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33 Dinners I Make When The Clock Hits Panic Mode

Time constraints often make preparing nutritious and tasty dinners seem impossible, but it doesn’t have to be that way with these 33 speedy meals perfect for any hectic evening rush hour situation! Each recipe is crafted to get food on the table quickly without sacrificing quality or taste – keeping everyone happy even when schedules conflict or unexpected events occur late in the day! This collection turns those last-minute scrambles into an opportunity rather than an ordeal by offering hassle-free solutions every night of the week.

Texas BLT on a black slate plate.
Texas BLT. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Bacon Grilled Cheese Sandwiches w/ Hot Honey Butter

Four grilled cheese sandwiches with hot honey butter on a black slate serving board.
Bacon Grilled Cheese Sandwiches w/ Hot Honey Butter. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you’re in a rush, Bacon Grilled Cheese Sandwiches w/ Hot Honey Butter can be a lifesaver. This upgraded classic combines crispy bacon with melted cheese between perfectly toasted bread slices. The addition of hot honey butter brings a sweet and spicy kick to the sandwich. It’s quick to make and sure to please both kids and adults alike. This comfort food favorite is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a filling meal in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Grilled Cheese Sandwiches w/ Hot Honey Butter

Mediterranean Salmon

Mediterranean Salmon on a white rectangular plate.
Mediterranean Salmon. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

For a healthy and flavorful dinner option, consider Mediterranean Salmon. This dish brings together the rich taste of salmon with the bright flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. It’s easy to prepare and cooks quickly, making it ideal for hectic evenings. The combination of herbs and spices adds depth to the fish without overpowering its natural flavor.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Salmon

Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches

Greek Meatball Pita Sandwich served on a white rectangular plate.
Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

When you’re craving something different, Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches offer a delicious solution. These handheld meals combine seasoned meatballs with fresh vegetables and tangy tzatziki sauce. The pita bread provides a perfect vessel for holding all the ingredients together. It’s a great way to introduce Greek flavors into your weeknight dinner rotation.
Get the Recipe: Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches

Ground Beef Fried Rice

Ground Beef Fried Rice. Photo credit: Dinner By Six.
Ground Beef Fried Rice. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Ground Beef Fried Rice is a versatile and filling option that uses leftover rice and vegetables. This one-pan meal comes together quickly and can be customized based on what you have in your fridge. The ground beef adds protein and flavor to the dish. It’s a great way to use up odds and ends in your kitchen while creating a pleasurable meal.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Fried Rice

Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich

A roast beef sandwich with melted cheese on a hoagie roll, accompanied by crinkle-cut fries and a bowl of brown dipping sauce on the side.
Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

When you’re in the mood for restaurant-quality food at home, try making Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich. This classic sandwich features thinly sliced roast beef on a crusty roll, served with a side of flavorful au jus for dipping. The combination of tender meat and flavorful broth creates a memorable eating experience. It’s surprisingly simple to make at home and can be ready in no time.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich

Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak

Double halves of Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak on a slate plate.
Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

For a quick twist on a classic, try the Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak. This version uses ground beef instead of sliced steak, making it faster to cook and easier on the budget. The beef is seasoned and mixed with sautéed peppers and onions, then topped with melted cheese. Served on a soft roll, it captures the essence of the original Philly cheesesteak.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak

Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle

A plate of Thai pork & Green beans with rice, topped with a fried egg, served with chopsticks on the side.
Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Bring some excitement to your dinner table with Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle. This dish combines tender pork with crisp green beans in a flavorful Thai-inspired sauce. The Blackstone griddle gives the ingredients a nice char and keeps everything hot. It’s a one-pan meal that’s quick to prepare and cook.
Get the Recipe: Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle

Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito

A close-up of a hand holding a copycat Taco Bell Cantina chicken burrito.
Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Fulfill your fast food cravings at home with the Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito. This homemade version lets you control the ingredients while still enjoying the flavors you love. The burrito is filled with seasoned chicken, rice, beans, and your favorite toppings. It’s easy to customize based on individual preferences and dietary needs.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito

Diner Style Salisbury Steak

A plate of Salisbury steak with gravy on mashed potatoes, and a side of peas on a white square dish. The meal is set on a white wooden table beside silver cutlery and a floral napkin.
Diner Style Salisbury Steak. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

When comfort food is calling, answer with Diner Style Salisbury Steak. This classic dish features seasoned ground beef patties smothered in a rich mushroom gravy. It’s a hearty meal that comes together quickly on busy weeknights. Serve it with mashed potatoes or egg noodles to soak up the delicious sauce. This dish brings the nostalgia of diner food to your own kitchen, providing a pleasurable meal for the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Diner Style Salisbury Steak

Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers

A plate of Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers sprinkled with chopped herbs.
Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Bring the flavors of your favorite Italian restaurant home with Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers. This simple yet flavorful dish combines spicy Italian sausage with colorful bell peppers and onions. The ingredients are sautéed together, creating a perfect blend of flavors. It’s a versatile dish that can be served on its own, over pasta, or on a crusty roll.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers

Chinese Chicken Salad

A bowl of Chinese chicken salad with shredded chicken, snap peas, carrots, and peppers, accompanied by a bottle of dressing on the side.
Chinese Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

For a light yet fulfilling meal, try the Chinese Chicken Salad. This refreshing salad combines crisp vegetables with tender chicken and a tangy dressing. The mix of textures and flavors makes it an interesting and enjoyable meal. It’s easy to prepare in advance, making it perfect for busy evenings. This salad is a great way to use leftover chicken and can be customized with your favorite vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup

Two bowls of Copycat Jason's Deli Irish Potato Soup on a wooden table.
Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Warm up with a bowl of Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup. This creamy soup is full of tender potatoes and delicious flavors. It’s a comforting meal that comes together quickly on the stovetop. The soup can be easily customized with additional toppings like cheese or bacon. It’s perfect for those nights when you need something warm and comforting without a lot of fuss.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup

Pastrami Reuben Sandwich

A Pastrami Reuben sandwich on a plate with chips and pickles.
Pastrami Reuben Sandwich. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you’re craving a deli classic, make a Pastrami Reuben Sandwich at home. This sandwich layers tender pastrami with tangy sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing on rye bread. The combination of flavors and textures makes each bite interesting and delicious. It’s quick to assemble and can be toasted for that perfect crunch. This sandwich brings the deli to your kitchen, providing a pleasurable meal in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Pastrami Reuben Sandwich

Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich

Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich on a white plate with chips.
Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Experience a Midwest classic with the Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich. This simple yet pleasurable sandwich features seasoned ground beef on a soft bun. The meat is cooked with onions and a blend of spices for maximum flavor. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This sandwich is a great alternative to traditional burgers and can feed a crowd with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich

Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Three pieces of Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions on a white rectangular plate.
Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a quick and flavorful meal, try Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs. The air fryer cooks the chicken quickly, resulting in juicy meat with crispy skin. The honey garlic sauce adds a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. This dish comes together in minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings. Serve with a side of vegetables or rice for a complete meal. It’s a great way to enjoy flavorful chicken without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots on parchment paper, topped with Alfredo cheese, green onions, and a drizzle of white sauce, placed on a dark rectangular slate plate.
Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Indulge in a fun and filling meal with Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots. This dish combines crispy tater tots with the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak. The tots are topped with seasoned steak, peppers, onions, and melted cheese. It’s a crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for casual dinners or game nights. This dish comes together quickly and can be customized with your favorite toppings.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

Reuben Sliders

Reuben sliders on a slate board.
Reuben Sliders. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you need to feed a crowd quickly, Reuben Sliders are the answer. These mini sandwiches pack all the flavors of a classic Reuben into a bite-sized package. They’re made with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing on small rolls. The sliders can be assembled ahead of time and baked all at once, making them perfect for busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Reuben Sliders

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips on a white plate.
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Bring steakhouse flavors home with Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips. This dish features tender pieces of beef in a rich, delicious gravy. The beef is quickly seared and then simmered in a flavorful sauce. It’s a hearty meal that comes together faster than you might expect. Serve over rice or mashed potatoes to soak up all the delicious sauce. This dish is perfect for when you want a special meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

Ham & Asparagus Pizza

A pizza with ham and asparagus on a pizza stone.
Ham & Asparagus Pizza. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a quick and unique pizza night, try Ham & Asparagus Pizza. This pizza combines the saltiness of ham with the fresh flavor of asparagus, creating a balanced and delicious topping. It’s a great way to use leftover ham and introduce vegetables to your pizza. The pizza can be made with store-bought dough to save time on busy evenings. It’s a fun twist on traditional pizza that the whole family can enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Ham & Asparagus Pizza

Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Close-up of a hand holding a fork with a bite of copycat Alice spring chicken.
Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Enjoy restaurant-quality chicken at home with Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken. This dish features grilled chicken breast topped with mushrooms, bacon, and melted cheese. The honey mustard sauce adds a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. It’s a simple yet impressive meal that comes together quickly. This dish is perfect for when you want something a little special without a lot of effort.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Blackstone Sausage & Peppers

A bowl of sausage and peppers.
Blackstone Sausage & Peppers. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Fire up the Blackstone for a quick and flavorful meal of Blackstone Sausage & Peppers. This classic combination of Italian sausage with colorful bell peppers and onions cooks quickly on the griddle. The high heat gives everything a nice char while keeping the vegetables crisp-tender. It’s a versatile dish that can be served on its own, over pasta, or on a crusty roll.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Sausage & Peppers

Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

A white bowl of rigatoni pasta with creamy sauce, garnished with cheese and green herbs, is placed on a wooden surface. A hand is holding a fork with a piece of pasta.
Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Bring the taste of Italy home with Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka. This creamy pasta dish features rigatoni in a rich tomato and vodka sauce. The vodka adds depth to the sauce without making it taste of alcohol. It’s a quick dish to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners. If desired, add some grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. This pasta feels indulgent but comes together in the time it takes to boil the noodles.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

