27 Super Quick And Easy Weeknight Dinners

Whether you’re a parent, work long hours or simply “can’t be bothered,” finding Easy Weeknight Dinners that cut down on the amount of time you spend in the kitchen is essential. 

“Stress” and “too busy” tend to be commonly used phrases in our fast-paced society, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a nutritious meal- yes, even during the week. 

If you find yourself struggling to come up with meal plans from Monday-Friday, you’ve come to the right place because with these 27 Super Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinners, you’ll be excited when it comes time to cook.

Quick Table: Super Quick And Easy Weeknight Dinners

Recipes	Calories Per Serving	Preparation Time
Chicken Pot Pie Noodle Skillet	445	15 min
Jalapeno Popper Grilled Cheese Sandwich	619	10 min
Cheeseburger Sliders	289	10 min
Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi	599	10 min
Taco Pasta	503	5 min
Chicken Fried Rice	337	10 min
Chicken Gyros	402	20 min
Chicken Scampi	497	15 min
Ham And Cheddar Crescent Roll-Ups	n/a	10 min
Beef Enchiladas	n/a	20 min
Sausage, Peppers And Onions Sheet Pan Dinner	276	5 min
Black Bean Burrito Bowl	298	15 min
Mini Meatloaf	447	15 min
Gluten-Free Beef And Broccoli	841	5 min
Chili Lime Chicken Fajita	213	10 min
Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles	120	10 min
White Chicken Skillet Lasagne	535	10 min
Chicken And Dumplings	441	15 min
Bbq Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes	490	20 min
Salmon Pesto Pasta	567	10 min
Grilled Hawaiian Pork Chops	n/a	10 min
Chicken Caprese	391	10 min
Tomato Tortellini Soup	n/a	10 min
Sheet Pan Chinese Cashew Tofu	n/a	5 min
Ham Steaks, Green Beans & Potatoes	n/a	15 min
Scallops And Summer Vegetable Skillet	550	15 min

1. Chicken Pot Pie Noodle Skillet 

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Quick and easy comfort food- does it get any better than that?

This recipe puts a fun spin on the traditional warm and creamy chicken pot pie by using the same key ingredients (chicken, peas, carrots) but instead of crust, uses noodles.

And bonus: this dish can be entirely prepared in just one skillet. 

Calories Per Serving: 445

Preparation Time: 15 Minutes 

2. Jalapeno Popper Grilled Cheese Sandwich

https://www.pinterest.pt/pin/99079260543796146

When you’re really pressed for time, grilled cheese sandwiches are always a great dinner idea but instead of using the same old recipe, why not try something new?

This spicy and delicious recipe uses jalapeno peppers along with three types of cheese. It also calls for white bread but if you’re wanting something a little healthier, you can easily switch it out for whole grain.

Calories Per Serving: 619

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes 

3. Cheeseburger Sliders

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For nights when you’re looking for quick, fun finger food, these cheeseburger sliders are just what you need. 

With a super corned beef stuffed into soft, Hawaiian rolls and topped with a butter and mustard glaze, this dish is simply heavenly and it only takes 10 minutes to prepare. 

Calories Per Serving: 289

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes 

4. One-Pot Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi

Gnocchi: tiny pasta dumplings that are not only deliciously adorable, but are also super easy to make!

For a quick and wholesome weeknight meal, this one-pot creamy gnocchi recipe is a must. 

Not only is its delectable tomato spinach sauce truly out of this world, it also only takes 25 minutes to make.

This dish would be a great option for vegetarians. 

Calories Per Serving: 599

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes 

5. Taco Pasta

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Tacos and pasta are epic on their own. Now imagine them put together!

This one-pot dish can be whipped up in no time and contains all the best flavors from two of our favorite meals: pasta shells, taco seasoning, tons of cheese, hamburger meat and tomatoes. 

Our mouths are already starting to water!

Calories Per Serving: 503

Preparation Time: 5 Minutes 

6. Chicken Fried Rice 

https://www.pinterest.pt/pin/323062973281246595

Fried rice is always a great default during the week not only because of how yummy it is, but also because of how easy it is to make! 

This recipe has all the flavors of fried rice you could want: chicken, rice, veggies, soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil and mirin. 

It’s so good, you’ll even find it’s better than takeout. 

Calories Per Serving: 337

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes 

7. Chicken Gyros

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For another simple and tasty chicken dish try these delectable chicken gyros. 

With marinated fried chicken and tzatziki sauce stuffed into a warm pita along with all the seasonings you can get, this dish has no shortage of flavor. 

Take a bite of these babies and you’ll be instantly transported to the streets of Greece.

