Outsmart the 5PM Panic and Bookmark These 17 Lazy Dinner Recipes


If you’re familiar with that sudden 5:00 PM panic when you realize you have no idea what to make for dinner, these lazy dinner recipes are about to become your new best friends. They’re the perfect solution for nights when you want a great meal without the stress of extra complicated cooking. Each recipe is a no-brainer, designed to help you whip up something quick, easy, and delicious.

Two shake and bake pork chops on a plate.
Shake and Bake Pork Chops. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

A casserole dish filled with pasta and peas.
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole is the perfect pick for a chill night when you just want to throw something together fast. In under an hour, you can mix egg noodles, canned tuna, frozen peas, and shredded cheese into a dish that comes out of the oven golden and ready to eat. And if you’re into planning ahead, it’s great for leftovers too. Just heat it up, and you’re good to go for another meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

A plate of garlic butter chicken bites.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites come together quickly, making them a fantastic option for those busy evenings when you still want a home-cooked meal but don’t have much time. In just 20 minutes, you can cook up these chicken bites on the stovetop, coating them in a mouthwatering buttery garlic sauce that’s full of flavor. This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t skimp on taste, thanks to a mix of spices, including Italian seasoning, black pepper, garlic powder, and a hint of cayenne for those who like a little heat. They’re incredibly versatile, too — serve them with rice, veggies, or tossed in a salad for a complete meal that’s delicious and quick.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Broccoli Casserole

A casserole dish with broccoli and cheese in it.
Broccoli Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

On the lookout for a no-hassle dinner? The Broccoli Casserole has got you covered. With just broccoli, cheese, and some basic seasonings, you’re all set for a meal that’s ready in about 50 minutes. It’s the kind of recipe that asks very little of you but delivers a lot in terms of flavor. Perfect for those evenings when you want to keep things simple but still end up with a meal that’s more than just passable. Throw a bit of extra cheese on top for that perfect finishing touch.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole

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.

This Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner is your shortcut to a great meal with barely any cleanup. Seriously, in 30 minutes, you’ve got roasted sausage and a bunch of veggies all done at once. It’s as easy as chopping, tossing them with some oil and spices, and throwing it all on a pan. This dish is perfect for those nights when you’re not feeling the whole cooking and cleaning routine but still want something good to eat. And it’s flexible too, so if you’re meal prepping or just need a quick dinner for the family, you’re all set. Plus, using just one pan means you’re not stuck washing a pile of dishes afterward. Just enjoy your food and relax.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Cabbage and Sausage

A pan of cabbage and sausage garnished with fresh herbs.
Cabbage and Sausage. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

When you’re looking for a quick dinner, Cabbage and Sausage is a smart pick. It’s as straightforward as cooking cabbage and sausage together in one pan for less than 30 minutes. This dish stands out for its ease and flavor, making it our go-to for a no-hassle meal. It pairs really well with some crusty bread on the side, perfect for soaking up all the great flavors.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage

Crock Pot Taco Soup

A crock pot full of chili and meat.
Crock Pot Taco Soup. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

This Crock Pot Taco Soup is all about making your dinner routine as easy as possible. It’s a bean-free soup that’s both low-carb and gluten-free, perfect for when you want something hearty without a lot of prep. You’ll just need 20 minutes to brown some ground beef, then toss that in the slow cooker with ingredients you probably already have. Set it, forget it, and in a few hours, you’ve got a delicious soup ready to go. Garnish it with your favorites, like sour cream or avocado, before serving to take it up a notch. Plus, it’s easy to store for later, making your efforts last even longer.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Taco Soup

Spinach Chicken Bake

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

For those nights when you’re not up for a lot, Spinach Chicken Bake comes to the rescue, ready in just 30 minutes. This dish involves simply tossing chicken, cheese, and spinach in a pan and baking it. It’s the answer for when you crave a good meal but don’t want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. Pairing it with a side salad or some garlic bread rounds out the meal nicely, and the leftovers keep well, making your life a bit easier for the next few days.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Chicken Bake

Shake and Bake Pork Chops

Shake and bake pork chops on a baking sheet.
Shake and Bake Pork Chops. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Shake and Bake Pork Chops are perfect for those lazy dinners when you want something great on the table fast, without having to stand over the stove. Ready in just 25 minutes, they’re crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and don’t require any frying. This recipe is super easy, making it a top choice for beginners or anyone who’s looking to keep dinner prep simple. It’s a hit with families and a solid way to get a good meal with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Shake and Bake Pork Chops

