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Easy Dinner Ideas For Tonight

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These easy dinner ideas for tonight are my all-time favorite go-to recipes that are quick to make and always a family favorite. From chicken, pork, and beef to seafood, casseroles, and more. Whether you want to prepare dinner before heading to work or need something to make at the last minute, here are some easy dinner ideas that everyone will love!

Best dinner ideas for tonight collage featuring images of 4 tasty recipes.
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Not everyone knows what they're going to eat for the whole week ahead of time—I know I don't. Sometimes, you have to figure out what to cook for dinner at the very last minute without any chance to go to the store.

My dinner ideas are all about easy recipes. They're quick to make, can be prepared beforehand, and mostly use ingredients you probably already have at home. So, pick one and enjoy your dinner!

1. Carne Asada

This tender and flavorful carne asada can be used for tacos, burritos, fajitas, or just enjoyed by itself!

Carne Asada
This carne asada is so incredibly flavorful and tender that it’s perfect for tacos, fajitas, burritos, or just enjoy it by itself! A delicious, oil-based marinade creates a citrus infused and extra tender piece of beef that is then charred to perfection on a hot grill. This dish is bursting with that classic, authentic Mexican flavor!
Check out this recipe
Square image showing carne asada with sliced limes on a white serving platter.

2. Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas

In 45 minutes, you’ll be ready to enjoy these cheesy, creamy enchiladas that are loaded with tender and juicy shredded chicken!

Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas
Sour cream chicken enchiladas with green enchilada sauce are creamy, cheesy, and full of Mexican flavor that the whole family will enjoy! This enchilada recipe is made with no condensed soup, but don't worry; there is no shortage of flavor! The combination of taco seasoning and sour cream with melted cheese and green sauce gives these sour cream chicken enchiladas all the flavor they need!
Check out this recipe
Square image showing plate of sour cream enchiladas.

3. Texas Chili

This extra meaty chili uses canned chipotle peppers to add some heat, which is why it's one of my favorite chili recipes. Customize it to your liking with all of your favorite toppings!

Texas Chili (without beans)
Hearty Texas chili is a comforting meal that’s packed with lots of tender meat and spicy chiles and topped with all your favorites! This bean-less chili is super easy to prepare and makes the coziest dinner ever! Serve it with cheese, sour cream, and crackers for the most satisfying and delicious meal!
Check out this recipe
Wide overhead of the dished Texas chili in white bowl with shredded cheddar cheese.

4. London Broil

This easy dish can be put in the marinade ahead of time, so when it comes time to cook this tender, mouthwatering steak, it’ll only take 15 minutes!

London Broil
My tender and juicy London broil recipe is an extravagant, yet incredibly easy, main dish that is sure to wow everyone who tastes it. The beef undergoes a simple marinating process before being quickly broiled in the oven, creating the most mouthwatering steak you’ve ever had. Undeniably, this dish needs to be on the menu anytime you are cooking for a special occasion!
Check out this recipe
Square image of classic London broil on a white platter.

5. Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s pie is a classic, family-favorite dinner that is layered with flavorful meat, onion, carrots, creamy potatoes, and melty cheese!

Gordon Ramsay Shepherd’s Pie
Gordon Ramsay shepherd’s pie is a fantastic, classic recipe he has shared through multiple videos, including his popular 'F Word' series. Savory layers of ground lamb meat and a 'secret ingredient' mashed potato topping combine to make this internationally loved comfort food. My homemade copycat recipe is the best restaurant-worthy version that you and your family are sure to love.
Check out this recipe
Large image of Gordon Ramsay Shepherds Pie out of the oven and ready to serve.

6. Doritos Chicken Casserole

My kid-loved Doritos chicken casserole is creamy, cheesy, crunchy, and extremely satisfying! Not to mention, it’s ready in 40 minutes!

Doritos Chicken Casserole (with Cream Cheese)
This cheesy Doritos chicken casserole is tasty enough for any night of the week. It’s a creamy casserole loaded with cream cheese and shredded chicken, then topped with crispy Nacho Cheese Doritos. The Doritos make an amazing cheesy crust that turns the humble casserole up a notch. A fun and delicious meal that’ll put a smile on everyone’s face.
Check out this recipe
Best nacho cheese chicken Doritos casserole served on white plate.

7. Ground Beef Stew

Tender vegetables, savory ground beef, and soft potatoes all come together to make this warm and comforting stew!

Ground Beef Stew
Ground beef stew is an amazing, comforting, and easy stew that is great for busy weeknights or really any night of the week! Flavorful and rich ground beef with tender, perfectly cooked veggies combine to give you all that classic beef stew flavor in less time!
Check out this recipe
Square image of a white bowl of ground beef stew.

