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Home » Dinner

23 Must-Try Recipes for a Lazy Dinner

Published: Oct 7, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

These must-try recipes are perfect when you want a great dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you're short on time or just feeling lazy, these dishes are the answer. Each one is packed with flavor and easy enough to whip up on even the busiest weeknight. If you're craving something that's both simple and satisfying, these recipes have you covered.

An overhead view of a cooked spicy vodka pasta in a white plate.
Spicy Vodka Pasta (with or without vodka!). Photo Credit: Urban Farmie

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Close-up image of broccolii cheddar soup.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Photo Credit: Parallel Plates

Creamy and cheesy, this broccoli cheddar soup is a comforting bowl of warmth that's ready in just 35 minutes. Perfect for those chilly evenings, this easy soup is packed with flavor and loaded with vegetables, making it an excellent choice for a relaxed dinner.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Easy Homemade Margherita Pizza

Close-up image of sliced homemade Margherita pizza.
Easy Homemade Margherita Pizza. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

This homemade Margherita pizza uses fresh ingredients and is ready in just 20 minutes, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights. With a crispy crust topped with gooey mozzarella and fragrant basil, this simple pizza delivers a delightful taste of Italy without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Easy Homemade Margherita Pizza

Baked Gouda Mac and Cheese

An overhead image of a cooked gouda mac and cheese in a baking pan.
Baked Gouda Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Baked Gouda mac and cheese brings a rich, creamy texture to the table with minimal prep time—comfort food ready in just 45 minutes. This easy recipe combines gooey cheese and perfectly cooked pasta, ensuring a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Baked Gouda Mac and Cheese

Eggplant Casserole

An eggplant casserole in a baking dish, accompanied by a wooden spoon.
Eggplant Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This eggplant casserole layers savory vegetables, herbs, and melted cheese, creating a hearty dish that's both easy to prepare and comforting for any dinner. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this casserole is a go-to for a simple, tasty meal that requires little effort.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Casserole

Spicy Alfredo Pasta

An overhead iimage of two spicy alfredo pasta in a white plate.
Spicy Alfredo Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Spicy Alfredo pasta features a creamy red pepper sauce and comes together in just 30 minutes. This one-pot recipe makes for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner, bringing bold flavors to your table with minimal cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Alfredo Pasta

Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole

An image of vegetarian enchilada casserole in a clear baking dish.
Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This vegetarian enchilada casserole is packed with hearty vegetables and homemade enchilada sauce, creating a cozy, cheesy meal. Ready in just 45 minutes, it's a simple yet flavorful choice for busy weeknights when you want a comforting dish without much fuss.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole

Air Fryer Nachos

A close-up imag of loaded nachos topped with melted cheese, avocado chunks, black beans, diced tomatoes, green onions, and dollops of sour cream.
Air Fryer Nachos. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Air fryer nachos are the perfect solution for a quick appetizer, taking less than 10 minutes to prepare. With layers of cheese, jalapeños, and your favorite toppings, these nachos are sure to be a hit at any gathering, making them an effortless addition to your dinner plans.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Nachos

Spicy Vodka Pasta

An overhead view of a cooked spicy vodka pasta in a white plate.
Spicy Vodka Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This spicy vodka pasta can easily be made without vodka, making it a versatile option for any preference. Ready in 30 minutes, this recipe is a great choice for a flavorful weeknight dinner or a romantic date night without the hassle of complex preparation.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Vodka Pasta

Squash Casserole with Stuffing

An image of Squash Casserole in a baking dish.
Squash Casserole with Stuffing. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Squash casserole with stuffing is a hearty side dish that features roasted yellow squash and flavorful condiments. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for holidays or any casual dinner, offering comfort and flavor in each bite.
Get the Recipe: Squash Casserole with Stuffing

Easy Microwave Mac and Cheese

An overhead image of microwave mac and cheese in a bowl with a spoon.
Easy Microwave Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Microwave mac and cheese is quick, creamy, and ready in just a few minutes, making it the perfect choice when you need an effortless comfort meal. This straightforward recipe is ideal for busy days or late-night cravings, ensuring you never have to compromise on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Easy Microwave Mac and Cheese

Beans and Cornbread

Beans and cornbread served together in a bowl.
Beans and Cornbread. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Beans and cornbread is a classic Southern dish that is hearty and simple to make. With straightforward ingredients and minimal effort, this comforting meal is perfect for cold evenings when you want something filling and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Beans and Cornbread

Pasta e Piselli

An image of Pasta e Piselli served in a bowl.
Pasta e Piselli. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Pasta e piselli is a simple Italian dish made with peas and Pecorino cheese, providing a quick and satisfying meal. This recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for those busy weeknights when you crave something hearty and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Piselli

