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Home » Dinner

50 No-Fuss Weeknight Meals That Save You from the Takeout Trap

Published: Mar 20, 2025 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

No fuss weeknight meals are a game-changer when you're tired, hungry, and tempted to grab takeout. Life gets busy, and the last thing you want is to spend hours in the kitchen after a long day. These easy-to-make dishes keep things simple and get dinner on the table fast. They’re great when you need something quick, reliable, and way better than delivery. Skip the takeout and save your money — these meals have you covered.

An image of pineapple fried rice on a plate.

Pineapple Fried Rice. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegetable Korma

An overhead image of vegetable korma in a bowl, garnished with cilantro and with a spoon on the side.
Vegetable Korma. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This creamy vegetable korma is packed with potatoes and peas for an easy meal. Serve it with flatbreads for a simple dinner that skips the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Korma

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.

This lemon ricotta pasta comes together in just 15 minutes for a quick dinner. Light and creamy, it’s great when you need something fast without the work.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Easy Cabbage Curry

An overhead image of cooked cabbage curry in a round plate.
Easy Cabbage Curry. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

A simple cabbage curry that’s ready in 25 minutes and packed with flavor. This one-pot meal is great for weeknights when time is short.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cabbage Curry

Broccoli Pesto Pasta

An overhead image of broccoli pesto pasta served in a plate.
Broccoli Pesto Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This 30-minute broccoli pesto pasta is fresh and easy to throw together. Roasted broccoli and cherry tomatoes add flavor without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Pesto Pasta

Pineapple Fried Rice

An image of pineapple fried rice on a plate.
Pineapple Fried Rice. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Pineapple fried rice is packed with crispy rice, sweet pineapple, and savory tofu. Everything roasts on one pan for a simple dinner with quick cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Fried Rice

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 works with or without vodka and can be made vegetarian. It’s a quick dinner that feels special without extra work.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Vodka Pasta

Tuscan Cannellini Bean Soup

An overhead view of the Tuscan bean soup placed on a serving dish with a spoon on the side.
Tuscan Cannellini Bean Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Hearty and budget-friendly, this Tuscan bean soup is ready in just 30 minutes. A simple option for nights when you want something easy and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Cannellini Bean Soup

Leek and Mushroom Pasta

An overhead image of cooked leek mushroom pasta in a pan.
Leek and Mushroom Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This leek and mushroom pasta is creamy, one-pot, and ready in 40 minutes. With ricotta and parmesan, it’s a great weeknight dinner with no extra hassle.
Get the Recipe: Leek and Mushroom Pasta

Gomen Wat (Spicy Ethiopian Greens)

An overhead view of gomen wat in a white bowl.
Gomen Wat (Spicy Ethiopian Greens). Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Gomen Wat is an Ethiopian collard green dish that’s bold and simple to make. This easy side adds flavor to any meal without a complicated process.
Get the Recipe: Gomen Wat (Spicy Ethiopian Greens)

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.

Pasta fresca keeps things easy with fresh ingredients and a quick 30-minute cook time. A great choice when you want something simple but satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Fresca

Easy One Pot Cabbage Soup

An overhead image of two cabbage soups in a white serving bowl.
Easy One Pot Cabbage Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This one-pot cabbage soup is packed with nutrients and full of flavor. Make a big batch for an easy, hands-off dinner that’s perfect for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Easy One Pot Cabbage Soup

Spicy Alfredo Pasta

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

Spicy Alfredo sauce makes for a bold and creamy one-pot pasta. With a red pepper base and fresh herbs, this 30-minute meal keeps things easy.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Alfredo Pasta

Squash and Zucchini Casserole

Close up of zucchini and summer squash casserole in glass dish.
Squash and Zucchini Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Squash and zucchini casserole is cheesy, packed with veggies, and ready in 30 minutes. A simple choice for a no-fuss weeknight dinner or potluck.
Get the Recipe: Squash and Zucchini Casserole

Carrot Casserole

An overhead image of baked carrot casserole.
Carrot Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Carrot casserole is creamy, cheesy, and topped with crispy breadcrumbs. It’s quick to prep and perfect for nights when you need something effortless.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Casserole

Vegetarian Tater Tot Casserole

An image of cooked tater tot casserole.
Vegetarian Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Tater tot casserole is a simple, comforting dish with veggies and crispy tots. This no-stress dinner comes together fast and keeps things easy.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Tater Tot Casserole

