13 Dinners That Make Bread and Pasta Look Overrated

If you’re tired of the same old dinner routine with bread and pasta, it’s time to switch things up. These dinner recipes show that you don’t need carbs as the star of your meal to enjoy a flavorful, filling dish. Whether you’re looking for fresh ideas or just something new, these recipes will have you forgetting about your usual go-to options. They’re easy to prepare and packed with great flavors that prove you don’t need bread or pasta to make a satisfying dinner. Give your meals a fresh, exciting makeover with these recipes that stand out on their own.

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.

A rich, creamy pasta that’s both simple and satisfying, Pasta Carbonara is a go-to dish for dinner. With crispy pancetta and a velvety sauce, it delivers comforting flavors in every bite. This dish is perfect for both casual meals and special nights in. Get the recipe: Pasta Carbonara

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 packed with flavor, making them a fun and easy dinner. The tender chicken pairs perfectly with a crunchy homemade slaw, all nestled in soft buns. A quick and satisfying meal for any occasion. Get the recipe: BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw

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.

Pork Lo Mein is a simple and satisfying dish that comes together in minutes. Using an Instant Pot, you can create tender pork, fresh veggies, and noodles in a savory sauce for a quick meal. It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures in one bowl. 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 at home is quick and straightforward to make, and the results are far better than ordering out. With a simple crust and fresh toppings, you can enjoy a crispy yet chewy base topped with smooth tomato sauce, melted cheese, and aromatic basil. Get the recipe: Easy Margherita Pizza

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.

A cheesy casserole that’s sure to bring comfort to any meal, this mac and cheese dish is perfect for a family dinner. Rich, creamy, and filling, it’s an easy choice for busy nights or special gatherings. The classic flavors everyone loves come together in one dish. 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.

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy, comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly nights. The sharp cheddar cheese pairs wonderfully with the healthy crunch of broccoli, creating a dish that’s both filling and flavorful. A great option for a cozy dinner. Get the recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Lasagna Soup

Lasagna Soup gives you all the rich flavors of lasagna without the time-consuming layers. Hearty, warm, and packed with familiar ingredients, it’s an easy one-pot dinner that everyone will love. Perfect for a weeknight meal with minimal cleanup. Get the recipe: Lasagna Soup

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 a simple, crispy dish that feels fancy enough for a special dinner. The panko coating adds crunch while the Romano cheese brings a salty kick, making it a great weeknight dinner. It’s a flavorful meal that requires little effort to make. 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 a one-pan wonder that combines all the best flavors of enchiladas without the mess. Tender chicken, flavorful sauce, and a layer of melted cheese come together in minutes. It’s a great dinner choice for a busy night. 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.

Sticky Wings are a crowd-pleasing dinner with a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The caramelized sauce gives these wings a mouthwatering finish that’s perfect for game days or casual family meals. A great way to enjoy wings at home without the mess. 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 flavorful, balanced meal that comes together easily. With caramelized chicken and crisp vegetables, all coated in a rich teriyaki sauce, it’s a simple yet satisfying dinner option. Perfect for a quick and tasty weeknight meal. Get the recipe: Chicken Teriyaki and Vegetables

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 makes dinner easy with minimal cleanup. Tender steak and roasted broccoli come together on one pan for a quick, flavorful meal. It’s an ideal option for busy weeknights or when you want something simple but satisfying. Get the recipe: Sheet Pan Beef and Broccoli

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 great dinner option when you want a meal that’s both savory and a bit sweet. The tangy mustard and honey marinade enhances the chicken, making it a simple yet flavorful choice for any night. A perfect meal for those who love balanced flavors. Get the recipe: Honey Mustard Chicken