8. Pan Seared Mahi Mahi

Ready in just 15 minutes, this flaky and juicy fish recipe is perfect for any last-minute dinner!

Pan Seared Mahi Mahi with Cilantro Lime Butter Sauce
This pan seared Mahi Mahi recipe creates the most tender, flaky, and juicy piece of fish that any seafood lover will enjoy. It is ridiculously quick and easy, yet full of flavor. A simple sauce made from butter, lime, and cilantro makes this pan seared Mahi Mahi recipe extra special.
Check out this recipe
Close up square image of pan seared mahi mahi.

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9. Chicken Marsala

Creamy, saucy, and loaded with mushrooms, this chicken marsala is a comforting, delicious classic!

Chicken Marsala
Chicken marsala is on Italian menus everywhere and you'll be surprised just how easy this recipe is to make at home! Chicken breasts are pounded thin and pan fried until golden-brown then slathered in mushrooms and an incredible marsala wine sauce. It's as delicious as it sounds, and now you can make restaurant-quality chicken marsala from the comfort of your own kitchen!
Check out this recipe
Best chicken marsala recipe closeup image on the dished entree served over egg noodles.

10. Pork Belly Ramen

This dish is full of crispy, flavor-packed pork belly, tender noodles, and a rich, savory broth! Not to mention, it is super customizable!

Pork Belly Ramen Bowl (with Soft Boiled Egg)
My easy pork belly ramen bowl recipe has a delicious full-bodied broth as well as tender ramen noodles and savory pork belly. The soy sauce and sesame give this Asian noodle bowl a rich, umami flavor that everyone will enjoy, and you can add all your favorite ramen toppings.
Check out this recipe
Square image of a ramen bowl with pork belly.

11. Tortilla Pizzas

Tortilla pizzas are super quick to make and everyone can choose their favorite pizza toppings! This is one of the best dinners for tonight if you are short on time!

Tortilla Pizza
A crispy tortilla pizza is an easier and healthier alternative to a traditional pizza, with all your favorite pizza toppings! Perfect for lunch or dinner, these personal pizzas can be customized to your liking and only take a few minutes to make!
Check out this recipe
Sliced pepperoni tortilla pizza on white plate.

12. Lo Mein

Add your favorite protein to this lo mein for an extra flavorful, saucy meal that is better than Chinese takeout!

Vegetable Lo Mein Recipe
These saucy stir-fried lo mein noodles are packed with fresh veggies and they only take about 15 minutes to make. Enjoy this tasty vegetable lo mein as-is, or add your choice of protein for an incredible chicken, beef, pork, or shrimp lo mein.
Check out this recipe
Wide image of stir fry lo mein noodles, with green onions.

13. Marry Me Chicken

This one-pan dinner features a cheesy, creamy sauce and tender chicken that goes perfectly over a soft bed of pasta!

Marry Me Chicken
Marry Me chicken is an incredibly easy one-skillet meal that's quick enough to make for dinner any day of the week! Thinly sliced chicken breast is covered with a creamy Parmesan and sun-dried tomato sauce that is so delicious you'll want to get down on one knee in front of whoever cooked it. Next time you're trying to plan dinner, give Marry Me Chicken a try and watch your family savor every bite!
Check out this recipe
Wide image of marry me chicken over pasta in a white dish.

14. Baked Pork Tenderloin

My baked pork tenderloins will be on the table in under 45 minutes while still being golden brown and perfectly seasoned!

Baked Pork Tenderloin
This recipe for oven baked pork tenderloin features a perfectly golden-brown sear, a delicious pork rub, and it's so easy anyone can make it! Pork tenderloin makes a wonderful dinner any day of the week and it's always a hit with adults and children alike!
Check out this recipe
Square image of pork tenderloin on a cutting board.

15. Spanish Seafood Paella

If you love seafood, then this meal is what you need in your life! It features a big bowl of rice, chorizo, and a large number of your favorite seafood proteins!

Spanish Seafood Paella
Spanish seafood paella is the ultimate one-pot meal full of rice, smoky chorizo, and a variety of delicious seafood! This easy paella recipe features chorizo, mussels, and shrimp, but you can easily swap or add more seafood like clams, calamari, or scallops! If you have a family of seafood lovers, Spanish seafood paella is always a great dinner choice!
Check out this recipe
Tasty Spanish seafood paella in small paella pan served with lemon wedge.

16. Shredded Chicken Tacos

It doesn’t have to be Tuesday to enjoy these savory, tender shredded chicken tacos loaded up with all of your favorite toppings!

Shredded Chicken Tacos
Savory shredded chicken tacos are an easy weeknight dinner that the whole family will have fun making and eating together! Chicken is cooked until fall-apart tender and coated with tasty chicken taco seasoning and tangy salsa roja, then it’s ready to serve with your favorite toppings!
Check out this recipe
Square image of shredded chicken tacos.

