21 midweek family dinners that are extra easy to cook

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Midweek family dinners take center stage during busy weeks. These 21 recipes are not just perfect for midweek meals but also incredibly easy to prepare. These recipes cater to all skill levels, from one-pan wonders to simple sheet pan dinners. They’re designed to save you time in the kitchen so you can enjoy more moments around the dinner table, making midweek family dinners the best part of your week.

A casserole dish filled with broccoli and cheese.
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Spinach Chicken Bake

A serving spoon serving of creamy spinach chicken bake.
Spinach Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

When it comes to midweek family dinners, the Spinach Chicken Bake is a game-changer. It takes just 30 minutes to whip up a hearty meal featuring chicken thighs, cream cheese, mozzarella, and spinach, all in one pan. Perfect for beginners, this recipe is forgiving and minimizes room for error. Once it’s out of the oven, serve it hot, and you’ll appreciate the simplicity of this extra easy dinner. Plus, the one-pan method ensures an easy cleanup, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time washing dishes.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Chicken Bake

Cabbage and Sausage

A fork in a bowl of cabbage and sausage.
Cabbage and Sausage. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Cabbage and Sausage is a quick and delicious option for midweek family dinners. This recipe requires only cabbage and sausage, making it accessible for all cooking levels. With everything cooked in one pan, it simplifies both preparation and cleanup, making your life easier on busy evenings. It’s a standalone dinner option that saves you time without compromising on flavor, making it highly practical for any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage

Crock Pot Taco Soup

A crock pot of taco soup.
Crock Pot Taco Soup. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

For a no-fuss midweek family dinner, turn to Crock Pot Taco Soup. With just 20 minutes of prep, this dish features ground beef and pantry staples, making it a breeze to put together. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, so you can go about your day and return to a ready-to-eat meal. This recipe is forgiving and easy to follow, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and seasoned cooks. Its simplicity and convenience make it perfect for those hectic days when you want a comforting meal without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Taco Soup

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Loaded broccoli cauliflower casserole in a baking dish garnished with green onions.
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole is your shortcut to a comforting midweek family dinner. In this dish, steamed broccoli, cauliflower, cheese, and crispy bacon come together in one baking dish. It’s forgiving and easily customizable to suit your taste. Quick to prepare and serve hot, it’s a flavorful meal that everyone will love, especially those new to cooking. The straightforward steps and short cooking time make it a top choice for busy weeknights when you need a wholesome meal without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Chicken Corn Soup

A bowl of chicken corn soup garnished with parsley.
Chicken Corn Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

When you’re craving a quick and flavorful one-pot meal, Chicken Corn Soup is the answer. Ready in less than an hour, it combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and broth to make a memorable dinner that the whole family will enjoy. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this recipe is easy to follow, making it a practical choice for any night of the week. Plus, you won’t have to worry about a pile of dishes, as it all cooks in one pot, simplifying cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Corn Soup

Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Creamy ground beef skillet with cauliflower rice garnished with fresh herbs with a fork.
Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

For a speedy midweek family dinner, try Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice. In just 30 minutes, this recipe combines ground beef, cheddar cheese, cauliflower rice, and mushrooms in one skillet. The result is a complete meal without the need for extra side dishes, making it both convenient and filling. Whether you’re new to cooking or short on time, the straightforward preparation and easy cleanup will make this dish a go-to option for weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Creamy Italian sausage soup in a pot with a spoon and garnishes on the side.
Creamy Italian Sausage Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Italian Sausage Soup is your ticket to a quick and hearty midweek family dinner. It comes together in just 30 minutes in a single pot, combining Italian sausage, cream cheese, canned tomatoes, and heavy cream for a rich and comforting texture. This recipe is forgiving, ensuring a delicious outcome even for those new to cooking. It’s a complete meal on its own, eliminating the need for additional sides. With minimal equipment and a short cooking time, it’s a practical choice for an easy dinner that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Sausage and veggies sheet pan dinner with a spoon.
Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

When you need an effortless midweek family dinner, Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner comes to the rescue. In only 30 minutes, you can prepare a meal using just one sheet pan, reducing both preparation and cleanup time. With roasted sausage and vegetables, it’s a well-balanced dinner option. Even if you’re new to cooking, this dish is practically foolproof, making it an ideal choice for a quick and delicious weeknight meal. Discover the convenience of this extra easy dinner that you’ll wish you had tried sooner.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Chicken with creamy mushroom sauce in a pan.
Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

In just 30 minutes, Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce delivers a delectable midweek family dinner. Using only one pan, you can cook chicken and a rich mushroom sauce together effortlessly. The straightforward method is perfect for those new to the kitchen, and you can pair it with rice or noodles to create a complete meal. Its fast cooking time and simplicity make it a top choice for busy weeknights when you need a hassle-free dinner option. Don’t miss out on this extra easy dinner; it’s a must-try for any home cook.
Get the Recipe: Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Fajita Baked Chicken

Cheesy chicken fajita bake in a baking pan.
Fajita Baked Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Fajita Baked Chicken is your go-to recipe for a quick and tasty midweek family dinner. Ready in just 30 minutes, it features chicken with cream cheese, sweet peppers, and mozzarella. With no complicated steps, it’s perfect for novice cooks. Serve it hot right out of the oven for a complete meal that’s convenient, flavorful, and filling. The fast preparation time makes it ideal for busy weeknights, so you can enjoy an extra easy dinner without sacrificing flavor.
Get the Recipe: Fajita Baked Chicken

