13 Dinners That Fill You Up Without Weighing You Down

When it comes to dinner, it’s important to find meals that keep you full without making you feel sluggish. You want something that will fuel you through the evening without weighing you down. There are plenty of great dinner ideas that give you the right balance of taste and nutrition without leaving you stuffed. These recipes are perfect for anyone looking for a satisfying meal that won’t slow you down. With the right ingredients and a little creativity, you can enjoy a filling dinner that leaves you feeling energized, not heavy.

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.

Mac and cheese casserole is the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. It’s rich, cheesy, and perfect for family dinners or special gatherings. This dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Get the recipe: Mac and Cheese Casserole

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 classic that’s both creamy and savory. The crispy pancetta pairs perfectly with the smooth sauce and al dente pasta. It’s a simple dinner that’s both elegant and 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 great dinner option when you want something hearty and full of flavor. Made in the Instant Pot, it combines tender pork, savory noodles, and fresh vegetables in a rich sauce. It’s a satisfying meal in no time. Get the recipe: Pork Lo Mein

Easy Margherita Pizza

A pizza topped with cheese, basil, and spinach leaves is served on a white plate, with slices partially cut. In the background, there's a bowl of salad, a fork, cherry tomatoes, and mint leaves on a gray surface. — Easy Margherita Pizza. Photo credit: Trina Krug.

Margherita pizza is simple to make at home and tastes far better than store-bought. With fresh ingredients and a hot oven, you’ll get a crispy crust topped with savory tomato sauce and melted mozzarella. It’s the perfect option for a quick and satisfying dinner. Get the recipe: Easy Margherita Pizza

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 are perfect for a casual meal with big flavor. Tender chicken coated in tangy BBQ sauce is paired with crunchy homemade slaw and served on soft rolls. It’s an easy, tasty dinner that everyone can enjoy. Get the recipe: BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw

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 a comforting bowl of creamy goodness. The sharp cheddar cheese blends perfectly with fresh broccoli, creating a hearty and flavorful meal. It’s an easy and satisfying dinner that will warm you up. Get the recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Lasagna Soup

Lasagna Soup gives you all the classic flavors of lasagna without the hassle of layering. It’s a hearty, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and perfect for a busy night. The combination of pasta, meat, and cheese will leave everyone wanting more. 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.

Sheet Pan Beef and Broccoli is a fast and flavorful dinner that requires just one pan. Tender marinated steak and roasted broccoli are cooked together, making cleanup a breeze. It’s a great choice when you need a quick, satisfying meal. Get the recipe: Sheet Pan Beef and Broccoli

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 a one-pan wonder, full of bold enchilada flavor. Tender chicken, melted cheese, and a bit of spice come together to create a satisfying dinner. It’s quick, easy, and full of flavor. Get the recipe: Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Skillet

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 sweet, savory, and packed with flavor. The caramelized glaze gives them the perfect balance of flavors, making them a great dinner or appetizer. Serve them up for any occasion, and they’ll be a hit. Get the recipe: Sticky Wings

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 and Vegetables is a simple yet satisfying meal with tender chicken and fresh vegetables. The homemade teriyaki sauce adds a rich, savory flavor that brings everything together. It’s a quick and balanced dinner that’s easy to prepare. Get the recipe: Chicken Teriyaki and Vegetables

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 brings together savory chicken thighs with a sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that makes for an easy and crowd-pleasing dinner. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete meal. Get the recipe: Honey Mustard Chicken

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 combines crispy panko with the sharp flavor of Romano cheese for a satisfying dinner. The golden-brown coating gives a crunchy texture that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken. It’s an easy weeknight meal that tastes like something special. Get the recipe: Crusted Chicken Romano