17. Spaghetti Bolognese

A kid-favorite meal, this spaghetti Bolognese is a classic dish that is covered in a meaty and savory tomato sauce!

Spaghetti Bolognese
Spaghetti Bolognese is a true Italian classic full of al dente spaghetti, meaty red sauce, fresh veggies, and a blend of Italian herbs! Throw in a little wine for flavor, and you have an easy weeknight dinner you'll want to make again and again!
Check out this recipe
Wide image of the plated spaghetti bolognese with greens in the background.

18. BBQ Baked Pork Spareribs

These juicy, tender, fall-off-the-bone pork spareribs use a pork dry rub and BBQ sauce to make the best ribs you’ve ever tasted!

BBQ Baked Pork Spare Ribs
My incredibly easy BBQ Baked Pork Spare Ribs turn out so tender and moist that you won’t have any leftovers. Use my homemade pork dry rub, or choose your favorite rub to season these ribs perfectly. These BBQ ribs will be a crowd-pleaser at your next get-together.
Check out this recipe
Square image of baked bbq pork spare ribs.
Best easy dinner ideas to make for family dinners during busy nights featuring three images in a collage.

19. Baked Cheeseburgers

There is no need to make a mess with a pan or a grill when you can bake these flavorful burgers right in the oven!

Baked Cheeseburgers
Oven baked cheeseburgers are just as delicious as their pan-seared or grilled counterparts but with much less mess. It is truly one of the easiest ways to make a burger as well as one of the healthiest. And because baked cheeseburgers are incredibly customizable, they make a great dinner for the whole family.
Check out this recipe
Square image of baked cheeseburger.

20. Pan Seared T-Bone Steak

The key to this rich and flavorful steak is basting it with a delicious garlic herb butter!

Pan Seared T-Bone Steak
Tender, juicy pan-seared T-Bone steaks are seasoned with savory steak seasoning, seared to perfection, then basted with a garlic herb butter! The flavor is out of this world delicious, and the steaks pair wonderfully your favorite steakhouse sides!
Check out this recipe
Closeup on the pan seared t-bone steak in pan with garlic and rosemary.

21. Fried Chicken

My classic fried chicken recipe uses the whole chicken! Whether you prefer dark or white meat, you can still have it crispy and golden-fried!

Fried Chicken
Crispy fried chicken recipe is the perfect dinner! This recipe is classic buttermilk fried chicken that uses the whole chicken. Perfect so you can choose your favorite piece of meat!
Check out this recipe
Easy classic fried chicken served on lettuce greens with sides in the background.

22. Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

This all-in-one meal is cheesy, delicious, and can be prepared ahead of time. It's one of the easiest dinner suggestions if you need to sneak in some veggies for picky eaters.

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole (Super Cheesy Family Favorite Dinner!)
My chicken broccoli rice casserole is an easy dish loaded with creamy chicken sauce, tender chicken, broccoli, rice, and cheese flavors! All of the tasty ingredients are layered into a single casserole dish for an extra simple meal! It's a long-time family favorite casserole that works wonderfully for feeding a hungry crowd any night of the week!
Check out this recipe
Square image of a tasty cheesy chicken broccoli rice casserole served on white plate.

23. Baked Flounder

My baked flounder recipe makes a tender flounder with a crispy breadcrumb coating, all within 20 minutes!

Panko Crusted Baked Flounder
My baked flounder is a fantastic combination of tender flounder fillets and a crispy Panko and Parmesan breadcrumb topping! It's an easy-to-make dinner that you can have in the oven, baked to perfection, and served in 20 minutes!
Check out this recipe
Closeup of the baked flounder with crispy topping.

24. Meatloaf (With Oatmeal)

Oatmeal meatloaf is a staple dinner at my house because it’s easy to make, and the whole family loves it!

Meatloaf (Traditional Recipe with Oatmeal)
This easy, wholesome meatloaf with oatmeal may be an old-school recipe, but that doesn’t mean it’s not still amazingly delicious! Tender ground beef is blended with seasoning and oats, then baked with a classic ketchup glaze- it’s the perfect traditional meatloaf.
Check out this recipe
Square image of the sliced meatloaf with oatmeal on white platter.

25. Nachos Supreme

These nachos are loaded sky-high with whatever toppings you like, perfect for game day or entertaining friends! They are also a great dinner idea for tonight!

Taco Bell Nachos Supreme Copycat Recipe
Nachos Supreme is an easy snack meal. Add all of your favorite toppings for these nachos supreme that are better than any from Taco Bell. No one complains when I'm dishing up their servings of this ultimate baked beef nachos recipe!
Check out this recipe
Loaded nachos supreme with nacho toppings.

