20 Easy Dinner Recipes for Family

Dinner can sometimes feel like just another chore on your never-ending to-do list. After a long day, the last thing you want is to spend hours in the kitchen figuring out what to cook. In fact, according to a survey by Harvard Business Review, 73% of working parents say they don’t have enough time to cook dinner every night. Additionally, research shows that Americans spend an average of only 37 minutes preparing and cleaning up after meals each day.

That’s why we’ve compiled a list of 20 easy family dinner recipes that are simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to satisfy everyone at the table! Home-cooked meals tend to be healthier and more cost effective than eating out, with families saving an average of $9 per meal by cooking at home. From hearty beef dishes to light seafood meals and healthy salads, there’s something for everyone!

20 Easy Dinner Recipes for Family

Prep Time: 10-20 minutes per recipe | Cook Time: 15-45 minutes per recipe

Servings: 4-5 

1. Honey Garlic Salmon

This honey garlic salmon is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavors. The salmon is pan-seared to crispy perfection and then glazed with a mouthwatering honey garlic sauce made from soy sauce, butter, and fresh garlic. The caramelized glaze creates a rich, sticky coating that pairs beautifully with fluffy white rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is ideal for a busy weeknight when you want something satisfying yet healthy.

Try the Honey Garlic Salmon Recipe here.

2. Beef Stroganoff

Creamy, rich, and incredibly satisfying, beef stroganoff is a dinner favorite that never fails to impress. Tender strips of beef are sautéed with onions and mushrooms before being simmered in a luxurious sour cream sauce. Serve it over buttery egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or even rice for a warm, comforting meal that the whole family will love. 

Try the Beef Stroganoff Recipe.

3. Tuna Noodle Casserole

A classic comfort food dish, this tuna noodle casserole is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Made with tender egg noodles, flaked tuna, and a velvety cheese sauce, this dish is baked to perfection with a crispy breadcrumb topping. It’s a great way to use pantry staples, making it an affordable and easy meal to throw together in a pinch. 

Try the Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe here.

4. Beef and Potato Pie

This beef and potato pie is a warm and hearty dish that combines flavorful ground beef with a creamy, cheesy mashed potato topping. Once baked, the top becomes golden and slightly crispy, making it irresistibly good. Serve it with steamed green beans or a side of roasted carrots for a complete meal that’s as cozy as it is delicious.

Try the Beef and Potato Pie Recipe here.

5. Roasted Pumpkin Salad

If you’re looking for a fresh and healthy dinner option, this roasted pumpkin salad is a must-try! The combination of roasted pumpkin, creamy cheese, avocado, crisp lettuce, and crunchy seeds creates the perfect blend of textures and flavors. A light balsamic dressing ties everything together, making it a well-balanced dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying. This salad works as a light dinner or as a side dish for grilled meats or roasted chicken. Plus, it’s packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making it a nutritious choice.

Try the Roasted Pumpkin Salad Recipe here.

6. Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

This creamy garlic chicken pasta is a rich, cheesy, and utterly comforting meal that comes together in just 30 minutes. Juicy chicken breast is cooked to golden perfection and then tossed with pasta in a luscious garlic Parmesan sauce. Serve it with garlic bread and a side salad for a complete dinner that feels indulgent without being complicated. Perfect for pasta lovers!

Try the Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe here.

7. French Onion Soup

A timeless classic, this French onion soup is warm, savory, and loaded with deep, rich flavors. The secret? Slowly caramelized onions that develop a natural sweetness and depth of flavor. Simmered in a beef broth and topped with a toasted baguette slice and melted cheese, this soup is pure comfort in a bowl. It’s the perfect dish for chilly evenings or when you need something cozy.

Try the French Onion Soup Recipe here.

8. Salmon with Butter Lemon Sauce

Simple yet elegant, this salmon with butter lemon sauce is our go-to quick and flavorful dinner. The salmon fillets are pan-seared until golden and flaky, then drizzled with a tangy butter lemon sauce that enhances their natural richness. Serve this dish with roasted asparagus, quinoa, or even a fresh cucumber salad. 

Try the Salmon with Butter Lemon Sauce Recipe here.

9. Easy Pork Chops

These easy pork chops are a delicious and simple way to prepare tender, juicy meat in no time. The pork chops are first seared to lock in moisture, then simmered in a creamy garlic sauce that makes them extra flavorful. The sauce is made with butter, garlic, and a touch of heavy cream, creating a rich and satisfying meal. Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or even roasted vegetables for a complete dinner that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Try the Easy Pork Chops Recipe here.

10. Chicken Salad

This chicken salad is a fantastic light meal option that’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or even eaten on its own. It’s made with tender shredded chicken, crisp vegetables, and a creamy dressing that balances flavor and texture beautifully. You can add extras like grapes, nuts, or avocado to customize the dish to your taste. It’s a great make-ahead meal, staying fresh for days in the fridge. 

Try the Chicken Salad Recipe here.

11. Chicken Pie

This homemade chicken pie is the ultimate comfort food. A creamy, savory filling made with tender chicken, vegetables, and a luscious sauce is encased in a golden, flaky crust. Every bite is packed with rich flavors, making it perfect for cozy family dinners. The buttery crust adds the perfect crunch, complementing the smooth, hearty filling. You can make it ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready, making it an easy go-to for busy evenings. Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Try the Chicken Pie Recipe here.

