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Home » Dinner

31 Easy Weeknight Dinners You Can Make in Under 20 Minutes

Published: Sep 21, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Easy weeknight dinners don't have to be boring or complicated. These recipes are all about saving time without sacrificing flavor, so you can whip up something great in less than 20 minutes. Whether you're feeding the family or just yourself, these meals are perfect when you need to get food on the table fast, with minimal effort. You’ll still feel like you’ve cooked a proper meal, but without spending ages in the kitchen. Let’s keep things simple, quick, and totally doable for any weeknight.

Italian chopped salad in a bowl next to dressing.
Italian Chopped Salad. Photo Credit: Urban Farmie.

Rigatoni Arrabbiata

Overhead view of rigatoni arrabbiata dish placed on a white plate and baking dish. 
Rigatoni Arrabbiata. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Rigatoni arrabbiata is a straightforward pasta dish made with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil. Ready in under 20 minutes, it's an excellent option for easy weeknight dinners when you're short on time but still want a flavorful meal.
Get the Recipe: Rigatoni Arrabbiata

Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash

A close up image of a spaghetti squash scraped out by a spoon placed on a white plate.
Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Instant Pot spaghetti squash allows you to enjoy tender squash with minimal effort. In under 20 minutes, it's perfect for easy weeknight dinners when you want a healthy and quick vegetable side.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash

Spicy Vodka Pasta

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

This take on spicy vodka pasta, which can be made with or without vodka, is versatile and ready in no time. It's a convenient choice for easy weeknight dinners, offering flexibility for those seeking vegan or vegetarian options.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Vodka Pasta

Italian Chopped Salad

Italian chopped salad in a bowl next to dressing.
Italian Chopped Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Packed with fresh vegetables and a light champagne vinaigrette, the Italian chopped salad is a simple, healthy meal. Ready in just 20 minutes, it's perfect for easy weeknight dinners or quick lunches when you want something light and nutritious.
Get the Recipe: Italian Chopped Salad

Pesto Tortellini Salad

A close up view of cooked tortellini pasta salad in a white bowl.
Pesto Tortellini Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This tortellini pasta salad comes together quickly with less than 10 ingredients. It’s an easy choice for summer meals or easy weeknight dinners, ready to serve in 20 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Tortellini Salad

Penne Pomodoro

An close up photo of cooked penne pomodoro in a pot.
Penne Pomodoro. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Penne Pomodoro is a budget-friendly pasta that comes together quickly. It’s perfect for easy weeknight dinners when you need a nutritious meal without much hassle.
Get the Recipe: Penne Pomodoro

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.

One-pot lemon ricotta pasta is a creamy dish that’s both fast and flavorful. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s a go-to recipe for easy weeknight dinners or even special occasions.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Kimchi Grilled Cheese

An image of a sliced kimchi grilled cheese sandwich resting on the other slice.
Kimchi Grilled Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Kimchi grilled cheese brings together tangy kimchi and creamy cheese, all between crispy sourdough slices. This unique spin on grilled cheese is ready in 20 minutes, making it an excellent choice for quick, easy weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Grilled Cheese

Air Fryer Mongolian Beef

Closeup of crispy beef in a bowl with green onions and sesame seeds.
Air Fryer Mongolian Beef. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Mongolian beef in the air fryer delivers crispy, tender beef in a sweet and savory sauce. It’s perfect for easy weeknight dinners, taking only 20 minutes and bringing restaurant-style flavor to your home.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Mongolian Beef

Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle

Overhead view of sizzling Thai pork green beans on a Blackstone griddle with a fried egg on top.
Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Stir-frying on an outdoor griddle is a fast way to cook up a flavorful meal. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s perfect for easy weeknight dinners that bring a little variety to your fall meals.
Get the Recipe: Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle

Chicken Stir Fry

A white plate with chicken and mushrooms in a sauce.
Chicken Stir Fry. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

This quick stir-fry comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for a fast fall meal. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that’s both hearty and simple to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Stir Fry

Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

A picture of cabbage stir fry in cast iron skillet.
Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

This ground beef and cabbage stir-fry is a weeknight game changer. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s the perfect option for easy weeknight dinners when you need something quick, hearty, and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

Easy Air Fryer Ranch Chicken Tenders

Easy Air Fryer Ranch Chicken Tenders on a black plate with dill.
Easy Air Fryer Ranch Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Chicken Air Fryer Recipes.

Air fryer ranch chicken tenders are crispy and flavorful, with minimal prep. Ready in 20 minutes, they’re a quick, kid-friendly option for easy weeknight dinners or lunches.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Ranch Chicken Tenders

20 Minute Chicken Caesar Flatbread

Small flatbread toped with salad and chicken.
20 Minute Chicken Caesar Flatbread. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

This Chicken Caesar Flatbread uses store-bought flatbread and cooked chicken for a meal that comes together quickly. Perfect for easy weeknight dinners, it’s a fast solution for those busy nights.
Get the Recipe: 20 Minute Chicken Caesar Flatbread

Cheeseburger Skillet Dinner

A picture of ketchup over cheesy onion and ground beef skillet dinner.
Cheeseburger Skillet Dinner. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Cheeseburger Skillet Dinner is a one-pan dish that brings all the flavors of a cheeseburger to the table without the bun. This is an excellent choice for easy weeknight dinners that take just 20 minutes to make.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Skillet Dinner

Green Chile Chicken with Leftover Shredded Chicken Thighs

Green chile chicken in a pan with a wooden spoon.
Green Chile Chicken with Leftover Shredded Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Green Chile Chicken with shredded chicken thighs is a great way to use up leftover chicken. This one-skillet meal comes together quickly, making it a great option for easy weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Green Chile Chicken with Leftover Shredded Chicken Thighs

Fettuccine Alfredo

A close up image of pair of cooking tongs serving a portion of Fettuccine Alfredo into a bowl.
Fettuccine Alfredo. Photo credit: Erren's Kitchen.