26. Baked Rigatoni

This cheesy and saucy pasta bake is a yummy family favorite that can be made in advance to save time on those extra busy days!

Baked Rigatoni with Tomato Sauce & Italian Sausage
My easy baked rigatoni is an incredible comfort food featuring al dente rigatoni pasta, pasta sauce with Italian sausage, and melted cheese! You can't go wrong with this simple rigatoni pasta bake because it's a delicious dinner that the whole family will enjoy! Once you try this cheesy baked rigatoni with Italian sausage, you'll want to make it every week!
Check out this recipe
Square overhead image of baked rigatoni with Italian sausage.

27. Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry

My teriyaki chicken stir fry is a healthy, flavorful bowl full of fresh veggies and perfectly cooked chicken!

Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry
My super simple teriyaki chicken stir fry is such an amazing combination of my tender wok-fried pieces of chicken, lots of veggies, and my homemade teriyaki! Serve this nutritious and delicious dish over rice or teriyaki noodles and you’ll have an incredible weeknight dinner!
Check out this recipe
Stir fried teriyaki chicken ready to serve from skillet.

28. Biscuit Chicken Pot Pie

This casserole is an easier version of the classic chicken pot pie without losing any of the comforting, delicious flavors!

Biscuit Chicken Pot Pie
This biscuit chicken pot pie is an incredibly hearty casserole that makes a fabulous family dinner any day of the week! It combines tender pieces of chicken in classic pot pie filling with homemade cream biscuits! My biscuit-topped version of the well-loved comfort food is an easy dinner that never disappoints!
Check out this recipe
Overhead of biscuit chicken pot pie in casserole dish.

29. Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs

If you have some leftover spaghetti, use it to make this comforting casserole! It’s hearty, satisfying, and incredibly delicious! It's a great dinner idea for tonight!

Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs
Baked spaghetti and meatballs is an easy casserole with layers of spaghetti coated in sauce, cheese, and meatballs! This tasty comfort food dinner can be loaded with cheesy goodness to please your entire family. Plus, it's the perfect use of leftovers from a spaghetti dinner!
Check out this recipe
Large square closeup image of baked spaghetti and meatballs in a clear casserole dish baked with fresh baby mozzarella and garnished with genovese basil leaves.

30. Air Fryer Grilled Ham and Cheese

This delicious ham and cheese sandwich is baked to crispy perfection using your air fryer in only 10 minutes. This is another one of my favorite simple ideas the kiddos will love!

Air Fryer Grilled Ham and Cheese
These easy Air Fryer Grilled Ham and Cheese sandwiches are a perfectly crispy way to enjoy the classic combination of ham and cheese! Stack your sandwiches with slices of ham and your favorite cheese and get ready to enjoy melted cheesy goodness in just minutes!
Check out this recipe
large square image of stacked halves of crispy, cheesy Air Fryer Grilled Ham and Cheese sandwiches.

31. Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas

Grab some tortillas and your favorite toppings because these tender and juicy shrimp fajitas are ready in less than 20 minutes!

Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas
These sheet pan shrimp fajitas are an incredibly flavorful and easy-to-prepare seafood dinner to serve on any family weeknight meal! Tender, juicy pieces of shrimp are cooked with bell peppers, onion, cilantro, and seasoning for a super tasty meal that everyone loves! Toss everything together and cook on the same sheet pan for minimal fuss and a quick clean up too!
Check out this recipe
These sheet pan shrimp fajitas are an amazingly easy, tasty, and healthy dinner the whole family will love!

32. Shrimp Scampi

A buttery lemon sauce and tender shrimp are the stars of this super easy and yummy dinner!

Shrimp Scampi
A fantastic classic dish with tender shrimp in a lemony garlic sauce!
Check out this recipe
Shrimp Scampi

33. Salmon with Dill Sauce

Healthy, satisfying, and light- you can’t go wrong with this perfectly seared salmon and made-from-scratch dill sauce!

Salmon with Dill Sauce
This salmon with dill sauce recipe is so incredibly flavorful and easy to make, that it’s a dinner worth sharing with your family tonight! The salmon is pan-seared until the skin is amazingly crispy and beautifully golden brown. Then it's topped with a creamy, fresh dill and lemon sauce that makes it over-the-top delicious!
Check out this recipe
Wide image of salmon with dillsauce on a black plate with lemon slice.

34. Air Fryer Brats

These brats have crispy skin with a deliciously juicy inside!

Air Fryer Brats
These air fryer brats are so quick and easy, with a delicious, caramelized brown on the outside and ridiculously juicy on the inside! Just plop them in a toasted bun with your favorite hot dog toppings! Make those hectic weeknights so much easier with this amazing, yet simple meal!
Check out this recipe
Air fryer brats served stacked in picnic basket.

