Are you tired of the same old weeknight meals? Do you find yourself stuck in a culinary rut, wondering what to make for dinner that won’t take all evening to prepare? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 flavorful main dish recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort food to international-inspired dishes, these recipes offer something for everyone.
Whether you’re a fan of chicken, beef, seafood, or veggies, our collection has got you covered. And the best part? Each recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor – so you can get dinner on the table in no time. So go ahead, take a look at some of these mouth-watering options below…
Garlic Butter Herb Roasted Chicken
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This Garlic Butter Herb Roasted Chicken is infused with the savory flavors of garlic, butter, and fresh herbs, resulting in a juicy and aromatic roast.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, parsley, and thyme.
3. Stuff the chicken cavity with the garlic-butter mixture.
4. Season the outside of the chicken with salt and pepper.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and flavorful Creamy Tuscan Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe, featuring succulent shrimp, savory garlic, and a velvety cream sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., linguine or fettuccine)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Add shrimp to the skillet; cook until pink and cooked through (about 2-3 minutes per side).
4. Remove shrimp from skillet; set aside with pasta.
5. In the same skillet, add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese; stir until smooth and creamy.
6. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and sauce in a serving dish. Toss to coat evenly.
7. Sprinkle with parsley and red pepper flakes (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Honey Soy Glazed Salmon with Rice
This recipe combines the rich flavors of honey, soy sauce, and ginger to create a sticky glaze for salmon fillets, served atop a flavorful rice dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp grated ginger
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and ginger.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the glaze evenly over each fillet.
4. Drizzle rice with vegetable oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake salmon for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve glazed salmon atop flavored rice.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Recipe
Transform classic French cuisine into a comforting, slow-cooked dish with this recipe for Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon. Tender beef and rich flavors come together in a hearty meal perfect for chilly evenings.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the beef with salt and pepper.
2. In the slow cooker, combine the onion, garlic, mushrooms, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme.
3. Add the beef to the slow cooker and stir to coat with the sauce.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
One-Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Steak
Elevate your dinner game with this show-stopping One-Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Steak recipe, where tender beef meets bright citrus and rich buttery goodness. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
5. Remove from heat, squeeze lemon juice, and place in oven for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked to desired doneness.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Spicy Thai Coconut Curry with Chicken
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this spicy curry dish that combines tender chicken with creamy coconut milk and a kick of heat from red chilies. Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium red chilies, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons curry paste
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. In the same pan, add chopped chilies, garlic, and ginger; cook 1 minute.
4. Stir in curry paste and cook for an additional minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk, water, and fish sauce (if using); bring to a simmer.
6. Add cooked chicken back into the curry sauce; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Vegetable Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce
A classic Italian dish that never goes out of style, this vegetable lasagna is a hearty and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Béchamel sauce (see below for recipe)
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Béchamel Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
4. Spread a layer of Béchamel sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles on top.
5. Spread half of the vegetable mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the mozzarella cheese.
6. Repeat layers, finishing with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Smoked Paprika Pork Chops with Apples
A sweet and savory combination of flavors, this recipe brings together the richness of smoked paprika with the natural sweetness of apples. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1 inch thick)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2-3 apples, sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture evenly onto both sides of the pork chops.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Meanwhile, add sliced apples to the skillet and pour in chicken broth. Simmer over medium heat until the apples are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
7. Serve the pork chops with the caramelized apple mixture spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Grilled Cajun Spiced Shrimp Skewers
Add a spicy kick to your outdoor gatherings with these flavorful shrimp skewers, infused with the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Let sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Thread marinated shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe, featuring sautéed mushrooms and spinach stuffed inside juicy chicken breasts. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, sauté mushrooms and garlic until tender. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the mushroom-spinach mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of the filling.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s ready in just 20 minutes! This recipe combines the savory flavor of beef with the crunch of broccoli, all wrapped up in a sweet and sour sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, broccoli, and garlic to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sugar.
