When it comes to dinner, there are few things more satisfying than a hearty, comforting meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and tried-and-true or adventurous and new, having a repertoire of reliable and delicious recipes up your sleeve is essential. In this article, we’ll be counting down our top 20 mouthwatering best dinner recipes of all time, covering everything from comforting casseroles to bold international flavors.
From rich and creamy pasta dishes to spicy and savory stir-fries, these tried-and-true recipes are sure to become new favorites in your household. So grab a pen and paper, put on your apron, and get ready to dive into the world of delicious dinner options!
Beef Bourguignon with Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Experience the rich flavors of French cuisine with this hearty Beef Bourguignon dish, served alongside creamy mashed potatoes. This classic recipe is a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
For the Beef Bourguignon:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Burgundy or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potatoes:
– 4-5 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Brown the beef in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic, then cook until softened.
4. Add wine, broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Cook for 2-1/2 hours or until the beef is tender.
6. Meanwhile, boil potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with heavy cream, butter, salt, and pepper.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-1/2 hours (including oven time).
Classic Chicken Parmesan with Spaghetti
Classic Chicken Parmesan with Spaghetti Recipe
Get ready for a comforting Italian-inspired dish that combines crispy chicken cutlets with melted mozzarella cheese and served over spaghetti. This classic recipe is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Dip each chicken breast in the beaten egg and then coat with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
3. Heat about 1/4 inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken breasts until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Transfer the fried chicken to a baking dish and spoon marinara sauce over each breast.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each breast.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions, then serve with the Chicken Parmesan.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
A classic Italian-American dish that combines succulent shrimp with aromatic garlic and butter, perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and simmer for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
6. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Slow-Cooked Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Slow-Cooked Pulled Pork Sandwiches: A Classic Comfort Food Recipe
Get ready to sink your teeth into tender, juicy pulled pork sandwiches, slow-cooked to perfection. This easy recipe is perfect for a casual dinner or a crowd-pleasing party.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup barbecue sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw and pickles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork in the slow cooker and cook for 8-10 hours or overnight.
5. After 8 hours, shred the pork with two forks and stir in barbecue sauce.
6. Split hamburger buns and spoon pulled pork onto each bun.
7. Top with coleslaw and pickles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Authentic Chicken Tikka Masala
Experience the rich flavors of India with this classic chicken tikka masala recipe, a popular dish that combines tender chicken, creamy tomato sauce, and aromatic spices. This recipe is a simplified adaptation of traditional methods, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons garam masala
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Marinate chicken in yogurt mixture for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
2. Grill or bake chicken until cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side.
3. Cook onions and garlic in oil until caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Add cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using); cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and salt; bring to a simmer.
6. Add cooked chicken to sauce; simmer for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: About 45 minutes
Grilled Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce
Experience the perfect balance of flavors and textures with this easy-to-make grilled salmon recipe, elevated by a tangy and rich lemon butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Grill salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
5. Add lemon juice, garlic, and mustard. Stir until smooth.
6. Brush the lemon butter sauce over grilled salmon during last minute of cooking.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Homemade Lasagna with Ground Beef
Classic Homemade Lasagna with Ground Beef Recipe
This hearty lasagna recipe is a staple of Italian-American cuisine, featuring layers of ground beef, tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 16 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. In a separate pot, boil lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Assemble the lasagna by spreading meat sauce on the bottom layer, followed by noodles, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Repeat for 3-4 layers.
6. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pan-Seared Ribeye Steak with Chimichurri
Elevate your steak game with this Argentine-inspired recipe that combines the richness of pan-seared ribeye with the bright, herby flavors of chimichurri. Perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 pound ribeye steak
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the steak with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until desired level of doneness.
4. Transfer the steak to the preheated oven and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until cooked to your liking.
5. Meanwhile, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, and red wine vinegar in a bowl.
6. Serve the steak with chimichurri spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this creamy pasta dish, featuring tender chicken, sautéed vegetables, and a velvety sauce infused with garlic and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow), sliced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp. dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken, onion, garlic, and bell peppers; cook until chicken is browned and vegetables are tender.
3. Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and oregano to the skillet; stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the creamy sauce and chicken mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Korean Beef Bulgogi
This Spicy Korean Beef Bulgogi recipe is a bold and aromatic twist on the classic Korean dish. Marinated in a sweet and spicy mixture, thinly sliced beef short ribs are grilled to perfection and served with steamed rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, water, and rice vinegar.
2. Add the beef short ribs to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove the beef from the marinade and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Serve immediately with steamed rice and garnish with green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu
A quick and easy recipe that combines the flavors of various vegetables with the protein-rich goodness of tofu, all cooked to perfection in a savory stir-fry sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cubed
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, mushrooms)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, then add the mixed vegetables. Cook until they start to soften, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Return the tofu to the pan and stir-fry everything together for 1 minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Baked Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumbs
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy baked macaroni and cheese recipe, topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust. Perfect for a cozy night in or a satisfying meal to share with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, combine milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, flour, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until coated.
5. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
6. Dot the top with butter.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Green Curry with Jasmine Rice
Savor the bold flavors of Thailand with this classic green curry dish, served over fluffy jasmine rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups jasmine rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) Thai green curry paste
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 pound mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snow peas)
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook jasmine rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk and water; bring to a simmer.
6. Add mixed vegetables; cook until tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve curry over cooked jasmine rice, garnished with chopped basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Classic Beef Stroganoff with Egg Noodles
A hearty and comforting dish that combines tender beef strips, mushrooms, and creamy sauce, served over egg noodles. This recipe is a timeless classic that’s easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the onion, mushrooms, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the paprika, beef broth, and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
5. Return the beef to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the beef mixture over cooked egg noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad
Elevate your salad game with this classic Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad recipe, featuring juicy chicken, crispy romaine lettuce, and a tangy Caesar dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 heads of romaine lettuce, washed and torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
– 1/4 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. In a large bowl, combine romaine lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Slice the grilled chicken into strips. Add to the salad bowl.
4. Drizzle Caesar dressing over the top of the salad and toss to coat.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (grilling time plus prep time)
One-Pot Jambalaya with Shrimp and Sausage
This classic Louisiana dish combines the flavors of spicy sausage, succulent shrimp, and aromatic rice for a hearty and satisfying meal. This one-pot wonder is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the shrimp to the pot and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside with the sausage.
4. Add the rice to the pot and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return the sausage and shrimp to the pot and stir to combine.
7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Turkey
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe uses ground turkey as a leaner alternative to beef or pork. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add cooked rice, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is well combined.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey mixture and top with shredded cheese (if using).
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Authentic Chicken Enchiladas
Authentic Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
Experience the rich flavors of Mexico with this classic chicken enchilada recipe, featuring tender chicken, creamy sauce, and crispy tortillas. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
4. Assemble enchiladas by dipping tortillas in enchilada sauce, then filling with chicken mixture, and rolling up. Place seam-side down in a baking dish.
5. Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the top, followed by shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken with Vegetables
Brighten up your dinner table with this zesty and aromatic roasted chicken recipe, infused with the freshness of lemon and herbs. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the chicken in a roasting pan with the sliced bell peppers and zucchini.
5. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Homemade Beef Tacos with Fresh Guacamole
Get ready to spice up your taco Tuesday with this flavorful recipe! Tender beef, crunchy lettuce, and creamy guacamole come together for a deliciously fresh take on the classic.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves (optional)
– Guacamole:
+ 3 ripe avocados
+ 1 lime, juiced
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño. Cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in garlic and taco seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with beef mixture, shredded cheese (if using), and cilantro leaves (if using).
6. Make guacamole by mashing avocados in a bowl with lime juice, salt, and pepper.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a culinary journey around the world with these 20 mouthwatering dinner recipes. From classic comfort food like beef bourguignon and lasagna, to international flavors like chicken tikka masala and Korean beef bulgogi, there’s something for everyone. Discover new twists on old favorites, like creamy mashed potatoes and pan-seared ribeye steak, or try your hand at exotic dishes like Thai green curry and jambalaya. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting to cook, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
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