35. Ground Beef Stroganoff

This classic dinner features savory ground beef smothered in a flavorful gravy that tops a tender bed of egg noodles!

Ground Beef Stroganoff (Easy Hamburger Dinner!)
My ground beef stroganoff is a quick and tasty recipe done in less than 30 minutes that the whole family will enjoy. It is filled with flavorful, tender browned ground beef, tangy sour cream, and earthy mushrooms. Then, it is served over delicious buttered egg noodles for a delicious dinner.
Check out this recipe
Wide image of ground beef stroganoff on a white plate.

36. Tater Tot Hamburger Casserole

This kid-loved meal brings all of your favorite fast food flavors together in this warm and comforting casserole. This is one of the best ideas if you have picky kiddos in the house!

Cheesy Tater Tot Hamburger Casserole
This hearty, cheesy tater tot hamburger casserole is a fabulous combination of ground beef, mixed vegetables, and crispy tater tots! It's quick and easy dinner to make any night of the week and the whole family will love it!
Check out this recipe
Cheesy Tater Tot Hamburger Casserole is a quick family meal perfect for busy nights!

37. Margherita Sheet Pan Pizza

Recruit your kids and have fun making this delicious and crispy Margherita sheet pan pizza!

Margherita Sheet Pan Pizza
I love the simplicity of this Margherita sheet pan pizza for being an all-around crowd-pleaser that can also feed the whole family! Tangy sauce, crusty dough, and fresh ingredients all combine to make a winning family dinner!
Check out this recipe
Square image of margharita sheet pan pizza.

38. Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf

Enjoy a savory twist on this classic meatloaf recipe by adding some bacon-wrapped goodness!

Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf
A delicious, traditional, home-style Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf is topped with tangy ketchup sauce, a family favorite. This stand-by family dinner is always a quick and easy hit and is made even better with bacon wrapping!
Check out this recipe
Wide image of bacon wrapped meatloaf.

39. Baked Italian Sausage

Juicy Italian sausages and roasted vegetables make for an easy and flavorful one-pan dinner!

Baked Italian Sausage
Baked Italian Sausage is quite possibly the easiest dinner ever and ensures that your sausage links are cooked completely. There are countless flavor combinations to spice up your roasting pan and make your sweet Italian, spicy Italian, beef, pork, chicken, or even turkey sausage into a one-pan meal.
Check out this recipe
Easy baked italian sausage sheet pan dinner served with blistered cherry tomatoes.

40. Lipton Onion Soup Meatloaf

Whip up a quick and flavorful meatloaf using DIY onion soup mix as the secret ingredient. It is hands-down the most popular Lipton onion soup mix recipe on the site!

Lipton Onion Soup Meatloaf Recipe
This tasty Lipton onion soup meatloaf is seasoned with classic, savory Lipton Beefy Onion Soup mix for a quick dinner. Simply mix in the onion soup packet with your ground beef or preferred meatloaf blend, and bake. It's an easy 6-ingredient meatloaf dinner your family will love.
Check out this recipe
Lipton onion soup meatloaf sliced and ready to serve on platter.
More easy dinner ideas for tonight when you're short on time featuring homemade beefaroni, 4 ingredient potato soup, and shredded chicken tacos.

41. Pork Shoulder Butt Roast

This pork shoulder butt is seasoned to perfection with my homemade pork roast rub and roasted until it's melt-in-your-mouth-tender. You can even make a quick version in the instant pot.

Pork Shoulder Butt Roast
My pork shoulder butt roast is an ultra-tender, melt-in-your-mouth dinner that is sure to satisfy all of your guests. It only takes a few minutes of active work while the rest of the time is spent in the oven. This impressive dinner is so delicious and juicy that it will become your new go-to roast for entertaining!
Check out this recipe
Square image of pork shoulder butt roast on a serving dish sliced.

42. Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Now you can make the classic hometown country-cooked meatloaf made famous by Cracker Barrel from the comfort of your own kitchen!

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Copycat Recipe
My Cracker Barrel meatloaf is comfort food at its best with onions, green bell peppers, Ritz crackers, and cheese! It's topped with a delicious glaze that’ll knock your socks off! This homemade restaurant entree is so tasty that your family is sure to love it more than the original!
Check out this recipe
Wide image of cracker barrel meatloaf copycat recipe.

43. Boneless Country Style Pork Ribs

You only need four ingredients for these super tender boneless pork ribs, and your oven does all of the work!

