guests.
4. Chicken Parmesan
This Chicken Parmesan from Valentina’s Corner is a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful classic that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Perfectly breaded chicken topped with marinara and gooey cheese makes it a comforting meal your family will ask for again and again.
Quick Soup Recipes
When the weather turns chilly or you’re craving something warm and comforting, quick soups are the perfect answer. These recipes come together in no time flat, delivering big flavors and hearty bowls that feel like a hug in a meal—even on your busiest days.
1. Chicken Noodle Soup
This Easy Chicken Noodle Soup from Kitchen Momy is a cozy, comforting classic that’s perfect for busy nights. Made with tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a flavorful broth, it’s a quick and nourishing meal your family will love.
2. Tomato Basil Soup
This Creamy Tomato Basil Parmesan Soup from Tastes Better From Scratch is a rich, flavorful twist on the classic tomato soup. With a velvety texture and the perfect balance of basil and Parmesan, it’s a quick, comforting meal that pairs perfectly with a warm slice of bread.
3. Easy Tortilla Soup
This Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup from Pocket Friendly Recipes is a flavorful, comforting dish that’s simple to prepare and packed with bold, zesty flavors. While it takes about an hour to cook, the hands-off prep makes it a perfect option for busy evenings when you need a hearty, satisfying meal.
A Few of Our Family Favs
I’ll admit, I’m not much of a “quick” cook—most of our meals take time, love, and a little extra effort in the kitchen. That’s why I don’t have a ton of quick and easy recipes to share just yet.
But these are a few of our family favorites, saved on my Recipes I Can Make Again board, and I promise I’ll work on getting more of our go-to quick meals up on the blog soon!
1. Chicken Pot Pie Over Biscuits
This Chicken Pot Pie Filling Over Biscuits from A Bear in the Kitchen is pure comfort food made simple. With creamy, savory pot pie filling served over fluffy biscuits, it’s a family favorite that’s both hearty and delicious.
2. Turkey Crock Pot Breakfast Casserole
This Turkey Crock Pot Breakfast Casserole from Julie’s Eats and Treats is a hearty, make-ahead meal that’s perfect for breakfast or dinner. Loaded with tender turkey, eggs, and cheese, it’s a family-friendly dish that’s both comforting and convenient.
3. Smothered Pork Chops
These Smothered Pork Chops from Plain Chicken are one of my family’s all-time favorites and have earned a permanent spot in our weekly rotation. With tender pork chops smothered in a creamy, savory gravy, it’s a comforting meal that’s always a hit at our table.
4. Ranch Pork Chops
These Ranch Pork Chops from my blog, Making Mommas, are a simple, flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy nights. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, they’re a family favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your home too!
Your Turn!
Now it’s your turn! What are your go-to meals when life gets busy?
Whether it’s a quick soup, a family-favorite casserole, or a speedy sheet pan dinner, I’d love to hear what works for you. Share your favorite recipes in the comments or let me know which ones from this list you’re excited to try.
Let’s swap ideas and make dinnertime a little easier for all of us!
At the End of the Day…
At the end of the day, dinner is about so much more than just the food—it’s about gathering around the table, sharing stories, and connecting with the ones you love. Whether you’re whipping up a quick one-pot meal or taking your time with a family favorite, the most important thing is that you’re creating moments and memories.
So, give yourself some grace, keep it simple when you need to, and remember—you’ve got this, Momma!
More of Our Favorite Recipes
The Best Venison Gravy You Will Ever Eat – Courtesy of My Hubby!
Healthy Cheeseburger Soup {With Bacon!} That Your Kids Are Sure to Love!
Orsimer Venison: A Skyrim Venison Recipe My Kids Love
Easy Ground Beef Vegetable Soup: A Hearty, Healthy Family Favorite