Creamy Garlic Chicken

A white skillet of creamy garlic chicken garnished with herbs.
Creamy Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Creamy Garlic Chicken is a one-pan wonder that takes only 30 minutes from start to finish. The garlic cream sauce adds a rich texture to the chicken, making it more flavorful and filling. Serve it with steamed vegetables or rice for a complete meal. The straightforward steps make this a solid choice for beginners in the kitchen. Because it uses common pantry items, you likely won’t have to make a special shopping trip. Enjoy this extra easy dinner that’s perfect for midweek meals.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Hungarian Mushroom Soup

A bowl of Hungarian mushroom soup with a gold spoon.
Hungarian Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Hungarian Mushroom Soup is your answer for a warming, flavorful midweek family dinner that comes together in one pot in just 45 minutes. With its easy steps, this soup is a hit for cooks of all skill levels. For busy midweek nights, this recipe provides a practical and impressive meal option that the whole family can enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Hungarian Mushroom Soup

Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

A casserole dish with meat and spinach in it.
Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach is the solution for a complete midweek family dinner in about 30 minutes. It combines ground beef, cauliflower rice, and spinach under a layer of melted cheddar cheese. Assembly is straightforward, taking around 30 minutes from start to finish. All ingredients are mixed and baked in one dish, making for easy cleanup. The casserole stores well, offering leftovers for the next day if you’re cooking for a smaller group. Its simplicity and comfort-food vibe make it a go-to for weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

A glass bowl of jalapeño popper chicken salad ingredients.
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad combines the spiciness of jalapeños with the creaminess of a mayo-based dressing. Chicken adds a hearty protein element, making it more than just a side dish. It’s an ideal recipe for those new to the kitchen due to its simple ingredient list and easy-to-follow steps. Plus, the salad holds well in the fridge for leftovers. No special cooking techniques are required, making it a practical choice for a quick meal.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Tuscan garlic shrimp and spinach with tomatoes in a pan.
Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach dish comes together quickly in just 30 minutes. The one-pan preparation minimizes cleanup and makes the cooking process seamless. It combines shrimp, garlic, tomatoes, and spinach for a balanced meal that is both nutritious and flavorful. The steps are simple enough to follow, making this dish practically foolproof for beginner cooks.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

Creamy sun dried tomato chicken served on a plate.
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

In just 30 minutes, this Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken recipe delivers a complete meal using just one pan. The boneless, skinless chicken thighs cook to perfection in a rich sun dried tomato sauce. The simplicity of the recipe’s steps makes it a great choice for those new to cooking. You can pair this dish with rice or pasta for a more filling experience. Quick to make and easy to clean up, it’s a practical option for a weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Fried cabbage with bacon garnished with parsley in a pot.
Fried Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Fried Cabbage with Bacon is a quick meal solution that’s ready in about 25 minutes. Combining cabbage, bacon, and onion in one pan, it required minimal cleanup. The recipe’s simplicity makes it great for those new to cooking or with limited time. It’s a standalone meal that doesn’t require additional side dishes, simplifying dinner planning. The quick cooking time makes it a convenient choice for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Canned Chicken Patties

A plate with broccoli and chicken patties on it.
Canned Chicken Patties. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Canned Chicken Patties require just 20 minutes of prep time and provide a convenient dinner solution. The use of canned chicken ensures that even those who are new to cooking can manage this recipe effortlessly. You can serve these patties on their own or use them to create sandwiches. The recipe is versatile enough to be incorporated into various meal plans. The quick preparation time makes it ideal for those who are short on time but still want a homemade meal.
Get the Recipe: Canned Chicken Patties

Big Mac Salad

Hands scooping up a serving of bacon cheeseburger salad from a bowl.
Big Mac Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Big Mac Salad captures the essence of a popular fast-food item but leaves out the bun for a lighter touch. Assembling the salad requires ingredients like lettuce, ground beef, and a homemade special sauce. This recipe is a great option for those new to cooking, given its straightforward steps. Serve this dish as a main course to have a complete meal that’s easy to prepare. With such a simple recipe, it’s a great way to enjoy fast-food flavors without leaving the house.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Salad

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

Spoon scooping up jalapeño popper casserole from a baking dish.
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

This Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole offers a spicy and creamy flavor profile, ready in under an hour. All ingredients, including chicken, bacon, cream cheese, and jalapeños, are mixed and baked in one dish, simplifying both preparation and cleanup. This makes it a perfect dish for those new to cooking or those looking for convenience. Serve it hot straight from the oven for a comforting meal. This casserole is ideal when you’re seeking comfort food but don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers

A chicken bacon ranch popper skewered by a toothpick.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

For a fun main dish, try these Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers. These poppers are incredibly easy to make, and they’re perfect for midweek family dinners. Made with ground chicken, crispy bacon, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and a blend of flavorful spices, they’re a filling meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, they’re paired with a creamy ranch dipping sauce, or you can serve them on their own.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers

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