Chicken Fried Rice
Chicken fried rice is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish made with cooked rice stir-fried with savory ingredients. Tender pieces of chicken are stir-fried with fluffy cooked rice, vegetables like peas and carrots, and scrambled eggs. It’s often seasoned with soy sauce and other Asian flavors for a complex and satisfying combination. Since chicken fried rice is a complete meal in itself with protein, carbs, and vegetables, it can be enjoyed on its own. However, if you’re looking to expand the meal, there are many delicious options. Simple steamed or stir-fried vegetables add extra color and nutrients. A refreshing cucumber salad with a light vinaigrette provides a cool contrast. For a heartier option, you can serve it with egg drop soup, potstickers, or even a side of teriyaki chicken or sweet and sour pork.
Pot Roast
Traditional Comfort Food
Another easy dinner idea is Pot roast . It is a classic comfort food featuring a beef chuck roast braised low and slow until it achieves fork-tender perfection. This cooking method transforms the tough cut of meat into a fall-apart, flavorful masterpiece, usually surrounded by a medley of carrots, potatoes, celery and onions. The savory and meaty juices of the pot roast are ideal for pairing with sides that soak up all the delicious flavor. Fluffy mashed potatoes are a must, while a side of tender roasted vegetables adds color and texture. Crusty dinner rolls are ideal for mopping up every last bit of gravy, and a side salad adds a refreshing touch to the hearty meal.
Sloppy Joe
The Easiest of Easy Dinner Ideas
A sloppy joe is a classic American sandwich featuring a savory mixture of ground beef, onions, and a sweet and tangy tomato-based sauce served on a hamburger bun. It’s a messy, delicious, and comforting meal that’s the easiest of easy dinner ideas to make and perfect for feeding a crowd. To complement the richness of the sloppy joe filling, pair it with sides that offer contrasting textures and flavors. A simple green salad, baked beans, or creamy coleslaw are all classic options. For a touch of crunch, potato chips, tater tots, or crispy onion rings add a satisfying contrast.
Chicken Pot Pie
Easy Dinner Idea Made with Rotisserie Chicken
Chicken pot pie is a comfort food favorite. Made with tender chicken and hearty vegetable encased in a flaky, golden crust. This hearty dish can mostly be enjoyed on its own, but sometimes you might crave a little something extra. You may opt for more protein so pairing with chicken is a consideration.
Shrimp Cakes
Light Dinner Idea
Shrimp cakes are a creative way to enjoy shrimp. It is made with seasoned chopped shrimp, breadcrumbs and egg. They’re pan-fried until golden brown, yielding a satisfyingly crispy exterior and tender interior. To complement their flavors, pair them with sides that offer fresh, contrasting notes. An Asian-inspired cucumber salad pairs well with these patties. Remoulade sauce, a classic accompaniment, adds richness and spice.
Goulash
Comforting Easy Dinner Idea
American goulash is a hearty and comforting one-pot easy dinner idea. Made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce. It’s a classic family-friendly dish that’s quick, easy to make, and full of flavor. To complement the richness of American goulash, pair it with sides that offer freshness and contrast. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing counterpoint. Garlic bread is always a welcome addition for dipping up any extra sauce.
Honey Garlic Salmon
Elegant Dinner Recipe
Honey garlic salmon is a quick and flavorful dish featuring flaky salmon fillets pan-seared or baked then coated in a sticky and savory glaze. The glaze balances the sweetness of honey, the sharpness of garlic, and often a touch of soy sauce for saltiness. This dish is incredibly satisfying on its own, but a few simple sides elevate it even further. Fluffy rice perfectly soaks up the sweet and savory sauce, while roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli add color and freshness. For a touch of indulgence, creamy mashed potatoes are a delicious and comforting accompaniment.
Oven Baked BBQ Ribs
Hearty Dinner
Oven-baked barbecue ribs are a finger-licking good comfort food. They’re made with succulent ribs, typically baby back or spare ribs, that are seasoned with a dry rub for smoky depth and flavor. The ribs are then slow-cooked in the oven until they become fall-off-the-bone tender and basted with a flavorful barbecue sauce. This sauce can range from sweet and tangy to smoky and spicy, depending on your preference. The beauty of oven-baked barbecue ribs is their versatility when it comes to side dishes. Classic pairings include creamy mashed potatoes, tangy coleslaw, and baked beans for a true barbecue feast. You can also opt for lighter options like a refreshing green salad or roasted vegetables to cut through the richness of the ribs. No matter what you choose, oven-baked barbecue ribs are sure to satisfy your craving for a delicious and comforting meal.
Orange Roughy
Orange roughy is a white-fleshed fish with a mild, delicate flavor and a firm, flaky texture. Its subtle sweetness makes it a versatile choice for a variety of preparations. Since orange roughy has a light taste, it pairs well with sides that complement it without overpowering its flavor profile. Steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or carrots offer a healthy and colorful side dish. Rice, quinoa, or couscous provide a satisfying base to soak up any delicious sauces, and a simple green salad with a light dressing adds a touch of freshness to the meal.
Crab Cakes
Whenever I make Crab cakes it is such a treat. Theses cakes are made with delicious lump crab meat and baked until golden. To complement the richness of the crab and not overpower its delicate taste, crab cakes are often paired with lighter sides. A refreshing green salad, bean salad or roasted vegetables add a touch of color and healthy fiber. For a truly classic pairing, try them with remoulade sauce, a rich and creamy sauce flavored with herbs and a touch of spice.
