Deciding what to make for dinner can be one of the most frustrating parts of the day. You want something that’s delicious, satisfying, and easy enough to prepare without spending hours in the kitchen. The good news? You don’t have to rely on takeout or repeat the same boring meals every night.
In this guide, we’ll cover 7 dinner recipes that are flavorful, family-approved, and easy to make — so next time you’re wondering what to make for dinner, you’ll have plenty of inspiration.
1. Garlic Butter Chicken with Roasted Vegetables
If you want a dinner that’s quick, flavorful, and healthy, garlic butter chicken with roasted vegetables is a perfect choice.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups baby carrots
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss broccoli, carrots, and tomatoes in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet.
- Season chicken with paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In a skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add chicken and sear for 2–3 minutes per side.
- Transfer chicken to the baking sheet with veggies and roast for 15–20 minutes.
Why You’ll Love It:
This meal is low-effort but packed with flavor, and it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
2. Beef Stir-Fry with Ginger and Soy Sauce
When you want something quick and full of flavor, stir-fry is the answer.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup snow peas
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
Instructions:
- Toss beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Let marinate for 10 minutes.
- Heat sesame oil in a skillet or wok. Stir-fry ginger and garlic for 30 seconds.
- Add beef and cook until browned. Remove from the pan.
- Stir-fry bell pepper and snow peas for 2–3 minutes. Return beef to the pan, toss, and serve over rice.
Why You’ll Love It:
This dish takes less than 20 minutes to make and is a perfect answer to what to make for dinner when you’re short on time.
3. Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Pasta
For a dinner that feels restaurant-worthy, try this creamy Tuscan shrimp pasta.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup baby spinach
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic. Add shrimp and cook until pink. Remove shrimp.
- Pour in heavy cream, Parmesan, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes. Simmer until thickened.
- Add pasta and shrimp, tossing to coat.
Why You’ll Love It:
It’s creamy, comforting, and ready in about 30 minutes — perfect for a cozy night in.
4. BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
If you have a slow cooker, BBQ pulled pork sandwiches are an easy way to feed a hungry family.
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs pork shoulder
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Burger buns
Instructions:
- Season pork with paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Place pork and onion in the slow cooker. Pour over BBQ sauce.
- Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4–5 hours.
- Shred pork and serve on buns with extra sauce.
Why You’ll Love It:
Minimal prep, amazing flavor, and leftovers taste just as good.
5. Vegetarian Chickpea Curry
For a meat-free dinner option that’s still hearty, try chickpea curry.
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 2 cups canned chickpeas, drained
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a pot. Sauté onion and garlic until soft.
- Add curry powder and cumin, cooking for 1 minute.
- Stir in chickpeas, coconut milk, and tomatoes. Simmer for 15–20 minutes.
- Garnish with cilantro and serve with rice or naan.
Why You’ll Love It:
It’s budget-friendly, filling, and packed with flavor.
6. Baked Salmon with Lemon and Dill
When you want something light and nutritious, baked salmon is a go-to option.
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, until flaky.
Why You’ll Love It:
It’s fresh, healthy, and cooks in under 20 minutes.
7. Classic Beef Tacos
Sometimes the answer to what to make for dinner is as simple as tacos.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 12 taco shells
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- Salsa and sour cream, for serving
Instructions:
- Cook beef in a skillet until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add taco seasoning and a splash of water. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Fill taco shells with beef, lettuce, cheese, and tomatoes.
- Top with salsa and sour cream.
Why You’ll Love It:
They’re fun, customizable, and always a family favorite.
Tips for Choosing What to Make for Dinner
- Plan Ahead: Keep a rotating list of recipes to avoid decision fatigue.
- Use What You Have: Check your pantry and fridge before deciding.
- Balance Your Week: Mix quick meals with more indulgent ones.
Final Thoughts on What to Make for Dinner: 7 Recipes
When you’re stuck wondering what to make for dinner, these 7 recipes offer a variety of flavors, cooking styles, and prep times. From comforting pastas to fresh seafood, quick stir-fries, and slow cooker favorites, you’ll never be short on ideas again.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, these dinners will keep your weeknight meals exciting, stress-free, and absolutely delicious.