5. Pour sauce into the pan and stir to combine with broccoli mixture.
6. Return beef to the pan and stir-fry everything together for 1-2 minutes, or until beef is coated in sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Mediterranean Baked Cod with Olives
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the freshness of cod with the savory taste of olives, perfect for a quick and easy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and oregano. Brush the mixture evenly over each cod fillet.
5. Top each cod fillet with sliced olives.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart
Elevate your dinner party with this stunning Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart, perfect for fall gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a large skillet, caramelize onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deep golden brown. Season with salt.
4. Spread caramelized onions evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese and chopped thyme over the onions.
6. Brush egg wash over the edges of the pastry to create a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lamb Kebabs with Mint Yogurt Sauce
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these flavorful lamb kebabs served with a refreshing mint yogurt sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or leg, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add lamb cubes and toss to coat.
3. Thread lamb onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, mix yogurt, mint, and honey in a bowl.
6. Serve kebabs with mint yogurt sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Smoky BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Elevate your sandwich game with this tender and flavorful pulled pork recipe, infused with the deep smokiness of barbecue. This classic comfort food is perfect for a backyard gathering or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup Smoky BBQ Rub (see below)
– 1 cup wood chips (such as applewood or hickory)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw and pickles for topping (optional)
Smoky BBQ Rub:
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (or use a slow cooker).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Smoky BBQ Rub and brown sugar.
3. Season the pork shoulder with the rub mixture, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Smoke or cook the pork for 8-10 hours, or until tender and easily shredded.
5. In a small saucepan, combine honey, apple cider vinegar, and wood chips (if using). Heat over low heat for 10 minutes.
6. Shred the pork with two forks and toss with BBQ sauce mixture.
7. Serve on hamburger buns with coleslaw and pickles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Jerk Chicken with Coconut Rice and Beans
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this vibrant dish that combines tender chicken, creamy coconut rice, and rich beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together jerk seasoning, garlic, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
3. Add chicken and toss to coat evenly.
4. Cook chicken in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine cooked rice and coconut milk in a medium saucepan.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
7. Add black beans and stir to combine.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve chicken on top of coconut rice and beans. Garnish with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Ratatouille with Herbed Polenta
This classic Provençal dish combines the flavors of roasted vegetables, aromatic herbs, and creamy polenta. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
For the Ratatouille:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
For the Herbed Polenta:
– 1 cup polenta
– 4 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss eggplant, bell peppers, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. In a large pot, combine roasted vegetables, diced tomatoes, and chopped basil (if using). Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Cook polenta according to package instructions. Stir in butter, thyme, and salt.
6. Serve ratatouille over herbed polenta.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pesto Grilled Salmon with Asparagus
This recipe combines the rich flavors of pesto with the tender taste of grilled salmon, paired with crispy asparagus. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together pesto and olive oil.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the salmon fillets.
4. Place the salmon on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toss asparagus with salt and pepper. Grill in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until tender.
6. Serve the grilled salmon with roasted asparagus and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Turkey Tenderloin
Elevate your grilled turkey game with this refreshing and flavorful recipe, perfect for a summer dinner party or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) turkey tenderloin
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and rosemary.
3. Place turkey tenderloin in the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Let it sit for 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Remove turkey from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill turkey for 8-10 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Let turkey rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
A comforting and flavorful dish that combines the goodness of chicken, broccoli, and cheese. This casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 1/2 cups cooked white rice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add broccoli and stir until tender.
4. In a separate bowl, combine milk, cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
6. Layer the casserole: rice, chicken mixture, cheese sauce. Repeat two more times, ending with cheese on top.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 mouthwatering main dish recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort food to international twists, these flavorful dishes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Try Garlic Butter Herb Roasted Chicken, Creamy Tuscan Garlic Shrimp Pasta, or Honey Soy Glazed Salmon with Rice. For a hearty option, opt for Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon or Spicy Thai Coconut Curry with Chicken. These recipes offer endless possibilities for a delicious and stress-free dinner.
