Do you want a delicious dinner on the table quickly, but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen? Here are 10 of the quickest dinners that you can make in 20 minutes or less. These recipes are packed with flavor and nutrition and will have your family asking for seconds.
Whether it’s a weeknight family dinner or a special occasion meal, you’ll find something to fit your needs. From skillet meals to sandwiches and more, these recipes will have dinner on the table in a flash! So grab your apron and get cooking with one of these 10 easy dinner ideas that you can make in 20 minutes or less. Bon appetit!
10 Quickest Dinners You Can Make
Here are our quickest dinners you can make in no time:
1. Skillet Lasagna: This cheesy skillet lasagna is an easy and delicious dinner that takes just 20 minutes from start to finish. This filling meal is packed with layers of cheese, noodles and your favorite ground beef or sausage topping. Just add a salad and dinner is served!
How to prepare: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or sausage until browned. Add in the pasta salad and lasagna sauce, then top with cheese. Cover and cook over medium-high heat for 15 minutes or until the noodles are tender.
2. Baked Fish with Garlic-Lemon Sauce: Enjoy this tasty baked fish served with a creamy garlic-lemon sauce. The whole dish takes just 15 minutes to prepare and is sure to impress your family in the dinner table!
How to prepare: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Place the fish in an oven-proof dish and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder and freshly chopped parsley. Bake for 10 minutes or until the fish is cooked through. Meanwhile, prepare the sauce by combining melted butter, lemon juice, garlic and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Pour the sauce over the fish and continue baking for 5 minutes.
3. Baked Chicken Parmesan: This classic Italian favorite comes together quickly thanks to a store-bought marinara sauce and shredded cheese. Serve with your favorite pasta, or simply enjoy as is.
How to prepare: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Dip chicken cutlets into a mixture of Italian-style breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. Place the coated chicken on a greased baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, heat up store-bought marinara sauce in a small saucepan. Once the chicken is cooked through, top with marinara sauce and shredded cheese. Bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese melts.
4. Rotisserie Chicken Quesadillas: Transform your store-bought rotisserie chicken into these delicious quesadillas. These tasty sandwiches are perfect for busy weeknights and will have dinner on the table in no time!
How to prepare: To assemble the quesadillas, spread a layer of refried beans on one side of two large flour tortillas. Top with cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded cheese, and your favorite Mexican-style seasonings. Place the second tortilla over the top and press lightly to seal. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and spray with cooking oil. Place the quesadilla in the skillet, cover and cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until lightly golden brown and the cheese is melted. Cut into wedges and serve!
5. Sausage and Peppers: This classic Italian dish is a snap to make with just a few simple ingredients. Enjoy on its own or serve with your favorite rice or pasta.
How to prepare: In a large skillet, cook sausage until browned. Add in sliced bell peppers and onion and sauté for 5 minutes. Season with Italian seasoning, salt and pepper to taste. Add in canned diced tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10 minutes or until the vegetables are tender. Serve hot with your favorite sides!
6. Creamy Tomato Soup: This creamy tomato soup is a comforting and delicious dish that can be made in just 10 minutes! Serve with grilled cheese sandwiches for an easy meal the whole family will love.
How to prepare: Heat a large pot over medium heat and spray with cooking oil. Add in diced onion and garlic, then cook for 3-4 minutes or until the onions are softened. Pour in canned tomatoes and vegetable broth, and a bit of tomato sauce then bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and stir in heavy cream. Simmer for 5 minutes or until the soup is slightly thickened. Serve hot with freshly chopped parsley on top. Enjoy!
7. Black Bean–Stuffed Sweet Potatoes: Enjoy this wholesome and flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Sweet potatoes are stuffed with black beans, corn, and your favorite spices for a delicious meal.
How to prepare: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Prick sweet potatoes with a fork and place on a greased baking sheet. Bake for 45 minutes or until the potatoes are tender. Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium heat and spray with cooking oil. Add in black beans, corn, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt and pepper to taste. Cook until the vegetables are heated through, then remove from heat. When the potatoes are done, carefully slice them open and top with the black bean mixture. Drizzle with your favorite salsa or enchilada sauce and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Serve hot and enjoy!
8. Teriyaki Stir-Fry: This easy stir-fry comes together quickly and is packed with vegetables and flavorful teriyaki soy sauce. Serve with your favorite rice or noodles for a complete meal.
How to prepare: In a large skillet, heat up store-bought teriyaki sauce over medium heat. Add in sliced vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for 5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender. Serve hot with your favorite rice or noodles and a bit of hot sauce or hoisin sauce and enjoy!
9. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Enjoy this classic comfort food that takes just minutes to prepare. Make it extra special by adding your favorite ingredients like tomatoes and ham!
How to prepare: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and spray with cooking oil. Place two slices of bread in the skillet and top each one with cheese, tomatoes, ham, or whatever ingredients you desire. Top each slice of bread with another slice to make a sandwich. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side or until lightly golden brown and the cheese is melted.
10. Caprese Salad: Enjoy an Italian-inspired salad that’s full of flavor and comes together in just a few minutes. This meal is perfect for busy weeknights and special occasions alike!
How to prepare: Slice tomatoes and mozzarella cheese into thin slices. Arrange the slices onto a platter or plate and top with fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt and pepper to taste. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Quickest Dinners Bottom Line
These 10 quickest dinners are perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time. From creamy tomato soup to grilled cheese sandwiches, these quick dinner ideas will help you get a meal on the table in no time! With these simple dishes, you’ll be able to enjoy nutritious meals without spending hours in the kitchen.
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