• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Parallel Plates
  • About
  • Contact
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Soups
    • Sides
    • Desserts
  • Resources
menu icon
go to homepage
  • About
  • Contact
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Soups
    • Sides
    • Desserts
  • Resources
search icon
Homepage link
  • About
  • Contact
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Soups
    • Sides
    • Desserts
  • Resources
×
Home » Dinner

40 Simple Weeknight Recipes You Need in Your Life Right Now

Published: Sep 6, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Simple weeknight recipes are a lifesaver when the days get busy, and fall calls for something comforting and flavorful. These dishes are perfect for cozy evenings, with a focus on easy prep and rich flavors that fit right into the season. Whether you're craving something hearty or light, this collection has something that makes dinner a breeze. Each one is designed to help you get a great meal on the table fast without sacrificing any of the delicious fall vibes.

An overhead image of cooked rasta pasta on a serving bowl.
Jamaican Vegan Rasta Pasta. Photo Credit: Urban Farmie.

Roasted Oyster Mushrooms

A close up image of roasted oyster mushrooms placed in a plate over a napkin.
Roasted Oyster Mushrooms. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These roasted oyster mushrooms are an easy, four-ingredient side dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Whether added to salads, tacos, or served as a standalone dish, the rich, earthy flavor of these mushrooms adds depth to any simple weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Oyster Mushrooms

Pasta Fresca

An overhead image of pasta fresca in a white plate with cheese and tomatoes in the background.
Pasta Fresca. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This pasta fresca recipe is made with simple, fresh ingredients and is ready in under 30 minutes. It's the perfect simple weeknight recipe when you need a fast, flavorful dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Fresca

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.

Whip up this 3-ingredient broccoli cheese casserole in just 30 minutes for a hassle-free weeknight meal. Simple, nutritious, and quick to prepare, it’s a great choice for those busy nights when you need dinner on the table fast.
Get the Recipe: 3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Jamaican Rasta Pasta

An overhead image of cooked rasta pasta on a serving bowl.
Jamaican Rasta Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This vegan rasta pasta is made with fresh ingredients and mild spices, creating a flavorful meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes. It’s an excellent option for a quick, plant-based dinner during a busy weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Jamaican Rasta Pasta

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 classic Italian dish that combines pasta with peas and Pecorino cheese for a comforting, hearty meal. Its simplicity and quick preparation make it a go-to for any simple weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Piselli

Roasted Cabbage Steaks

An image of roasted cabbage steaks on a serving plate.
Roasted Cabbage Steaks. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Roasted cabbage steaks are a healthy, flavorful side dish that’s ready in just 35 minutes, perfect for a busy weeknight. This dish adds a bit of flair to your meal without the need for complicated steps, keeping things easy and stress-free.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cabbage Steaks

Paccheri al Forno

An overhead image of paccheri al forno in a pyrex glass dish.
Paccheri al Forno. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Paccheri al Forno is a classic Southern Italian pasta bake that uses only a few simple ingredients and is ready in under an hour. It’s a hearty and comforting meal, making it a great option for a quick weeknight dinner when you need something satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Paccheri al Forno

Green Rice Casserole

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

This green rice casserole is full of flavor and can be prepared in under 35 minutes, making it a perfect choice for simple weeknight dinners. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a dish you’ll turn to on those busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Green Rice Casserole

Cacio e Pepe

Image shows a plate with cacio e pepe in a neat pile topped with shaved parmesan cheese.
Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Cacio e pepe is a simple pasta dish that takes just 15 minutes to make, from boiling the water to serving. It’s an excellent option for a quick weeknight dinner when you need something comforting but fast.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers

A chicken bacon ranch popper skewered by a toothpick.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These chicken and bacon poppers with homemade ranch dressing are oven-baked for ultimate ease and ready in under an hour. Perfect for a fun weeknight dinner or a light, casual meal, this recipe makes busy evenings feel effortless.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers

Zuppa Toscana

A Slow Cooker Zuppa Toscana with potatoes and kale.
Zuppa Toscana. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

Slow Cooker Zuppa Toscana brings together potatoes, sausage, kale, Parmesan, and bacon in a hearty, comforting dish. It’s a great meal to prep ahead for a simple weeknight dinner that practically cooks itself.
Get the Recipe: Zuppa Toscana