Baked Boneless Country Style Pork Ribs
These baked boneless country-style pork ribs are baked slowly for over 2 hours and then slathered in BBQ sauce. They're perfect for dinner, weekend lunches, cookouts, or get-togethers. My easy, tender, oven-baked ribs will be one of your most requested meals!
Check out this recipe
Wide closeup on the slow cooker country style pork ribs served on tan plate with extra bbq sauce on the side.

44. Crockpot Cube Steak

Tender cube steak cooked low and slow in a rich and creamy brown mushroom gravy made with cream of mushroom soup. Just set it in the morning and forget about it until dinnertime!

Crockpot Cube Steak Recipe (with gravy, onions, and mushrooms)
This crockpot cube steak with gravy is my favorite easy slow cooker recipe for making a family favorite meal for any night! It takes very little prep, making it a perfect dinner for busy weeknights! With just a handful of ingredients, you’re sure to put this on the dinner menu weekly!
Check out this recipe
Wide image of crockpot cube steak served with rice.

45. Shake and Bake Pork Chops

Forget store-bought mixes. My homemade shake-and-bake breading is an easy way to elevate pork chops. For side dish suggestions, I have an entire page dedicated to what to serve with shake and bake pork chops!

Shake And Bake Pork Chops
Shake and Bake Pork Chops are not just a nostalgic throwback but a delightful way to enjoy a quick and easy dinner, perfect for those busy weeknights. These pork chops, coated in a homemade spice blend, are baked to golden brown perfection, offering a crispy, juicy, and flavorful meal that beats any store-bought version.
Check out this recipe
Closeup image of the plated shake and bake pork chops using homemade DIY breading mix.

46. Tacos Dorados

These crispy golden tacos are sure to be a new favorite for Taco Tuesdays. Just add your favorite taco toppings!

Tacos Dorados
Tacos dorados, or 'golden tacos,' have a taco shell that is so amazing that you will never buy hard taco shells again! Warm tortillas are loaded with meat filling and then pan-fried to perfection. They are so good that you won't have any leftovers!
Check out this recipe
Square image of tacos dorados.

47. Ground Beef Casserole

A cheesy pasta casserole loaded with seasoned ground beef, and it's ready in 15 minutes - what more could you ask for?

Ground Beef Casserole
A quick and easy ground beef casserole with cheese and pasta is the perfect last-minute family dinner for days you are on the go. This recipe only requires a few simple ingredients like ground beef, cheddar cheese, marinara, and penne pasta. Mix the ingredients and bake for 15 minutes; then, you will have a deliciously cheesy ground beef casserole that both children and adults will enjoy!
Check out this recipe
Closeup square image of ground beef casserole on a white plate.

48. Doritos Casserole

Nacho cheese Doritos make up the crunchy base of this cheesy Tex-Mex casserole!

Nacho Cheese Doritos Casserole (With Ground Beef)
This quick and easy nacho cheese Doritos casserole is a family favorite dinner that combines hearty ground beef with crunchy Doritos and more. It's incredibly easy to make, layered with gooey deliciousness, and never fails to please.
Check out this recipe
Dorito casserole on table in 9x13 pan.

49. Sous Vide Chicken Breast

With a little practice, sous vide is an extremely easy cooking method that makes for the most juicy and succulent chicken you'll ever try!

Sous Vide Chicken Breast
This sous vide chicken breast recipe makes perfectly cooked chicken breasts that are delectably juicy every time! I've included precise temperature charts, tips, and tricks so you can't mess it up! If you're craving an easy chicken dinner, sou vide chicken breast is the way to go!
Check out this recipe
Wide image showing sliced sous vide boneless skinless chicken breast.

50. Lemon Butter Baked Cod

This flaky baked cod in lemon butter cream sauce is always a hit at my house for an easy seafood dinner!

Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe
My lemon butter baked cod fish bakes tender, flaky cod to perfection in a tangy, creamy lemon butter sauce! The light flakiness of a superb cod fillet is complimented perfectly with such a rich sauce. This easy baked white fish recipe is dripping in flavor!
Check out this recipe
Wide image of butter baked cod fish.

51. 4 Ingredient Potato Soup

It's hard to beat anything that tastes as rich and satisfying as this potato soup when it can be made with just four ingredients!

4 Ingredient Potato Soup
This Easy Potato Soup is creamy and delicious. The easiest comfort food soup you’ll ever make with only 4 ingredients needed! This luscious, delectable soup will have your family thinking it’s been simmering all day – but it only takes 30 minutes to cook!
Check out this recipe
Wide image of the dishes 4 ingredient potato soup served in black bowl.

52. Beefaroni

My take on this classic family favorite is just as cheesy and comforting as you remember from childhood!