Fajita Baked Chicken

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

This Fajita Baked Chicken is a cheesy, flavorful dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it a great go-to for weeknight dinners. Starting with chicken breasts that are quickly brined to ensure juiciness, and then they’re seasoned with a homemade spice mix that packs a punch. The chicken is then topped with cream cheese, thinly sliced mini sweet peppers, and shredded mozzarella cheese. It’s a simple yet delicious meal that combines the comfort of baked chicken with the vibrant flavors of fajitas. Serve it straight from the oven, and feel free to add green onions, sour cream, or salsa on top for even more flavor. This dish is not only easy to make but also stores well, making it perfect for leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Fajita Baked 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 shortcut to a cozy evening, especially when you’re in the mood for something rich and hearty but don’t want to put in too much work. In about 45 minutes, you’ll be ladling out a bowl of this earthy, comforting soup. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread for the ultimate comfort food experience. If you have leftovers, they keep well in the fridge, making for an easy, flavorful meal tomorrow.
Get the Recipe: Hungarian Mushroom 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.

On those nights when cooking feels like a chore, the Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole is here to save the day. Combining broccoli, cauliflower, cheese, and bacon, it comes together quickly. With just 30 minutes from start to finish and minimal dishes to clean, this dish is about making your life easier while still enjoying a hearty meal. Adding a sprinkle of green onions on top before serving gives it a fresh, colorful touch. Leftovers, if you have any, are just as good the next day.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Chicken Corn Soup

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

This Chicken Corn Soup is perfect for laid-back evenings when you want something comforting without a lot of effort. In less than an hour, you’ve got a warm, inviting soup that’s perfect for winding down. Adding a dollop of sour cream and some fresh herbs before serving elevates it to a meal that feels like you’ve been cooking all day. Plus, it’s great for meal prep since it stores well in the fridge.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Corn Soup

Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

Two bowls of sweet potato and red pepper soup with sour cream and parsley.
Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup is the way to go when you’re looking for a stress-free dinner option. Ready in about an hour, it’s a simple yet flavorful soup that’s as comforting as it is easy to make. You can adjust the spices to match your taste, making it a versatile choice for any night. A garnish of sour cream and parsley adds a flavorful finish. Cool it down before refrigerating, and you’ve got a delicious meal ready to reheat and enjoy over the next few days.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Creamy ground beef skillet with cauliflower rice with a wooden spoon.
Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

For those times when you’re craving comfort food but the clock is ticking, the Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice comes to the rescue. It’s a comforting skillet meal that’s ready in 30 minutes, combining ground beef, cauliflower rice, mushrooms, and cheese into a delicious, no-fuss dinner. And the best part? The leftovers taste just as great the next day.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Creamy Garlic Chicken

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

In just 30 minutes, Creamy Garlic Chicken puts a flavorful, hearty meal on your table. With chicken breasts cooked on the stovetop in a creamy white sauce made with grated Parmesan cheese, garlic, and heavy cream, it’s a one-pan meal that’s as easy to clean up as it is to enjoy. Pair it with your favorite side for a complete meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Leftovers? They’re just as delicious when reheated, giving you a delicious meal option for busy days.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Italian Sausage Soup

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

Cap off a busy day with this hearty Italian Sausage Soup. Ready in 30 minutes, it effortlessly combines Italian sausage with tomatoes and Parmesan. Just sauté, simmer and serve. It’s a great choice for nights when you want something hearty without spending too much time cooking. Top with extra Parmesan cheese and serve with a piece of garlic bread for dipping. This soup stores well in the fridge for several days so you have a quick meal ready whenever you need it.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sausage Soup

Fried Cabbage with Bacon

A pan full of bacon and cabbage with a wooden spoon.
Fried Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Fried Cabbage with Bacon is a definite go-to if you’re looking for a quick, simple dinner. Fry some bacon until crispy, then sauté the cabbage in the same pan to soak up all that flavor. Ready in 20 minutes, it’s perfect for when time is tight. This dish can be served as is or with mashed potatoes for an extra-filling meal. Cool completely before storing in the fridge, and it’ll be good for up to three days.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

The post Outsmart the 5PM Panic and Bookmark These 17 Lazy Dinner Recipes appeared first on Real Balanced.


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