This quick pasta recipe brings Italian flavors to your plate in just 20 minutes. Perfect for easy weeknight dinners, it’s a simple solution to satisfy your pasta cravings.
Get the Recipe: Fettuccine Alfredo

Sheet Pan Honey Soy Cashew Chicken

Sheet Pan Honey Soy Cashew Chicken with sesame seeds and chopsticks.
Sheet Pan Honey Soy Cashew Chicken. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

Sheet pan honey soy cashew chicken is simple to prepare and cleanup is a breeze. With just 20 minutes of cooking, this recipe is perfect for easy weeknight dinners that need minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Honey Soy Cashew Chicken

Sheet Pan Salmon and Asparagus

Sheet Pan Salmon Asparagus on a parchment paper lined sheet pan.
Sheet Pan Salmon and Asparagus. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Baked salmon and asparagus is a healthy sheet pan meal that’s ready in 20 minutes. It’s perfect for easy weeknight dinners when you want something nutritious without much prep.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Salmon and Asparagus

Korean Sweet Potato Glass Noodles

Overhead view of Korean sweet potato glass noodles in a white pan with chopsticks and garnish in the background.
Korean Sweet Potato Glass Noodles. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Korean sweet potato glass noodles, combined with beef and veggies in a flavorful sauce, are ready in just 15 minutes. This recipe makes for a quick and tasty option for easy weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Korean Sweet Potato Glass Noodles

Skillet Chicken Thighs, Bacon, and Green Beans

Skillet Chicken Thighs, Bacon, and Green Beans in a white bowl with a fork.
Skillet Chicken Thighs, Bacon, and Green Beans. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Skillet Chicken Thighs with bacon and green beans is a one-pan meal that's both quick and nutritious. It’s a great option for easy weeknight dinners when you want minimal cleanup and a satisfying dish.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Chicken Thighs, Bacon, and Green Beans

Sheet Pan Mediterranean Roasted Lamb

A photo of a sheet pan Mediterranean roast lamb with chickpeas and cherry tomatoes.
Sheet Pan Mediterranean Roasted Lamb. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Mediterranean roasted lamb is a quick sheet pan meal, perfect for fall dinners. Ready in under 20 minutes, it simplifies your easy weeknight dinners with its straightforward preparation.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Mediterranean Roasted Lamb

Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce

Lettuce wraps filled with shredded chicken, shredded carrots, and peanut sauce on a plate.
Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce. Photo credit: fANNEtastic food.

Lettuce wraps with shredded rotisserie chicken and crunchy veggies, paired with peanut sauce, are a fast, healthy dinner. This recipe is perfect for easy weeknight dinners when you need something light yet flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce

Grilled Flank Steak with Chile Butter

Sliced flank steak with chili butter.
Grilled Flank Steak with Chile Butter. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Flank steak grilled and topped with a chili butter sauce is a quick meal packed with bold flavors. Ready in 20 minutes, it’s a simple choice for easy weeknight dinners when you want a satisfying dish without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Flank Steak with Chile Butter

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

A plate of air fryer chicken tenders with a dip.
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Air fryer chicken tenders are a fast, no-mess meal option. With minimal effort, they’re a great choice for easy weeknight dinners that are both crispy and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

A plate of garlic butter chicken bites.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are cooked on the stovetop for a fast and simple meal. Ready in 20 minutes, this is a great recipe for easy weeknight dinners when you want something quick and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Sweet and Spicy Quinoa Peanut Stir Fry

Top view of sweet and spicy quinoa peanut stir fry.
Sweet and Spicy Quinoa Peanut Stir Fry. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Sweet and spicy quinoa peanut stir-fry is a nutritious meal that’s ready in under 20 minutes. This recipe is perfect for easy weeknight dinners, offering a quick way to serve a healthy dish packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Spicy Quinoa Peanut Stir Fry

Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

A pan of beef and broccoli stir fry with a brown sauce.
Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry. Photo credit: Erren's Kitchen.

Marinated steak with broccoli stir-fry comes together quickly and is packed with flavor. This is an excellent option for easy weeknight dinners when you need something hearty and fast.
Get the Recipe: Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

Air Fryer Chicken Breast Strips

Air Fryer Chicken Breast Strips on a white plate with white sauce.
Air Fryer Chicken Breast Strips. Photo credit: Chicken Air Fryer Recipes.

Air fryer chicken breast strips are a juicy, flavorful option that’s ready in just 20 minutes. Perfect for easy weeknight dinners, these strips make for a healthy, no-fuss meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Breast Strips

Air Fryer Butternut Squash

Plate of butternut squash in front of an air fryer with a blue napkin in the background.
Air Fryer Butternut Squash. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Air fryer butternut squash is a savory side dish that comes together in just 20 minutes. It’s an easy addition to your easy weeknight dinners, bringing healthy and flavorful roasted veggies to your plate.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Butternut Squash

Sheet Pan Steak Fajitas

Baking tray with cooked steak, bell peppers, and veggies with a steel bowl of fresh tomatoes in the middle and flour tortillas folded to the side.
Sheet Pan Steak Fajitas. Photo credit: Fitasamamabear.

Sheet pan steak fajitas are made with lean beef and fresh veggies, all seasoned with homemade fajita spices. Ready in 20 minutes, this recipe is a great option for easy weeknight dinners that require minimal prep.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Steak Fajitas

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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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