Calories Per Serving: 402

Preparation Time: 20 Minutes 

8. Chicken Scampi

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Okay, this 35-minute chicken scampi is seriously one of a kind and is packed full of delicious surprises. 

To give you a hint, it uses a butter and white wine sauce, two kinds of premium cheese as well as a zesty and spicy kick from the lemon wedges and red pepper flakes. 

Serve it with garlic bread and the family will be begging for seconds. 

Calories Per Serving: 497

Preparation Time: 15 Minutes 

9. Ham And Cheddar Crescent Roll-Ups 

https://www.pinterest.pt/pin/315463148909207869

When you really need to get dinner on the table fast, these cheddar crescent roll-ups will definitely do the trick. 

Not only can they be completed in 20 minutes, they’re also super addicting. 

Ham and cheese are a classic but what sets these rolls apart is the delicious garlic butter and parsley coating. 

Golden, flaky, buttery goodness. Mmm-mmmm. 

Calories Per Serving: N/A

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes 

10. Beef Enchiladas

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Nothing beats a simple 5-ingredient dish on a busy weeknight, especially when it’s as delicious as these home-cooked beef enchiladas. 

These Mexican delights are packed full of lean ground beef, salsa, enchilada sauce, tortillas and 2 cups of cheese! 

Because, you can never have too much cheese. 

Calories Per Serving: N/A

Preparation Time: 20 Minutes 

RELATED: Friday Night Dinner Recipes To Celebrate Your Perfect Weekend

11. Sausage, Peppers And Onions Sheet Pan Dinner

https://www.pinterest.pt/pin/703756182011248/

For a hearty meal that’s just as scrumptious as it is simple, this dish is perfect. 

“One-sheet” meals are just as easy as they sound: throw all of your ingredients onto one pan, put it in the oven and you’re done! 

This recipe features 4 chicken sausages, an onion and peppers. Deeelish. 

Calories Per Serving: 276

Preparation Time: 5 Minutes 

12. Black Bean Burrito Bowl

https://www.pinterest.pt/pin/37717715622378194

It’s safe to say that this burrito bowl was made by the hands of a god- it’s just that good. 

Burritos aren’t the same without beans, rice, corn and of course spicy chipotle sauce- and this dish has it all. 

If that wasn’t good enough, it’s also plant-based and vegan-friendly. 

Let’s start the fiesta! 

Calories Per Serving: 298

Preparation Time: 15 Minutes 

13. Mini Meatloaf

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You can never have enough sheet pan recipes during the week and this mini meatloaf ensemble is exactly that. 

Meatloaf is highly underrated. I mean, beef, Worcestershire sauce, cheese, garlic and onion- what’s not to like about that? 

Serve this dish with potatoes and veggies for a well-rounded and healthy weeknight meal. 

Calories Per Serving: 447

Preparation Time: 15 Minutes 

14. Ground Beef And Broccoli 

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Broccoli and beef are just one of those matches made in heaven and if it can be adapted into a quick and delicious gluten, soy and dairy-free version, well that’s just a bonus. 

And don’t worry, these changes aren’t at all at the expense of the flavor. In fact, the ginger garlic oyster sauce is one of the best we’ve ever tried. 

Calories Per Serving: 841

Preparation Time: 5 Minutes 

15. Chili Lime Sheet Pan Chicken Fajita 

https://www.pinterest.pt/pin/564779609531107204/

We can’t get enough of Mexican-inspired dishes and this fajita dish is nothing short of impressive. 

One pan, a few simple ingredients and 20 minutes of your time are all it takes to complete this delectable meal. 

Like a traditional fajita, this dish features chicken, peppers, onion and a zesty lime dressing. 

Oh, and don’t forget the tortillas! 

Calories Per Serving: 213

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes 

16. Garlic Shrimp And Zucchini Noodles 

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If you’re looking for a dish that’s simple and extra healthy, then this herb, garlic and lemon shrimp and zucchini duo is just what you need. 

For this recipe, all that’s required is a frozen bag of shrimp, a zucchini, a few simple spices and 20 short minutes.

It doesn’t get easier than that! 

Calories Per Serving: 120

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes 

17. White Chicken Skillet Lasagne

https://www.pinterest.pt/pin/351280839697157964/

One pot and six ingredients? Get ready parents, because this one’s for you! 

Lasagne is delicious. Chicken is delicious. So it’s only natural that the two had to come together to make this creamy, hearty comfort food. 

With a yield of 6 servings, this dish is great for families. 

Calories Per Serving: 535

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes 

18. Chicken And Dumplings

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If you’re all about meals that can be made in record timing, then you definitely need to invest in an instant pot. 

Just look at this recipe. All you have to do is mix chicken, veggies and dumplings in one instant pot and sit back and watch the magic happen. 