Beefaroni (Easy Skillet Recipe)
My beefaroni recipe is a family favorite dinner featuring a flavorful tomato and ground beef meat sauce tossed with tender macaroni noodles. It's a big bowl of comfort food that never disappoints. You can even freeze it to have an easy dinner at the ready whenever you need it.
Check out this recipe
Wide image of beefaroni dinner.

53. Crockpot Mongolian Beef

This crockpot Mongolian beef is better than any drive-thru Chinese takeout recipe! Not to mention, it's ready to eat in just 2 hours.

Crockpot Mongolian Beef
My crockpot Mongolian beef is one of my favorite slow cooker family dinners and one of my first recipes on the site! It's incredibly simple; just set it and forget it for 2 hours, and voila, dinner is ready! It tastes better than buying takeout and is perfect for busy weeknights!
Check out this recipe
Square image of crockpot Mongolian beef.

54. Air Fryer Quesadillas

Whip up quick and crispy quesadillas in your air fryer for an easy dinner option that can be customized to each person!

Air Fryer Quesadillas
Air fryer quesadillas are an incredibly quick and easy snack, appetizer, or family meal that you can load up with tasty fillings and cheese! My family loves using leftover taco meat from Taco Night, and Monterey Jack is a personal favorite for super melted results! Best of all, they cook quickly and crisp up beautifully!
Check out this recipe
Stacked quesadillas on a wooden cutting board with pico de gallo and cilantro.

55. Slow Cooker Goulash

With tender noodles and a hearty meat sauce, this simple slow cooker goulash is a classic comfort food the whole family will enjoy.

Slow Cooker Goulash
This slow cooker goulash is a flavorful and delicious meal packed with macaroni noodles, ground beef, and seasonings. Using a crockpot for this American goulash is incredibly simple, allowing you to just throw the ingredients in and let the magic happen while you go about your day! It's a simple comfort food that the entire family will love!
Check out this recipe
Wide image of a plate of slow cooker goulash.

56. Shredded Chicken Enchiladas

Shred up your leftover chicken, or grab a rotisserie chicken for these super easy cheesy chicken enchiladas! Try it with my homemade red enchilada sauce, or you can use canned in a pinch!

Shredded Chicken Enchiladas
These shredded chicken enchiladas are one of my family's favorite dinner recipes, and I love that they are super easy to make! Tender shredded chicken pieces are rolled up in homemade flour tortillas, smothered in red enchilada sauce, and topped with Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses! Then, just pop them in the oven and bake to cheesy golden perfection!
Check out this recipe
These cheesy chicken enchiladas are an easy to make comfort food and family favorite dinner!

57. Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

Casserole recipes are the ultimate choice for satisfying family dinners in a flash. Leftover spaghetti can be used to make this super cheesy spaghetti casserole that you'll love even more than the original meal!

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
Million-Dollar spaghetti casserole is an easy family dinner that features layers of al dente spaghetti, meat sauce, and creamy cheeses. While the name may sound extravagant, this dish is surprisingly simple to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners and special occasions. It is easy to make and tastes like a million bucks.
Check out this recipe
Wide image of Million dollar spaghetti casserole.

58. Baked Scotch Eggs

Scotch eggs freeze wonderfully, so you can make them in advance and reheat them for an easy entree or quick snack!

Baked Scotch Eggs
These baked Scotch eggs are just as delicious as the standard fried version but with much less effort and mess! This easy, no-fail method makes them perfect for even a beginner. Plus, you can even prepare them ahead of time for a quick dish!
Check out this recipe
Wide image of baked scotch eggs.

59. Honey Garlic Pork Chops

The sweetness of honey and the robust flavor of garlic come together to make the most delectable pork chops. You can check out my favorite pork chop side dishes here or whip up a few of your go-to sides to round out the meal!

Honey Garlic Pork Chops
These crispy honey garlic pork chops are delicious, packed with flavor, and are a perfect addition to your family dinner any night of the week! Double-coated pork chops are crispy on the outside, while still tender and moist inside, then coated with our sweet honey garlic sauce. They're easy to make and super tasty!
Check out this recipe
Square image of honey garlic pork chops.

60. Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs with Pineapple

These sweet and savory chicken meatballs in pineapple teriyaki sauce are fabulous over rice or noodles. Serve over quick instant pot long grain, basmati, or jasmine rice.

Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs with Pineapple
These teriyaki chicken meatballs with pineapple are easy to make and super delicious over white rice, noodles, or vegetables! The oven-baked meatballs are tossed in my easy homemade pineapple teriyaki sauce with fresh, juicy pineapple chunks. It's the perfect balance of sweet and savory!
Check out this recipe
Wide image of chicken teriyaki meatballs.

61. Chicken Spaghetti with Rotel

Toss shredded chicken with cheese, spaghetti, and Rotel tomatoes with chiles, and bake for a zesty and satisfying chicken spaghetti casserole!