Savory Sweet Potato Casserole

An angled shot of savory sweet potato casserole served in a baking dish.
Savory Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Savory sweet potato casserole features roasted sweet potatoes and a honey walnut topping, offering a great alternative to traditional dishes. With its easy preparation and comforting flavors, this casserole is perfect for both holiday meals and casual weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Savory Sweet Potato Casserole

Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

An overhead image of sun dried tomato pasta in a rectangular dish.
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Creamy sun-dried tomato pasta is a one-pot dish that's ready in just 30 minutes, loaded with sun-dried tomatoes and ricotta cheese. This recipe is a fantastic choice for those who want a comforting meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

Cheesy Green Bean Casserole

An image of a white plate with a serving of cheesy green bean casserole with a fork on the side, and the casserole behind it.
Cheesy Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Cheesy green bean casserole combines crispy green beans with a golden topping, coming together in just 30 minutes. This easy-to-make side dish is perfect for holiday gatherings or a simple family dinner, adding a touch of comfort to your table.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Green Bean Casserole

Easy, Cheesy Asparagus Casserole

A close up view of a cooked asparagus casserole in a baking dish.
Easy, Cheesy Asparagus Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Asparagus casserole features tender asparagus, crunchy breadcrumbs, and a creamy cheddar topping, making it a family favorite. Ready in just 45 minutes, this easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a veggie-packed side without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Easy, Cheesy Asparagus Casserole

Vegetable Pot Pie

An image of vegetable pot pie in a baking dish, with a portion missing.
Vegetable Pot Pie. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegetable pot pie is filled with tender veggies in a savory sauce and topped with a flaky pastry crust. This hearty meal is easy to prepare and perfect for any night when you want a comforting dish that requires minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Pot Pie

Green Bean Casserole with Cream Cheese

A  Green Bean Casserole with Cream Cheese topped with a golden-brown crust and garnished with sliced green onions.
Green Bean Casserole with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Green bean casserole with cream cheese is a quick and easy dish that can be made with fresh or canned green beans. This comforting casserole comes together in no time, making it a great choice for family dinners or holiday celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole with Cream Cheese

Green Rice Casserole

An overhead image of green rice casserole in a white baking dish.
Green Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Green rice casserole is easy to prepare and loaded with flavorful ingredients, making it a great option for busy weeknights. Ready in under 35 minutes, this dish offers a quick solution for a tasty dinner when time is short.
Get the Recipe: Green Rice Casserole

3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole

An image of broccoli cheese casserole served on a table with a spoon on the right side.
3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Quick 3-ingredient broccoli cheese casserole is simple to make and ready in just 30 minutes. This effortless recipe is perfect for those busy days when you need a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: 3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Corn Casserole with Cream Cheese

An image of corn casserole with cream cheese, ready to be served.
Corn Casserole with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Corn casserole with cream cheese is an easy side dish that can be made with fresh, frozen, or canned corn. This comforting recipe is perfect for potlucks and gatherings, bringing creamy flavor to your table with minimal prep.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole with Cream Cheese

Roasted Cauliflower Soup

An image of roasted cauliflower soup in a white bowl, with fresh thyme on the side.
Roasted Cauliflower Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Creamy roasted cauliflower soup is infused with garlic, thyme, and cumin, making it a comforting option for any season. This easy soup can be prepared in under 30 minutes, ensuring you have a quick meal that is both warm and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cauliflower Soup

One Pot Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Straight view of cooked one-pot lemon ricotta pasta garnished with rocket and fresh basil leaves placed in a white plate with a fork on the side.
One Pot Lemon Ricotta Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Lemon ricotta pasta is a one-pot dish ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for quick dinners or dinner parties. This simple recipe brings fresh flavors to your table without requiring extensive preparation, making it a great choice for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Quick and Easy Chicken Recipes

Top view of Air Fryer Bruschetta Stuffed Chicken Breasts.
Air Fryer Bruschetta Stuffed Chicken Breasts. Photo Credit: xoxoBella

Explore 31 quick and easy chicken recipes that make weeknight dinners stress-free and delicious—perfect for your busy evenings!

Read it Here: 31 Quick and Easy Chicken Recipes for Busy Weeknights

More Chicken Recipes

Instant pot chicken adobo in a bowl atop cauliflower rice.
Instant Pot Chicken Adobo. Photo Credit: Real Balanced

Check out 27 low-prep chicken recipes packed with flavor, perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without the fuss!

Read it Here: 27 Chicken Recipes That Bring Big Flavors With Little Effort

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Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

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