Gather around the table for these 12 family dinner ideas that you don’t want to miss. From hearty casseroles to quick stir-fries, these meals are perfect for busy evenings and will bring everyone together. Enjoy flavors that satisfy and create lasting memories.
Pesto Pasta
Whether you want to whip up a homemade pesto or buy pesto at the store, pasta with pesto is a delicious and relatively easy meal to prepare for hungry mouths. All you need are the noodles and the pesto, but you can add a protein like chicken, shrimp, or sausage to add some extra nutrients. Serve with your favorite simple veggies or a quick salad. Get the recipe
Chili
Making chili doesn’t take long once you prep all the ingredients, and you’ll only have to get one pot dirty with most recipes. That means less time cleaning and more time eating with your family. You can make many different types of this family favorite, like bean, meat, or even veggie chili. Get the recipe
Rattlesnake Pasta
Despite its wild name, Rattlesnake Pasta is a creamy, spicy pasta dish that’s absolutely delicious. It usually features penne pasta tossed in a creamy sauce with peppers, garlic, chicken, and a kick of heat from jalapeños or chili flakes. This dish is perfect for those who love a little spice in their life. It’s rich, flavorful, and guaranteed to impress at any family dinner. Get the recipe
Smoked Sausage and Rice
This dish is a hearty, comforting meal that combines the smokiness of sausage with the simplicity of rice. It’s a versatile recipe that can be spiced up or down according to taste. The smoked sausage infuses the rice with a rich flavor, while vegetables add a pop of color and nutrition. Perfect for a quick, satisfying family dinner. Get the recipe
Orange Chicken
Orange chicken is a beloved dish that balances sweet and tangy flavors, featuring crispy, deep-fried chicken pieces coated in a vibrant orange sauce. This dish is a staple in American-Chinese cuisine, loved for its sticky, sweet sauce with a hint of citrus. It’s an irresistible meal that pairs perfectly with steamed rice and vegetables for a complete family dinner. Get the recipe
Quiche
Quiche is a delectable savory pie made with eggs, milk, and often some veggies and protein. It’s simple to make because all it takes is mixing the ingredients and sticking the quiche in the oven for about 30 minutes or so. If you want to make your own pie crust, that may take some extra effort, but you can get your kids in the kitchen to help, making for a great family bonding experience!
Baked Pasta
Baked pasta like ziti and lasagna can be time-consuming, but most of that time is spent in the oven. Most baked pasta dishes are easy to prepare and require boiling pasta noodles and adding sauce, cheese, and protein or veggies. Other delicious baked pasta options include baked alfredo and cheesy broccoli pasta bake, which both only require a few simple ingredients. Add some parmesan cheese before serving, and everyone will be happy to chow down!
Taco Bar
Tacos are quick, affordable, and customizable, making taco night a pillar in many households. You can buy a simple taco kit at the grocery store or create your own from scratch. Cook the ground beef and set out some lettuce, tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, and guacamole so each family member can add their preferred toppings to their tacos.
Meatloaf
Meatloaf is a classic meal many families pass down from generation to generation. It’s also pretty simple to make. Mix the ground meat, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs before plopping the mixture into a tall-rimmed pan. Pair it with mashed or baked potatoes, and everyone’s tummies will grumble once the smells waft from the oven.
Gumbo
This hearty, spicy stew is Louisiana’s signature dish, and for good reason. It’s delicious, flavorful, and filling. Plus, it’s easier to make than you might think. It typically begins with a roux, which is just a mixture of butter and plain flour that thickens as it cooks. Some common ingredients include meat, shellfish, celery, bell peppers, onions, and rice. Get the recipe
Beef Stew
There are many ways to make a hearty beef stew that the whole family can enjoy for days. The beef, veggies, and thick broth simmer on the stove for hours, giving you time to multitask. It doesn’t hurt that the stew’s magnificent smell will waft throughout your house and excite everyone to dig in when it’s ready. Get the recipe
Honey Salmon
Not only is salmon nutritious, but it’s also simple to prepare at home. All you need to make your salmon delectable is honey, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Rub on the toppings and stick the fish in the oven for twenty minutes, and you’re ready to dig in. Pair it with some simple steamed veggies and rice.
Roast Chicken
Sometimes, nothing is more satisfying than a classic roast chicken. Not only can it feed many mouths, but it’s simple to prepare. After applying oil, herbs, and seasoning, stick it in the oven for an hour or more until it reaches the right temperature. Just check on it every so often so it stays moist and tender.
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