Slow Cooker Potato Soup

A bowl of slow cooker potato soup.
Slow Cooker Potato Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This slow cooker potato soup is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Let it cook while you go about your day, then enjoy a hands-off meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Potato Soup

Sesame Tofu

An overhead image of sesame tofu with rice on the side.
Sesame Tofu. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Crispy sesame tofu with caramelized veggies and a nutty sauce makes a great dinner. It’s bold, easy to throw together, and perfect for weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Tofu

Spicy Soba Noodles

An overhead image of spicy soba noodles in a bowl.
Spicy Soba Noodles. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Spicy soba noodles come together quickly with nutty noodles and crisp veggies. A bold, easy dinner when you need something flavorful without the effort.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Soba Noodles

Mushroom Barley Soup

An image of mushroom barley soup in a bowl.
Mushroom Barley Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Mushroom barley soup is hearty, easy to make, and ready in under an hour. A great choice for a comforting meal that doesn’t take much effort.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Barley Soup

Naan Pizza

An image of naan pizza with different toppings on each.
Naan Pizza. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Three naan pizza options—Margherita, Veggie, and Mediterranean—make dinner easy. Quick to customize and ready in 30 minutes, this is great for any night.
Get the Recipe: Naan Pizza

Slow Cooker Black Bean Soup

An image of slow cooker black bean soup in a bowl with toppings.
Slow Cooker Black Bean Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This slow cooker black bean soup is rich, hearty, and incredibly easy to make. A simple no-fuss meal that comes together with minimal prep.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Black Bean Soup

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 packed with flavor and ready in under 35 minutes. A simple dinner that works great for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Green Rice Casserole

Spaghetti Squash Casserole

An image of spaghetti squash casserole with a serving missing from the lower right side of the baking dish.
Spaghetti Squash Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Spaghetti squash casserole is cheesy, loaded with veggies, and ready in 45 minutes. A hands-off dinner when you need something simple.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Squash 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.

This three-ingredient broccoli cheese casserole is easy to make and ready in 30 minutes. A quick dinner that’s simple but packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: 3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Vegan Bolognese

An image of bolognese in a bowl with basil on top.
Vegan Bolognese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegan bolognese made with lentils, mushrooms, and tomato sauce is rich and easy. Ready in under an hour, it’s great for a family-friendly dinner.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Bolognese

Stuffed Acorn Squash

A close up view of three stuffed acorn squash placed in a serving plate.
Stuffed Acorn Squash. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Stuffed acorn squash with quinoa is a simple, flavorful dish great for any night. Sweet and savory ingredients come together for an easy meal.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Acorn Squash

Easy Mushroom Wellington

An overhead image of mushroom wellington in a serving plate.
Easy Mushroom Wellington. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This vegan mushroom Wellington is a flaky, plant-based take on a classic. With savory mushrooms and herbs, it’s a great option for a no-fuss dinner.
Get the Recipe: Easy Mushroom Wellington

Creamy Mushroom Pasta

An overhead image of creamy mushroom pasta on a serving plate.
Creamy Mushroom Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This creamy mushroom pasta is a go-to weeknight meal that’s garlicky and easy. Ready in just 30 minutes, it keeps things simple without losing flavor.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mushroom Pasta

Potato And Sausage Chowder

Overhead image of cozy bowl of potato and sausage chowder with breads on the side.
Potato And Sausage Chowder. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Potato and sausage chowder is a hearty one-pot meal perfect for chilly nights. Packed with flavor, it’s a great option when you want something easy.
Get the Recipe: Potato And Sausage Chowder

Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells

A serving of Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells on a plate.
Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Philly cheesesteak stuffed shells are loaded with beef, peppers, and provolone. A simple, family-friendly dinner that doesn’t take much effort.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells

Stuffed Pepper Soup

Overhead image of a bowl of Stuffed Pepper Soup, garnished with parsley, ready to serve.
Stuffed Pepper Soup. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Stuffed pepper soup is a comforting tomato-based dish with all the best flavors. A great weeknight meal that keeps things easy.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Pepper Soup

Chicken and Queso Rice Bake

Close-up image of Chicken and Queso Rice Bake garnished with fresh chopped parsley on a plate.
Chicken and Queso Rice Bake. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Chicken and queso rice bake is cheesy and full of flavor with minimal prep. A great option when you need dinner without extra steps.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Queso Rice Bake