Deconstructed Egg Roll Soup

A picture of cabbage carrot sausage in broth soup..
Deconstructed Egg Roll Soup. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Egg Roll Soup is a one-pot dinner that combines your favorite egg roll flavors into a simple, hearty soup. This quick and easy recipe makes weeknight meals stress-free, with a comforting dish that’s ready in no time.
Get the Recipe: Deconstructed Egg Roll Soup

Sheet Pan Maple Mustard Chicken

Maple mustard chicken breasts with brussels sprouts, squash and cranberries.
Sheet Pan Maple Mustard Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Maple mustard chicken breasts, Brussels sprouts, squash, and cranberries all bake together on one sheet pan for an easy, balanced meal. With minimal prep time, this simple weeknight recipe ensures dinner is done without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Maple Mustard Chicken

Stuffed Tomatoes

Stuffed Tomatoes inside white casserole.
Stuffed Tomatoes. Photo credit: Low Carb - No Carb.

These baked stuffed tomatoes, filled with bolognese sauce, make a delicious and easy grilling option. This straightforward recipe works for both casual weeknight dinners or BBQs, offering flexibility and flavor without the effort.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Tomatoes

Slow Cooker London Broil

A plate of slow cooker London broil with a side of veggies.
Slow Cooker London Broil. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Slow cooker London broil combines tender beef with hearty vegetables, creating a comforting meal with minimal effort. It's a great choice for a simple weeknight recipe when you want a delicious dinner that practically cooks itself.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker London Broil

Butternut Soup

A crock of butternut soup.
Butternut Soup. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Creamy butternut squash soup is a fall favorite, made in the slow cooker to minimize your hands-on time. This comforting, simple weeknight meal is perfect for those evenings when you need something warm and easy without the extra work.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Soup

Slow Cooker Tomato Lime Chicken

Image shows a Bite of tomato lime chicken on a fork with rice and the rest of the bowl in the background.
Slow Cooker Tomato Lime Chicken. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Slow cooker tomato lime chicken offers a bright, tangy flavor that’s easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep. This simple weeknight recipe makes it easy to get a healthy, flavorful dinner on the table with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Tomato Lime Chicken

Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

Easy cheesy hamburger casserole in bowl with onion garnish.
Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole combines ground beef, pasta, and cheese in a straightforward recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a comforting dish that brings heartiness and flavor to your dinner table without requiring much prep.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

Slow Cooker Beef Carnitas

Overhead image of slow cooker beef carnitas with a tongs in a pan.
Slow Cooker Beef Carnitas. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Beef Carnitas in the slow cooker offer a flavorful, crispy dish that’s easy to prepare for a simple weeknight dinner. Just set it and forget it, then finish under the broiler for a convenient and delicious meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef Carnitas

Zucchini & Summer Squash Casserole

Zucchini and summer squash alternated in a dish topped with breadcrumbs.
Zucchini & Summer Squash Casserole. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Zucchini and Squash Casserole is a simple five-ingredient recipe that alternates green zucchini and yellow squash for a colorful, nutritious side dish. Ready in under 40 minutes, it’s a great option for those looking for a quick and easy weeknight recipe.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini & Summer Squash Casserole

Fried Cabbage with Bacon

A pan full of bacon and cabbage with a wooden spoon.
Fried Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Fried Cabbage with Bacon recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it a practical option for a quick weeknight side dish. The combination of cabbage, bacon, and onion creates a flavorful balance that’s both simple and satisfying for busy evenings. A great addition to your Simple Weeknight Recipes You Need in Your Life Right Now.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Honey Lemon Chicken

A cooked chicken thigh next to roasted asparagus and baby potatoes on a white plate.
Honey Lemon Chicken. Photo credit: fANNEtastic food.

