13 Dinners So Easy, They Practically Cook Themselves

Dinner time can feel stressful, especially when you’re short on time. But with the right recipes, you can make easy dinners that practically cook themselves. These meals require minimal effort but still taste great. Perfect for busy nights or when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, these simple dishes will help you get a satisfying meal on the table in no time. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, these recipes are foolproof and quick. Say goodbye to complicated dinner prep and hello to easy, delicious meals.

Mac and Cheese Casserole

A plate of creamy macaroni and cheese with a golden breadcrumb topping sits on a wooden table. A baking dish with more macaroni and cheese and a white cloth can be seen in the background. — Mac and Cheese Casserole. Photo credit: Easy Everyday Food.

This mac and cheese casserole delivers comforting, cheesy goodness in every bite. It’s the perfect dish for family meals or whenever you want something warm and filling with minimal effort. The creamy, cheesy layers make it a go-to for easy dinners. Get the recipe: Mac and Cheese Casserole

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

A spoonful of broccoli soup is being served from a bread bowl. The soup contains visible broccoli florets and shredded carrots. In the background, a fresh broccoli head is partially visible on a marble surface. — Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Photo credit: Easy Everyday Food.

Broccoli cheddar soup is the ultimate comfort food in a bowl. The creamy, cheesy base is perfectly balanced with tender broccoli, creating a meal that’s warm and satisfying. It’s an easy, wholesome dinner that everyone will love. Get the recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Pasta Carbonara

Two plates of spaghetti carbonara topped with grated cheese and bacon bits, set on a white marble surface. A striped cloth is partially visible in the background. — Pasta Carbonara. Photo credit: Easy Everyday Food.

Pasta carbonara is a deliciously simple dish that blends creamy sauce with crispy pancetta and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s an easy dinner that brings rich flavors with very little effort. This comforting classic is ideal for any night of the week when you’re craving something satisfying. Get the recipe: Pasta Carbonara

Pork Lo Mein

A bowl of stir-fried noodles with vegetables and tofu on a white wooden surface. Ingredients include carrots, red peppers, leafy greens, and sprinkled sesame seeds. A pair of chopsticks rests on the bowl's edge. — Pork Lo Mein. Photo Credit: Easy Everyday Food.

This pork lo mein is a satisfying meal that’s quick and full of flavor. Made in the Instant Pot, tender pork, fresh veggies, and savory noodles are all tossed together in a delicious sauce. It’s an easy dinner that will quickly become a favorite in your weekly rotation. Get the recipe: Pork Lo Mein

BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw

A plate of pulled pork sliders topped with coleslaw sits on an orange placemat. The buns are golden and slightly open, revealing the colorful slaw and tender pork. A wedge of lemon and a small salad are in the background.

These BBQ chicken sliders bring big, bold flavors in a small, easy-to-eat package. Tender chicken smothered in smoky BBQ sauce is paired with a crunchy homemade slaw and served on soft, golden buns. They’re perfect for a casual dinner or gathering without any hassle. Get the recipe: BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw

Lasagna Soup

If you love lasagna but don’t have the time to make it, this lasagna soup is the perfect alternative. Packed with all the flavors of traditional lasagna, it’s a hearty meal that’s quick to prepare. One pot and minimal effort give you a deliciously satisfying dinner. Get the recipe: Lasagna Soup

Sheet Pan Beef and Broccoli

Sheet Pan Broccoli and Beef on a baking dish — Sheet Pan Broccoli and Beef. Photo credit: Easy Everyday Food.

This sheet pan beef and broccoli is an easy dinner that requires minimal prep and cleanup. Tender steak and roasted broccoli come together on one pan, making it a simple and satisfying meal. It’s a flavorful option for busy nights when you want something tasty without all the fuss. Get the recipe: Sheet Pan Beef and Broccoli

Crusted Chicken Romano

A breaded and fried chicken cutlet is garnished with parsley and served on a white plate, placed on a patterned tablecloth. — Crusted Chicken Romano. Photo credit: Easy Everyday Food.

Crusted chicken Romano is an easy dinner that feels fancy without much effort. The crispy breadcrumb coating and salty Romano cheese create a delightful crunch on each bite of tender chicken. It’s a satisfying meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight. Get the recipe: Crusted Chicken Romano

Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Skillet

A skillet filled with a dish topped with melted cheese, sliced jalapeños, avocado, chopped cilantro, and a red sauce. There are colorful bell peppers and diced onions mixed with quinoa beneath the toppings. — Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Skillet. Photo credit: Easy Everyday Food.

This cheesy chicken enchilada skillet is an easy, one-pan meal bursting with bold flavors. Tender chicken and enchilada sauce are topped with melted cheese, making for a comforting and satisfying dinner. It’s the perfect go-to for a quick and flavorful weeknight meal. Get the recipe: Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Skillet

Chicken Teriyaki and Vegetables

Sheet pan with roasted chicken pieces, broccoli, red bell peppers, and red onions glazed in a thick, glossy sauce. The vegetables and chicken are caramelized, creating a vibrant, appetizing dish. — Chicken Teriyaki and Vegetables. Photo credit: The Happy Body Project.

Chicken teriyaki with vegetables is an easy and flavorful dinner option. The caramelized chicken pairs perfectly with crisp, tender vegetables, all coated in a rich homemade teriyaki sauce. It’s a well-rounded, tasty dish that’s simple to prepare and always hits the mark. Get the recipe: Chicken Teriyaki and Vegetables

Sticky Wings

A plate of glazed chicken wings garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. The wings are served on a blue plate, set on a white marble surface. A blue cloth is visible in the background. — Sticky Wings. Photo credit: Easy Everyday Food.

These sticky wings are packed with sweet and savory flavors that everyone will love. The caramelized finish and rich sauce make them a standout dish for any occasion. Whether you’re having a casual dinner or serving them at a party, these wings will be a hit. Get the recipe: Sticky Wings

Ham and Cheese Wraps

Tortilla pinwheels filled with ham, cheese, and vegetables are cut in half and served on a marble surface. A small white bowl of dipping sauce is nearby. Garnished with chopped herbs. — Ham and Cheese Wraps. Photo credit: Easy Everyday Food.

These ham and cheese wraps are a simple and satisfying meal that you can whip up in no time. With creamy pimento cheese sauce, savory ham, and soft tortillas, they offer a delicious combination of flavors. A great option for an easy lunch or light dinner. Get the recipe: Ham and Cheese Wraps

Honey Mustard Chicken

A plate with four pieces of glazed, seasoned roasted chicken thighs garnished with fresh green leaves. The plate is on a woven mat with utensils nearby, creating a rustic table setting. — Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Easy Everyday Food.

Honey mustard chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser. The sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce creates a mouthwatering marinade for tender chicken. It’s an effortless meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Get the recipe: Honey Mustard Chicken