Leftover Steak Quesadilla

A hand holding wedges of a quesadilla.
Leftover Steak Quesadilla. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Make the most of your leftovers with a Leftover Steak Quesadilla. This quick meal repurposes leftover steak into a new and exciting dish. The steak is chopped and combined with cheese and your choice of vegetables between tortillas. It’s a great way to stretch a small amount of leftover steak into a filling meal. The quesadillas cook quickly in a skillet or on a griddle.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Quesadilla

Mediterranean Cod

Mediterranean cod on a rectangular platter.
Mediterranean Cod. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a light and flavorful dinner, try Mediterranean Cod. This dish combines flaky cod with Mediterranean-inspired flavors like tomatoes, olives, and herbs. The fish cooks quickly, making it perfect for busy evenings. The bright flavors of the Mediterranean ingredients complement the mild cod perfectly. Serve with a side of couscous or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cod

Baja Fish Tacos

Baja fish tacos on a white plate.
Baja Fish Tacos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bring the taste of the beach home with Baja Fish Tacos. These tacos feature crispy fish topped with a tangy slaw and creamy sauce. The fish cooks quickly, whether you choose to fry or bake it. The combination of textures and flavors makes each bite interesting and delicious. These tacos are customizable and can be assembled quickly once the components are ready.
Get the Recipe: Baja Fish Tacos

Steak & Pasta Salad

A black bowl filled with a pasta salad containing farfalle, steak slices, radishes, cherry tomatoes, lettuce, nuts, and crumbled blue cheese, garnished with parsley, on a wooden board next to a spoon.
Steak & Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a hearty and enjoyable meal, try Steak & Pasta Salad. This dish combines tender pieces of steak with pasta and a variety of fresh vegetables. The steak can be cooked quickly on the stovetop or grill. The pasta salad can be prepared ahead of time and combined with the warm steak just before serving. It’s a great way to use leftover steak or to turn a small amount of steak into a filling meal for the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Pasta Salad

Ham Fried Rice

Ham fried rice on a white plate.
Ham Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Make the most of leftover ham with Ham Fried Rice. This quick and easy dish combines diced ham with rice, vegetables, and eggs. It’s a great way to use up leftovers and create a whole new meal. The dish comes together quickly in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. You can customize it with whatever vegetables you have on hand. This fried rice is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a filling meal without much fuss.
Get the Recipe: Ham Fried Rice

Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Chicken Salad with Walnuts and Cranberries in a bowl.
Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a light yet filling meal, try Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts. This salad combines tender chicken with the sweetness of dried cranberries and the crunch of walnuts. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time, making it perfect for busy evenings. The salad can be served on its own, over greens, or as a sandwich filling. It’s a great way to use leftover chicken and create a whole new meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Air Fryer chicken cordon bleu on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Enjoy a classic dish with less effort using Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. The air fryer cooks the chicken quickly, resulting in a crispy exterior and juicy interior. The chicken is stuffed with ham and cheese for a flavorful and pleasurable meal. It’s a great way to upgrade chicken breasts without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish feels special but comes together quickly, perfect for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Shrimp Scampi Pizza

A pizza with shrimp and cheese on top.
Shrimp Scampi Pizza. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a unique twist on pizza night, try Shrimp Scampi Pizza. This pizza combines the flavors of shrimp scampi with the convenience of pizza. The shrimp cooks quickly and pairs well with garlic and cheese on a crispy crust. It’s a great way to incorporate seafood into your meal in a fun and familiar format. The pizza can be made with store-bought dough to save time on busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi Pizza

Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken fried rice on a white plate with a green napkin.
Chicken Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you need a quick and filling meal, Chicken Fried Rice is the answer. This one-pan dish combines tender chicken with rice and vegetables. It’s a great way to use leftover rice and any vegetables you have on hand. The dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or protein. This fried rice is a complete meal in itself and requires minimal cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta

Broccoli Rabe and Sausage in a serving bowl with tomatoes in the background.
Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a quick Italian-inspired meal, try Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta. This dish combines spicy Italian sausage with slightly bitter broccoli rabe and pasta. The flavors balance each other perfectly, creating a pleasurable meal. It’s a one-pan dish that comes together quickly, ideal for busy evenings. The pasta cooks in the same pan, absorbing all the delicious flavors.
Get the Recipe: Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta

Texas BLT

Texas BLT on a black slate plate.
Texas BLT. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

For a twist on a classic sandwich, try the Texas BLT. This hearty version takes the traditional bacon, lettuce, and tomato combination to new heights. The addition of Texas-inspired ingredients gives this sandwich a bold and unique flavor profile. It’s a perfect option for a quick lunch or dinner when you’re short on time but still want something pleasurable.
Get the Recipe: Texas BLT

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