Honey lemon chicken in the slow cooker requires just 10 minutes of prep, allowing you to enjoy a hands-off cooking experience. The slow cooker takes care of the rest, making this an easy and convenient option for a weeknight dinner that fits perfectly into your busy fall routine. A simple choice for weeknights when you want a flavorful meal with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Honey Lemon Chicken

Keto Beef Barbacoa

Top view of keto beef barbacoa in a square pan.
Keto Beef Barbacoa. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Slow-cooked Beef Barbacoa is a tender, flavorful dish that requires very little prep, making it a go-to option for effortless weeknight meals. Its bold flavors and ease of preparation make it perfect for those nights when you want a hearty meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. Definitely a recipe to include in your weeknight rotation.
Get the Recipe: Keto Beef Barbacoa

Waffle Grilled Cheese

Waffle grilled cheese on a white plate with flowers.
Waffle Grilled Cheese. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Grilled Cheese in a waffle iron transforms a classic dish into something fun and even quicker to prepare. With just a waffle iron and some basic ingredients, you can have a delicious, golden sandwich ready in no time. Perfect for when you need a speedy meal after a long day, making this one of those Simple Weeknight Recipes You Need in Your Life Right Now.
Get the Recipe: Waffle Grilled Cheese

Crockpot Green Chili Chicken

Three chicken tacos topped with cilantro, avocado and red onions on a wooden cutting board.
Crockpot Green Chili Chicken. Photo credit: Fitasamamabear.

Crockpot green chili chicken is packed with bold flavors and requires minimal effort, making it a great choice for easy weeknight meal prep. Just throw the ingredients together, and let the crockpot do the work while you go about your day. The result is a tender, flavorful dish that fits perfectly into your weeknight routine.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Green Chili Chicken

4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken

Close-up image of slow cooker chicken in a black plate.
4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This slow cooker chicken recipe delivers tender, juicy meat in a rich gravy with almost no effort required. It’s a comforting meal that allows you to enjoy a warm, home-cooked dinner with minimal hands-on time, making it one of those simple weeknight meals you’ll keep coming back to.
Get the Recipe: 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken

Carrot and Red Lentil Soup Recipe with Tomatoes

A spoonful of carrot and red lentil soup in a bowl.
Carrot and Red Lentil Soup Recipe with Tomatoes. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

Carrot and red lentil soup brings together simple, nutritious ingredients in a colorful, filling dish. This straightforward recipe can be whipped up quickly, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without the hassle. A great addition to your weeknight meal plan.
Get the Recipe: Carrot and Red Lentil Soup Recipe with Tomatoes

Slow Cooker Ham & Potato Chowder

A blue bowl of ham and potato soup.
Slow Cooker Ham & Potato Chowder. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Slow Cooker Ham & Potato Chowder is a comforting, hearty dish that takes little prep but delivers big results. It’s a simple weeknight recipe that allows you to enjoy a warm, satisfying meal after a long day, without spending much time in the kitchen. Perfect for those fall evenings when you want something easy but filling.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Ham & Potato Chowder

Chicken Francaise

A skillet filled with lemon chicken in sauce with lemon slices.
Chicken Francaise. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

Chicken Francaise is a one-skillet wonder, combining fresh lemon, white wine, and butter to create a flavorful sauce. This easy recipe uses simple ingredients and is quick to prepare, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights when you want a restaurant-quality meal at home. Definitely one of those Simple Weeknight Recipes You Need in Your Life Right Now.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Francaise

Healthy Crock Pot Chicken Verde

Chicken Verde with Potatoes Soup in a blue bowl with spoon.
Healthy Crock Pot Chicken Verde. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

Slow Cooker Chicken Verde with Potatoes is a hearty, easy-to-make dish that requires minimal prep time. Simply toss the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic, leaving you with a flavorful, robust meal that fits perfectly into a busy weeknight routine.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Crock Pot Chicken Verde

Beef Stew

A picture of beef stew with mushrooms carrots and thyme.
Beef Stew. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Slow cooker beef stew is packed with tender beef and vegetables, making it a classic comfort food that’s simple to prepare. This easy weeknight recipe lets you enjoy a hearty meal without spending too much time in the kitchen, making it a must-have for fall evenings when you want something familiar and warming.
Get the Recipe: Beef Stew

Instant Pot Chicken Stew

A white bowl of Instant Pot Chicken Stew sits on a rustic wooden cutting board with a red linen on a white marble counter.
Instant Pot Chicken Stew. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Instant Pot Chicken Stew combines chicken thighs, vegetables, and thyme in a simple, hands-off recipe. Ready in under an hour, this dish is perfect for weeknights when you need a comforting, nutritious meal with minimal effort. One of the easiest weeknight meals you’ll want to add to your repertoire.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Stew

Sirloin Tip Roast Crock Pot

An image of a sirloin tip roast crock pot.
Sirloin Tip Roast Crock Pot. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

A sirloin tip roast with vegetables slow-cooked to perfection is an easy, hands-off dish that delivers big on flavor. With minimal prep, this recipe allows you to enjoy a hearty, comforting meal without much work, making it a great option for those busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Sirloin Tip Roast Crock Pot

Panko Crusted Rockfish

panko crusted rockfish on a plate with spinach.
Panko Crusted Rockfish. Photo credit: Renee Nicole's Kitchen.