Chicken and dumpling soup is super comforting and hearty and would be perfect for a rainy night.

Calories Per Serving: 441

Preparation Time: 15 Minutes 

19. BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes 

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Who says quick recipes have to be boring? 

This baked potato-inspired dish certainly says otherwise! 

Sweet potatoes are super healthy and easy to make. For the filling, simply add in tender pieces of chicken breast and a delicious barbecue sauce and you’ve got yourself a sweet, smoky taste of summer. 

Calories Per Serving: 490

Preparation Time: 20 Minutes 

 20. Salmon Pesto Pasta 

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Every household needs a good fish recipe and if it can be finished in only 30 minutes? Well, then that’s definitely a keeper. 

Salmon and pesto pair beautifully together and, when combined with delicious, juicy chunks of chicken, make for the perfect wholesome weeknight meal. 

Also, don’t worry about homemade pesto, the store-bought stuff works great too! 

Calories Per Serving: 567

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes 

21. Grilled Hawaiian Pork Chops

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Honestly, if you’ve never tried grilled pineapple, then you haven’t lived. 

Luckily for you, this recipe features the tropical delight in this Hawaiian-inspired dish. 

With sweetness from the pineapple and brown sugar and savory hints from the pork chops and soy sauce, you get the best of both worlds- all in just 30 minutes. 

Calories Per Serving: N/A

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes 

22. Chicken Caprese

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For a refreshing taste of Italy, try this delicious and easy Caprese dish. 

Sometimes, you just want something a little lighter, especially during the summer months. 

For that, there’s nothing better than fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil and grilled chicken breast. 

Oh and don’t forget the creamy balsamic glaze.

Calories Per Serving: 391

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes 

 23. Tomato Tortellini Soup 

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While we’re on the topic of Italy, we thought we might as well introduce you to this fabulous tomato tortellini (say that 10 times fast) soup. 

It’s simple and rich in delicious flavors, including Italian sausage, garlic, onion, chicken broth and Italian spices such as oregano and basil. 

What’s great about this recipe is that it’s filling without being too heavy which makes it an ideal dish for the summer months. 

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes 

24. Sheet Pan Chinese Cashew Tofu

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This gluten-free, vegan dish is so good it will even have our fellow meat-eaters raving about it. 

Tofu is quite bland on its own but, when flavored correctly, is absolutely delectable. 

With all the flavors you could imagine, such as maple syrup, sriracha, lime juice, ginger and garlic, this tofu is definitely getting all the seasoning it needs. 

Not to mention the tofu, veggies and cashews can all be cooked on one sheet pan. 

Calories Per Serving: N/A

Preparation Time: 5 Minutes

25. Garlic Butter Steak And Potatoes

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Steak and potatoes were made for each other like peanut butter was made for jelly. 

It’s a classic duo that tastes even better with the right spices and this garlic, herb and butter marinade is definitely doing the trick. 

Not only are the seasonings spot on, the flank steak is also super juicy and the potatoes, fried to golden perfection. 

This dish only takes 15 minutes from start to finish. 

Calories Per Serving: N/A

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes 

 26. Ham Steaks, Green Beans & Potatoes 

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If you’re not so much of a steak person, then this irresistible ham dish might be just what you’re looking for. 

Ham steaks, veggies and potatoes are all thrown into the oven on one sheet and glazed with a delicious honey-mustard drizzle. 

Take them out after 20 minutes and you’ve got yourself a perfect minimal-effort meal!  

Calories Per Serving: N/A

Preparation Time: 15 Minutes 

27. Scallops And Summer Vegetable Skillet

https://www.pinterest.pt/pin/448952656617141674

There’s nothing like fresh scallops during the summer and this recipe allows you to have them in a matter of minutes. 

Mixed with shallots, zucchini, tomatoes, garlic and corn bread, these scallops are full of flavor and super healthy. 

Oh, and did we mention it can all be cooked up in just one skillet? 

Calories Per Serving: 550

Preparation Time: 15 Minutes 

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is A Sheet Pan Meal?

A sheet pan meal implies that all of the components of a recipe (such as veggies, meat and potatoes) can be cooked in the oven on just one pan. It’s significantly more efficient than other methods and saves time and requires less clean-up. 

What Is A One-Pot Meal? 

A one-pot meal is similar to sheet pan meals in that it indicates a dish where all your ingredients can be thrown into one pot. These types of recipes are perfect for weeknights because of the simplicity and quick clean-up. 

What Easy Meals Are There That Are Cheap?

Quick and easy meals tend to be on the more affordable side as they usually require fewer ingredients but for the most inexpensive options, opt for dishes that are more rice and pasta-based. Sandwiches are also optimal for when you’re on a budget.