Maple Dijon Chicken Sheet Pan

A serving of Maple Dijon Chicken Sheet Pan in a plate.
Maple Dijon Chicken Sheet Pan. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Maple Dijon chicken sheet pan dinner keeps things simple with roasted veggies. A no-fuss meal when you need something fast but flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Maple Dijon Chicken Sheet Pan

Broccoli Cheddar Mac And Cheese

Overhead image of a plate of creamy Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese.
Broccoli Cheddar Mac And Cheese. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

This copycat Panera broccoli cheddar mac and cheese is creamy and ready in 20 minutes. A simple meal that’s great when you need something quick.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Mac And Cheese

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Close-up image of sliced homemade Margherita pizza.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Creamy and packed with veggies, this broccoli cheddar soup is a comforting meal. Ready in 35 minutes, it’s a great choice for a no-fuss dinner.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon

Roasted butternut squash with cauliflower and bacon and dollops of sour cream with a spoon.
Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Roasted butternut squash with cauliflower and bacon makes for a simple dinner. Easy to prepare, it’s packed with flavor without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon

Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy

Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy. Photo credit: Renee Nicole's Kitchen.

Chicken pot pie with tarragon gravy is a comforting dinner full of tender chicken. A great choice when you want something hearty without too much work.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy

Italian Meatball Soup

Image shows A bowl of italian meatball soup with a basil leaf on top.
Italian Meatball Soup. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Italian meatball soup has a flavorful broth and hearty meatballs. A great, easy dinner for nights when you need something comforting but low-effort.
Get the Recipe: Italian Meatball Soup

Garlic Scape Pesto Pizza with Goat Cheese

Garlic Scape Pesto Pizza with Goat Cheese. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Garlic scape pesto on a cauliflower crust with goat cheese makes for an easy meal. This lighter pizza option is simple but packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Scape Pesto Pizza with Goat Cheese

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 in just 20 minutes. A quick, flavorful meal that’s perfect for a no-fuss dinner.
Get the Recipe: Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

Buffalo Chicken Ravioli Casserole

Cheesy chicken casserole in a white dish.
Buffalo Chicken Ravioli Casserole. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

Buffalo chicken ravioli casserole is a quick-prep, family-friendly meal. With minimal effort, it comes together fast for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Ravioli Casserole

Chinese Beef Noodle Soup

A white bowl containing beef noodle soup with a dark broth, slices of beef, white noodles, and green scallions on top.
Chinese Beef Noodle Soup. Photo credit: Erren's Kitchen.

This simmered dish is full of bold flavors and works great for a fall meal. It’s a simple way to get a rich, comforting dinner on the table.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Beef Noodle Soup

Stuffed Shells with Spinach and Ricotta

Stuffed shells in a cast iron skillet.
Stuffed Shells with Spinach and Ricotta. Photo credit: Renee Nicole's Kitchen.

Stuffed shells with spinach and ricotta baked in marinara make a great vegetarian meal. It’s a simple, no-fuss option for a cozy dinner.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Shells with Spinach and Ricotta

Ramen Chicken Noodles

Keto Ramen Chicken Noodles in a black bowl with various vegetables and boiled egg.
Ramen Chicken Noodles. Photo credit: Low Carb - No Carb.

Ramen noodle soup has a rich broth, chicken, and veggies for a complete meal. A quick, comforting option when you need something filling.
Get the Recipe: Ramen Chicken Noodles

Easy Mushroom Risotto

Easy Mushroom Risotto. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Mushroom risotto is a creamy dish with deep, rich flavors. It’s a great option when you want something easy but hearty.
Get the Recipe: Easy Mushroom Risotto

Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Chicken bacon ranch casserole in baking dish.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Bacon ranch casserole combines pasta, chicken, and a creamy sauce. A great dinner for busy nights when you need something filling without the work.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breast and Potatoes

Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breast and Potatoes on a white plate with parsley.
Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breast and Potatoes. Photo credit: Chicken Air Fryer Recipes.

Air fryer chicken breast and potatoes is an easy meal with crispy parmesan wedges. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s great when you want dinner fast.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breast and Potatoes

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 sheet pan meal ready in 20 minutes. A simple option when you want a no-fuss dinner with bold flavors.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Mediterranean Roasted Lamb

Easy Chili Colorado

Close-up image of chili colorado in a bowl.
Easy Chili Colorado. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Chili Colorado is a bold, comforting stew with braised beef in a rich red sauce. A great dinner when you need something hearty but easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chili Colorado

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.

Ground beef and cabbage stir-fry is a quick and hearty meal ready in 20 minutes. A great no-fuss dinner when time is short.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

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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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