Chicken Spaghetti with Rotel
Chicken spaghetti with Rotel is an easy, simple, and delicious spaghetti casserole dish for weeknight family dinners! The Velveeta cheese, cream cheese, and heavy cream (or cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soup) make this dish extra special! Plus, it is a perfect use for leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken!
Check out this recipe
This Chicken Spaghetti with Rotel is a super easy spaghetti casserole loaded with creamy deliciousness from the Velveeta and cream cheeses!

😋 More Great Dinner Recipes

I hope this list of dinner ideas for tonight helped you choose a delicious meal to make! Leave a comment and let me know your go-to dinner ideas!

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5 from 11 reviews

Best Easy Dinner Ideas For Tonight: 61+ Great Main Dish Recipes To Make Now!

These easy dinner ideas for tonight are my all-time favorite go-to recipes that are quick to make and always a family favorite. From chicken, pork, and beef to seafood, casseroles, and more. Whether you want to prepare dinner before heading to work or need something to make at the last minute, here are some easy dinner ideas that everyone will love!
Author | Angela Latimer
Servings: 10 servings
Calories: 475kcal
Prep 10 minutes
Cooking 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
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Ingredients
 

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin)
  • ¼ cup yellow onion (diced - or white onion)
  • 21.5 oz cream of chicken condensed soup (2 10.75-ounce cans)
  • 10 oz RoTel diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 ½ tablespoon taco seasoning (see recipe or use your favorite brand)
  • 4 oz cream cheese (cubed or cut into chunks, softened at room temperature)
  • 15.25 oz black beans (1 15.25-ounce can, drained and rinsed)
  • 4 cups cooked chicken (shredded, or leftover rotisserie chicken)
  • 9 oz Nacho Cheese Doritos (one regular size bag, crushed - divided into 2 portions)
  • 2 cups Mexican cheese blend (shredded - divided, two 1 cup portions)
  • ¼ cup cilantro (optional, fresh, chopped)
Help Us Out!If you love a recipe, be sure to come back and share your ratings. This helps future users, and allows me to continue sharing free recipes! Angela

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C/Gas Mark 4) while you heat a large skillet with the 1 tablespoon olive oil to medium heat. Lightly grease a 9x13 baking dish.
  • Once the oil begins to shimmer, add the diced ¼ cup yellow onion and saute until opaque, fragrant, and tender, or about 4-5 minutes. Pour in the 21.5 oz cream of chicken condensed soup, 10 oz RoTel diced tomatoes with green chilies, and 1 ½ tablespoon taco seasoning. Stir to combine.
  • After stirring the sauce, add the softened 4 oz cream cheese and stir until it's melted, then add the drained 15.25 oz black beans and shredded 4 cups cooked chicken meat. Stir to combine and evenly coat the chicken with sauce. *If you'd like some of the optional ¼ cup cilantro in your chicken casserole, stir it in with the chicken and beans.
  • Layer half the crushed 9 oz Nacho Cheese Doritos into your prepared baking dish, then add half of the chicken sauce mixture. Top with half of the shredded 2 cups Mexican cheese blend. Add the last half of the chicken mixture, top with the remaining Doritos, and then the remaining shredded cheese.
  • Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C/Gas Mark 4) in the middle of your oven's center rack for 30 minutes. Cover loosely with a sheet of aluminum foil if the cheese topping starts to brown too much. Your casserole is ready when the cheese is fully melted and golden.

Notes

  • Setting your cream cheese out about 30 minutes before you'll need it is (typically) sufficient time for the cream cheese to warm at room temperature.
  • Plain or fire roasted diced tomatoes are also great in this casserole.
  • Regular size bags (keep getting smaller) but typically range between 9 to 10-ounces. The family size bags are around 15-ounces and will work wonderfully as well.
  • The optional cilantro is great as garnish when serving, but is also a fantastic stir-in for the casserole.

Nutrition

Calories: 475kcal (24%) | Carbohydrates: 33g (11%) | Protein: 28g (56%) | Fat: 26g (40%) | Saturated Fat: 9g (56%) | Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 81mg (27%) | Sodium: 853mg (37%) | Potassium: 465mg (13%) | Fiber: 5g (21%) | Sugar: 3g (3%) | Vitamin A: 505IU (10%) | Vitamin C: 3mg (4%) | Calcium: 233mg (23%) | Iron: 3mg (17%)
Did you try this recipe? Rate it below!I can’t wait to see your results! Mention @bake_it_with_love or tag #bake_it_with_love!
Course Casseroles, Chicken Dishes, Dinner Recipes, Main Dish
Cuisine American
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5 from 11 votes (11 ratings without comment)

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