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17 Easy Meals That Will Make You Want to Ditch the Takeout Menus and Put on Your Chef’s Hat

Who needs takeout when you can create quick and enjoyable dinners right in your kitchen? These 17 easy recipes will help you cut down on ordering out. They are perfect for busy nights when you still want a meal that feels special but doesn’t require too much time or effort. Ready your cooking tools and enjoy the process of making something great!

Salmon pasta salad in a black dish.
Salmon Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs in a bowl.
Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For those looking to cook with less oil, using an air fryer is a smart move. Juicy meatballs are a perfect choice for a delicious meal that works on its own or as a companion to your favorite sides. Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs can be the star of your next family dinner, combining health with the homely joy of cooking. Enjoy the wholesome taste of home-prepared meatballs without the grease of traditional frying.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Chicken Fried Rice

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

When the craving for comfort food hits, it doesn’t get much better than a bowl of savory fried rice. Whip up a version that is better than any fast-food option using chicken for a filling and energy-packed meal. Chicken Fried Rice is a versatile dish that easily adapts to your taste preferences, ensuring every forkful is as enjoyable as the last. It’s a quick solution for those evenings when you need something both effortless and enriching.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Mediterranean Cod

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

Bringing a flavor of the sea to your table, this light and flaky fish option is inspired by sunny Mediterranean cuisine. Mediterranean Cod offers a healthy and straightforward dinner choice, sure to impress with its subtle yet inviting taste profile. It’s just the ticket for a light dinner or a nutritious lunch that will keep you feeling full and satisfied. Simple, swift, and full of flavor—this meal is a breeze to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cod

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

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

Imagine taking a sophisticated restaurant favorite and making it easily at home. Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu transforms a classic dish into a less labor-intensive version without sacrificing the essence of what makes it a beloved meal. With every crispy bite, enjoy the harmonious blend of chicken, ham, and cheese. This meal is perfect for those moments when you want to bring a touch of elegance to your dining table.
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.

Have a love for both seafood and pizza? Shrimp Scampi Pizza blends the two in a unique twist that jazzes up your typical pizza night. With its combination of flavors and easy prep, it’s a great way to add a seafood flair to your weekly meal rotation. It’s a fusion that will surprise and make your in-home dining experience feel new and exciting.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi Pizza

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.

Add a bit of crunch to your lunch with a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts incorporates a pleasant texture contrast with the sweetness of fruit and the earthy taste of nuts. This chicken salad brings a burst of freshness to your midday meal and satisfies without weighing you down. It’s a splendid pick for a quick lunch or a light dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Steak & Pasta Salad

Overheat shot of steakhouse pasta salad.
Steak & Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Who said salads have to be boring? Steak & Pasta Salad offers a hearty twist to the traditional green plate by adding succulent pieces of steak and pasta. It’s the ideal blend for those who want a substantial meal that still feels light and rejuvenating. Perfect for a busy weeknight, it promises satisfaction in every bite, with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Pasta Salad

Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins

Curried chicken salad in a blue bowl.
Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Spice things up with a dish that combines creamy and exotic flavors. Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins is an excellent choice for those who seek a meal with a little kick. The natural sweetness of raisins perfectly complements the spices, creating a meal that’s as delightful as it is unexpected. When you’re in the mood for something different, this chicken salad is a go-to.
Get the Recipe: Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins

Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

A plate of chicken thighs.
Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a meal that brings a hint of sweetness to a savory favorite, look no further. Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs offer a delightful blend that will draw everyone to the table. The ease of air frying means you get to enjoy deliciously coated chicken thighs that are cooked to perfection with less mess. It’s a simple dish with a big impact, perfect for evenings when you crave something home-cooked yet a bit more special.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Ham & Asparagus Pizza

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

Bring a touch of elegance to your pizza night with a recipe that’s simple yet feels gourmet. Ham & Asparagus Pizza pairs the smoky flavors of ham with the freshness of asparagus for a meal that feels fancy but is straightforward to make. This blend of ingredients creates a unique taste experience sure to break the monotony of typical pizza toppings. It’s a fresh take that’s sure to be a hit among adults and kids alike.
Get the Recipe: Ham & Asparagus Pizza

Salmon Pasta Salad

Salmon pasta salad in a black dish.
Salmon Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Combining pasta and omega-rich salmon creates a meal that’s both heart-healthy and filling. Salmon Pasta Salad is a cold dish that’s perfect for warm days or when you want a meal that’s refreshing and satisfying. It’s easy to put together, making it a solid choice for quick lunches or relaxed dinners. This salad is sure to become a regular request for those seeking a balance of taste and nutrition.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Salad

Pastrami Reuben Sandwich

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

For a lunchtime option that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, reach for a classic that never disappoints. Pastrami Reuben Sandwich is a tried and true favorite that offers layers of taste with every bite. Its filling nature makes it ideal for a busy day when you need a meal that keeps you going. Rye bread, pastrami, and the traditional fixings come together to create a sandwich that’s truly a feast in itself.
Get the Recipe: Pastrami Reuben Sandwich

Chicken Tinga Tostadas

Chicken Tinga Tostada on a plate.
Chicken Tinga Tostadas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re looking to add some excitement to your meal times, try a dish that’s vibrant and full of flavor. Chicken Tinga Tostadas bring a touch of Mexican cuisine to your kitchen, with a blend of spices that will awaken your palate. They’re not only bursting with taste but also fun to assemble, making dinner time an interactive experience. It’s a great way to explore new flavors while keeping meal prep simple and enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga Tostadas

Reuben Sliders

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

Why not make your next gathering with friends a memorable one with bite-sized delights sure to please a crowd? Reuben Sliders take the beloved sandwich and shrink it down to a fun, shareable size. These little guys are packed with all the traditional flavors you love, ready to satisfy and perfect for snacking. They add a playful twist to your meal offerings that everyone will be excited to grab.
Get the Recipe: Reuben Sliders

Baja Fish Tacos

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

There’s nothing like the taste of fresh seafood wrapped in a soft tortilla to remind you of the seashore. Baja Fish Tacos offer a light meal with a fresh zing that is simple to pull together. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or weekend get-together, these tacos provide a mini escape to the beach with every bite. It’s a casual yet flavorful option that’s sure to make waves at your table.
Get the Recipe: Baja Fish Tacos

Ham Fried Rice

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

Stir up something different for dinner with a fusion that brings together two beloved ingredients. Ham Fried Rice is a satisfying one-pan wonder that fills up the belly with warmth and hearty flavors. It’s an excellent way to repurpose leftovers into a quick and inviting meal. If you’re after a fast and friendly dish, this fried rice is exactly what you need.
Get the Recipe: Ham 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.

Enjoying Italian cuisine doesn’t always require a trip to a restaurant or a day spent in the kitchen. Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta is a quick and robust dish that brings a bit of Italy to your dining room in no time. It mixes the bold flavors of sausage with nutritious greens, offering a balanced meal that’s a breeze to prepare. This pasta affair is a fantastic way to spice up your dinner routine without all the bother.
Get the Recipe: Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta

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