Easy Homemade Dinner Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Here are 10 simple, homemade dinner ideas for busy weeknights.

Introduction

Making dinner at the end of a long and busy day can be a challenge. Lots of people are looking for a meal that can be prepared quickly, tastes great, is good for them and won't cost them an arm and a leg and they don't want to spend hours in the kitchen to do so. Thankfully, home cooking isn't rocket science. There are a variety of simple ingredients and easy cooking techniques that will make you able to create satisfying meals that the entire family will enjoy. These simple dinner ideas are great for weeknight cooking, whether you're preparing a dish for yourself or your family. They save time, reduce stress and allow you to eat new, fresh food rather than ordering food from a fast food or expensive restaurant.

Whys are homemade dinner recipes a great choice?

There are numerous advantages to making your own food. Cooking at home gives you control over your food ingredients, cuts down on unhealthy fats and preservatives, and improves your diet with more vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. Also, home cooking is an affordable option since you'll be able to use ingredients that you already have in your kitchen. Besides that, preparing homemade meals provide families with a chance to eat together and enjoy quality time while sharing healthy meals.

div><

div>

Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

Creamy garlic chicken pasta is one of the simplest comfort food dishes to make after work. The tender pieces of chicken are sautéed with garlic, butter, cream and parmesan cheese, and added to a freshly-made pasta. Serve with mushrooms, broccoli, or spinach for a healthy meal. It takes about 30 minutes to make and is very flavorful, which is what everyone will enjoy.

Lemon Herb Chicken and Veggies on one pan - 2.

For those who want to reduce the number of dishes washing, this is the best option for a one pan dinner. The chicken breasts are marinated with garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs, before being baked with potatoes, carrots, zucchini, and broccoli. All in one baking tray so little clean up needed and a tasty healthy meal.

3. Classic Beef Stir-Fry

Stir-Fried Beef is a one pot dinner with colorful vegetables and bold flavors. Beef is sliced thin and cooked with onions, bell peppers, broccoli and carrots then brushed with a thick soy sauce mixture and savory. Serve stir-fry over steamed rice or noodles for quick, ready-to-eat meal in less than 30 minutes.

4. Easy Homemade Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken Fried Rice is a good means of utilizing leftover rice and vegetables. Cook diced chicken, onions, carrot, pea and scrambled eggs together, and then cooked rice. Dip with soy and sesame oil to season to taste. It's a filling, budget-friendly meal and an ideal solution for busy nights.

6. Cheesy Baked Pasta Casserole

Pasta casseroles make a great family meal, since it is a relatively easy dish to make and serve to multiple people. Prepare pasta, toss in seasoned ground beef or chicken, tomato sauce, herbs and mozzarella cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden. Enjoy with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a com

7. Healthy BBQ Turkey or Chicken Burger.8. Healthyen Pizzas. Turkey or Chick

forting dinner.Tacos are fun, customizable, and very easy to make. Over-cook ground turkey or chicken with onions and garlic, then add to soft tortillas. Place lettuce, tomatoes, shredded cheese, avocado, salsa and sour cream on top to make a wonderful dinner, each person can dress it up with their own favorite toppings.

7. Homemade Vegetable Soup

Serving of vegetables soup is healthy and soothing. Place onions, carrots, celery, potato, tomatoes, green beans, peas and vegetable broth in a pot. For extra flavor, add herbs such as thyme and parsley. Serve with crusty bread for a delicious evening meal for colder nights.

8. Garlic Butter Baked Salmon.

Salmon is a rich source of protein and healthy omega 3 fatty acids. Just add garlic, butter, lemon juice, black pepper and parsley to salmon fillets and bake for about 20 minutes. Serve a healthy dinner prepared at home, with roasted vegetables or steamed rice, and it's like you're dining out.

9. Homemade Chicken Quesadillas

Chicken quesadillas make for an easy meal, with minimal ingredients. Prep tortillas with cooked chicken, cheddar cheese, onions and bell peppers and grill until crispy and golden brown. Cut into wedges and top with salsa, guacamole or sour cream to enjoy a quick and easy dinner.

10. Easy Beef and Potato Skillet

A delicious skillet meal with ground beef, diced potatoes, onions, garlic and basic spices all served in the same pan. All ingredients are cooked together until potatoes are tender and beef is nicely browned. Top with shredded cheese and fresh parsley for an inexpensive family meal, sure to be enjoyed by all!

Get quicker at cooking faster during the week night season with these tips.

Making things ahead of time can help make weeknight dinners a breeze. Prepare extra rice or pasta for later meals, chop vegetables over the weekend and cook extra vegetables for future meals, keep frozen vegetables available for easy recipes. Another benefit of having a weekly meal plan is that it helps to alleviate stress and avoid the last minute decision on what to cook.

Healthy Ingredient Swaps

For a healthier version of these homemade dinners, opt for whole wheat pasta, brown rice, lean chicken breast, turkey meat instead of beef, low fat cheese and an abundance of fresh vegetables. Increased flavor and nutrition through the use of herbs and spices in place of too much salt.

Final Thoughts

Good food shouldn't have to be sacrificed due to a hectic schedule. The 10 home-made dinner ideas below are simple, yet delicious and perfect for sharing with family, couples and individuals alike. Making your own meals at home will save you money, help you improve your diet, and give you fresh meals every day. Try these recipes for the rest of the week, and see just how easy it can be to cook at home. When you plan ahead with some simple ingredients, dinner doesn't have to be stressful or tedious, and will be so much more enjoyable, making every weeknight better.