12. Garlic Lemon Shrimp Pasta

This garlic lemon shrimp pasta is light, flavorful, and ready in just 20 minutes! Juicy shrimp are sautéed with garlic and tossed with al dente pasta in a simple lemon-butter sauce. The bright citrus flavor pairs beautifully with the savory shrimp, while a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a touch of richness. This dish is perfect for nights when you want something quick yet gourmet. 

Try the Garlic Lemon Shrimp Pasta Recipe here.

13. Keto Stuffed Chicken Breast

If you’re following a low-carb diet, this keto-stuffed chicken breast is a fantastic option! Juicy chicken breasts are filled with a rich mixture of cheese, spinach, and seasonings, then baked to perfection with a crispy, cheesy topping. The result? A flavor-packed, satisfying meal that doesn’t feel like “diet food.” This dish is high in protein and incredibly filling, making it a great dinner option for anyone looking to cut carbs while still enjoying delicious, indulgent flavors. Serve with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

Try the Keto Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe here.

14. Korean Beef Bulgogi

If you love bold, savory-sweet flavors, this Korean beef bulgogi is a must-try. Thinly sliced beef is marinated in a delicious mix of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and a touch of sugar, then grilled or stir-fried to perfection. The result is tender, caramelized beef that’s bursting with umami flavor. Traditionally served with steamed white rice and kimchi, this dish is a fantastic way to bring Korean flavors to your dinner table.

Try the Korean Beef Bulgogi Recipe here.

15. Baked Feta Pasta

This baked feta pasta went viral for a reason—it’s creamy, rich, and incredibly easy to make! A block of feta cheese is roasted with cherry tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil until it becomes soft and melty, then tossed with cooked pasta for an irresistibly creamy dish.

Try the Baked Feta Pasta Recipe here.

16. Pasta with Salmon and Peas

For a light yet satisfying dinner, this pasta with salmon and peas is an excellent choice. Flaky, pan-seared salmon is tossed with pasta and tender peas in a creamy, garlic-infused sauce. The combination of rich salmon, fresh peas, and creamy sauce makes this dish both comforting and refreshing. 

Try the Pasta with Salmon and Peas Recipe here.

17. Easy Shrimp Salad

This shrimp salad is the perfect mix of fresh, crisp ingredients and flavorful, juicy shrimp. Sautéed garlic shrimp are tossed with crisp lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a creamy homemade dressing for a light yet satisfying meal. You can customize it by adding avocado, cucumbers, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese. Serve it as a main dish or alongside a soup for a well-rounded dinner. It’s refreshing, delicious, and comes together in under 15 minutes!

Try the Easy Shrimp Salad Recipe here.

18. Korean Fried Chicken

This Korean fried chicken is crispy, juicy, and coated in a sticky, spicy-sweet sauce that’s absolutely addicting! The chicken is double-fried to ensure extra crunch, then tossed in a bold sauce made with gochujang (Korean chili paste), garlic, soy sauce, and honey. The result? A perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and umami flavor. Serve it with white rice, pickled radish, or coleslaw for a complete meal.

Try the Korean Fried Chicken Recipe here.

19. Potato Leek Soup

Warm, creamy, and comforting, this potato leek soup is the perfect cozy dinner. Made with buttery leeks, soft potatoes, and a touch of cream, this soup is rich in flavor yet light enough for a balanced meal. The leeks add a mild sweetness, while the potatoes create a silky-smooth texture. It’s an easy one-pot meal that pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad. You can also top it with crispy bacon or fresh herbs for extra flavor!

Try the Potato Leek Soup Recipe here.

20. Pumpkin Risotto

If you love creamy, velvety risotto, then this pumpkin risotto is a must-try! Made with Arborio rice, pumpkin purée, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of nutmeg, this dish is both luxurious and comforting. The slow-cooked rice absorbs all the rich flavors, resulting in an ultra-creamy texture that’s packed with warmth and depth. It’s a perfect fall or winter meal but can be enjoyed year-round.

Try the Pumpkin Risotto Recipe here.

Which Recipe Will You Try First?

With 20 easy and delicious dinner ideas at your fingertips, there’s no need to stress over what to cook tonight! These recipes are designed to make weeknight dinners easier, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying a homemade meal with your loved ones.

Did we include your favorite go-to dinner recipe? Or do you have a family favorite that’s always a hit at the dinner table? Let us know in the comments which dish you’re excited to try, or share your own quick and easy dinner ideas to inspire others!

Kitchen Tools That Make Cooking Even Easier

To make your dinner prep even smoother, using the right kitchen tools is essential. Here are some must-have items that will help you cook like a pro:

• • Zulay Garlic Press – Perfect for mincing garlic effortlessly for dishes like Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta and Garlic Lemon Shrimp Pasta.
  • Meat Thermometer – Ensure your pork chops, chicken, and beef are cooked to perfection.
  • Silicone Spatula Set – Ideal for mixing, scraping, and spreading ingredients in your casseroles and pies.
  • Cast Iron Skillet – A game-changer for searing steaks, chicken, and even Korean Beef Bulgogi for that perfect caramelized crust.

Upgrade your kitchen and make cooking fun and effortless with these high-quality kitchen tools. Shop now at Zulay Kitchen and bring the joy back to homemade meals!

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