By the time Wednesday rolls around, the week feels like it’s never going to end, and the last thing anyone wants to do is slave away in the kitchen. You’re tired, you’re done with work, and all you need is something quick that won’t take much brainpower. That’s where these easy dinners come in. They’re fast, flavorful, and just what you need to survive the midweek slump without resorting to another sad takeout order.
Salsa Chicken
Salsa chicken is that quick weeknight dinner you didn’t know you needed. Juicy chicken, salsa, corn, and cheddar come together in under 30 minutes, giving you a no-stress meal perfect for when you’re running on fumes midweek.
Get the Recipe: Salsa Chicken
Brussels Sprouts Pasta
This Brussels sprouts pasta is ready in 25 minutes with just six ingredients. Bacon, sun-dried tomatoes, and artichokes keep it interesting while still being super easy. Great for when you want dinner done fast without being boring.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts Pasta
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
This sun-dried tomato pasta is meatless but full of flavor, combining rigatoni with a creamy sauce and spinach. On the table in less than 30 minutes, it’s a great midweek comfort meal when you’re over the grind and need something easy.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
Kung Pao Shrimp
Kung pao shrimp is a quick dinner that saves you from ordering takeout. Shrimp, peanuts, and a flavorful sauce come together fast. Serve it with rice and veggies for a meal that’s perfect for a long, tiring Wednesday night.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Shrimp
Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet
Ground beef and cabbage make this skillet dinner super simple but packed with flavor. It’s a 30-minute dish with tons of texture and a light sauce, giving you a great option when the week feels like it’s dragging on.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet
Bucatini Cacio e Pepe
Bucatini cacio e pepe is as easy as it gets, with only five ingredients. This creamy, cheesy pasta is quick to make and perfect for when you want something great but don’t have the energy to spend hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Bucatini Cacio e Pepe
Pecan Crusted Chicken
Pecan crusted chicken brings a crunchy kick to your dinner plate, and when paired with honey dijon yogurt sauce, it’s a win. A simple weeknight meal that everyone will ask for again when you just want to get through the day.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Crusted Chicken
Cod Piccata
Cod piccata gives you a punch of flavor without much effort. With lemon, capers, and flaky cod, this quick dinner will help you survive a long week. Perfect for when you want a bright dish with minimal prep.
Get the Recipe: Cod Piccata
Chicken Lime Soup
Chicken lime soup is like chicken noodle’s cooler cousin with a spicy, bold twist. It’s simple, comforting, and just what you need when the week feels endless.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Lime Soup
Mexican Vegetable Soup
This Mexican vegetable soup is quick, hearty, and packed with quinoa for some extra oomph. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s great for when you need something fast that’s also filling.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Vegetable Soup
Ground Beef Stir Fry
Ground beef stir fry is a no-fuss, one-pan dinner that beats any takeout. Loaded with fresh veggies and a simple garlic-ginger sauce, it’s ready in no time and perfect for a busy weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Stir Fry
Healthier Sloppy Joes
These Sloppy Joes are a leaner take on the classic, but still just as tasty. Made with ground beef and a light sauce, they’re a great way to get through Wednesday night without too much work.
Get the Recipe: Healthier Sloppy Joes
Cream Cheese Chicken
Cream cheese chicken is the answer to those boring weeknight meals. Loaded with flavor-packed spices and a creamy sauce, it’s a perfect midweek fix when you’re low on energy but still want a meal that hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Chicken
Dijon Almond Crusted Tilapia
This dijon almond crusted tilapia is pan-fried and ready in 10 minutes flat. It’s a great choice when you want something fast and easy but still packed with crunch.
Get the Recipe: Dijon Almond Crusted Tilapia
Vegetable Cheddar Quesadilla
Toss some veggies and cheddar into a quesadilla and call it dinner. Whether you use frozen or fresh veggies, this is a no-brainer for a quick meal when the week feels never-ending.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Cheddar Quesadilla
Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