Panko Crusted Rockfish provides a light, crispy meal that’s ready in just 25 minutes, making it a simple and quick option for a seafood dinner. The crunchy panko coating adds great texture, and the short cooking time makes it perfect for weeknights when you want something flavorful but fast.
Get the Recipe: Panko Crusted Rockfish

Keto Crockpot Pork Chops

Easy Keto Crockpot Pork Chops with mushrooms, onions and parsley on a white plate.
Keto Crockpot Pork Chops. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Slow cooker pork chops allow you to enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal with minimal hands-on time. Perfect for busy fall days, this recipe requires little prep and cooks slowly throughout the day, ensuring you come home to a delicious, no-fuss dinner.
Get the Recipe: Keto Crockpot Pork Chops

Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles with Mushrooms

A plate of Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles with Mushrooms.
Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles with Mushrooms. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Beef and noodles with mushrooms is a slow-cooked dish that delivers rich, comforting flavors with little effort. Perfect for a cozy fall evening, this recipe is easy to prepare and makes for a satisfying weeknight dinner that fits seamlessly into your routine.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles with Mushrooms

Pulled Pork

A bowl of Pulled Pork.
Pulled Pork. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is a hands-off recipe that delivers tender, flavorful pork with minimal effort. It’s a great option for busy weeknights, making it easy to prepare a hearty meal that everyone will enjoy with practically no work required.
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork

Roasted Half Chicken

Two roasted chicken halves on a white platter with lemon and parsley.
Roasted Half Chicken. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

This roast half chicken recipe delivers juicy meat and crispy skin with the help of garlic and thyme, offering a simple, flavorful dinner that requires minimal effort. It’s an easy weeknight meal that brings satisfying flavors to the table without a lot of fuss.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Half Chicken

Slow Cooker BBQ Apple Pulled Pork Sandwiches with Apple Carrot Slaw

Close-up image of slow cooker bbq apple plled pork sandwich with apple carrot slaw.
Slow Cooker BBQ Apple Pulled Pork Sandwiches with Apple Carrot Slaw. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

BBQ Apple Pulled Pork Sandwiches combine the sweetness of apple carrot slaw with tender pulled pork for a flavorful, straightforward meal. This recipe is simple to prepare and offers a satisfying, easy dinner option for any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker BBQ Apple Pulled Pork Sandwiches with Apple Carrot Slaw

Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup

A white bowl with chicken noodle soup topped with fresh herbs.
Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup. Photo credit: fANNEtastic food.

Slow cooker chicken noodle soup is a comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings, offering shredded chicken and vegetables in a light broth. It’s an easy recipe that requires minimal prep, making it a great option for busy weeknights when you need something quick and warming.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup

More Dinner

  • A serving of Maple Dijon Chicken Sheet Pan in a plate.
    Maple Dijon Chicken Sheet Pan
  • Easy Homemade Margherita Pizza

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Primary Sidebar

Close up headshot

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.

More about me →

Popular

  • Overhead image of cozy bowl of potato and sausage chowder with breads on the side.
    Potato And Sausage Chowder
  • Close-up of a bowl of Stuffed Pepper Soup, garnished with parsley, ready to serve.
    Stuffed Pepper Soup
  • A slice of Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop-Tart Bars on a white plate in the foreground, with another slice on a pile of plates in the background.
    Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop-Tart Bars
  • A serving of Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells on a plate.
    Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells

Footer

↑ back to top

About

  • Privacy Policy
  • Disclosure & Terms of Use
  • Cookie Policy
  • Accessibility Policy

Newsletter

  • Sign Up!

Contact

  • Contact

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Copyright © 2024 Black Bicycle LLC