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Home » Roundups

17 Simple Dinners for When You’re Not Sure What to Cook

By: kseniaprints · Updated: Dec 11, 2024 · This post may contain affiliate links.

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Finding dinner inspiration can feel impossible when you’re tired and out of ideas, but these 17 recipes are here to help. Each one is simple to make, uses everyday ingredients, and delivers a meal that satisfies without much effort. They’re practical options for busy weeknights or those days when you don’t want to overthink what’s for dinner. With a mix of flavors and quick prep times, these recipes make cooking dinner stress-free and straightforward.

A bowl of creamy mushroom soup, a perfect choice for simple dinners, is garnished with chopped herbs and ground pepper. A spoon rests in the bowl, and the rich, speckled appearance invites you to savor each bite. The bowl sits elegantly on a light-colored surface.
Hungarian Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken And Veggies

A roasted chicken on a tray surrounded by roasted vegetables, such as onions, carrots, and herbs. Two hands hold the tray at the edges. The chicken is golden-brown and crispy.
Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

This sheet pan recipe combines juicy chicken with crisp, seasoned veggies for a complete meal in just 40 minutes. Paprika gives the dish a smoky depth, while roasted carrots and potatoes add heartiness. It’s a flavorful, no-fuss option that’s perfect for busy nights. The balanced flavors make it comforting and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken And Veggies

Cheesy Cabbage Casserole with Cracker Topping (No Canned Soup)

A spoon lifts a portion of cheesy baked casserole from a dish, showcasing one of those cheap but tasty meals. The casserole features a golden-brown crust and melted cheese, with visible layers of pasta and creamy sauce.
Cheesy Cabbage Casserole with Cracker Topping (No Canned Soup). Photo credit: Thermocookery.

This baked casserole features tender cabbage, a rich cheese sauce, and a crispy cracker topping, ready in under an hour. The combination of savory, cheesy goodness and crunchy topping makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. There’s no canned soup, so it tastes fresh and homemade. It’s a comforting option for anyone craving a warm, filling dinner.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cabbage Casserole with Cracker Topping (No Canned Soup)

Baked Creamy Salmon

A baked dish featuring a seasoned fillet of fish placed in the center, surrounded by roasted potato wedges. The fish has a golden, crispy texture, and the potatoes show a light dusting of herbs. Everything is arranged on a baking tray.
Baked Creamy Salmon. Photo Credits: At the Immigrant's Table.

This baked salmon is cooked with a creamy, herby sauce that highlights its natural flavors, all in under 30 minutes. With dill and garlic enhancing the fish, the result is rich yet light. It pairs well with roasted vegetables or rice for a complete dinner. It’s a simple way to enjoy seafood without overthinking it.
Get the Recipe: Baked Creamy Salmon

Salmon Sheet Pan Casserole Recipe

A roasted cauliflower dish on a baking sheet, garnished with lemon slices and olives. A small bowl of green olives and a dish with a sauce are visible in the background on a burlap cloth.
Salmon Sheet Pan Casserole Recipe. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

This sheet pan casserole features flaky salmon baked alongside cauliflower and tomatoes for a nutrient-packed meal in 35 minutes. The salmon’s richness is complemented by the roasted veggies’ natural sweetness. It’s a healthy and hassle-free dinner that doesn’t skimp on taste. This recipe makes eating well both simple and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Sheet Pan Casserole Recipe

Mujadara

White casserole dish with middle eastern mujadara.
Mujadara. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Mujadara is a Middle Eastern dish of lentils and rice topped with caramelized onions, ready in about 45 minutes. The smoky, sweet onions pair perfectly with the earthy lentils and fluffy rice. It’s a filling vegetarian meal packed with flavor and protein. This comforting classic is ideal for a satisfying dinner.
Get the Recipe: Mujadara

Chicken Sausage And Veggies Sheet Pan Recipe

Close-up of roasted meatballs with a mix of colorful, chopped bell peppers and zucchini slices.
Chicken Sausage And Veggies Sheet Pan Recipe. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

This sheet pan recipe combines savory chicken sausage with roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and potatoes in just 30 minutes. The mix of spices adds warmth, while the veggies caramelize beautifully in the oven. It’s a colorful and hearty dish that’s both healthy and easy. Perfect for nights when you need something quick and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Sausage And Veggies Sheet Pan Recipe

Spaghetti With Mushroom Marinara Sauce

A bowl of spaghetti topped with a rich, chunky tomato sauce with diced vegetables and olives, sprinkled with grated cheese and garnished with fresh basil leaves, featured in our weekly food guide.
Pasta. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

This spaghetti dish features a rich marinara sauce made with fresh mushrooms, tomatoes, and garlic, ready in 30 minutes. The mushrooms add a meaty texture and earthy flavor, making it a hearty vegetarian option. Served over al dente pasta, it’s a comforting and flavorful meal. Pair it with garlic bread for an easy weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti With Mushroom Marinara Sauce

Savory Galette With Caramelized Onions And Pumpkin

A rustic galette with almond flakes is partially sliced on parchment paper, captured in an auto draft. A pie server is placed near the galette, and two pieces have been served on a small plate. Nearby, small bowls of peppercorns and a white powder, possibly sugar, complete the scene.
Pumpkin Galette. Photo Credit: At The Immigrant's Table.

This galette combines flaky pastry with sweet caramelized onions and roasted pumpkin for a unique dinner in about an hour. The crust is buttery and tender, while the filling is savory with a hint of natural sweetness. It’s a great choice for a lighter but satisfying meal. Serve it with a green salad to round it out.
Get the Recipe: Savory Galette With Caramelized Onions And Pumpkin

Chicken And Rice Casserole

Chicken plov on a plate with a fork.
Chicken And Rice Casserole. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

This chicken and rice casserole is a hearty meal that combines tender chicken, fragrant rice, and spices, ready in an hour. The rice absorbs the flavors of the chicken and seasonings, creating a cohesive and comforting dish. It’s filling, simple, and perfect for family dinners. Add a side of steamed vegetables to complete the meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken And Rice Casserole

Vegetarian Kofta Kebabs Recipe

Kebabs on a plate with a lemon wedge.
Vegetarian Kofta Kebabs Recipe. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

These vegetarian kofta kebabs are spiced chickpea patties that pack a punch of flavor, ready in about 40 minutes. The mix of herbs and spices gives them an aromatic boost, while the texture is satisfyingly crispy on the outside and tender inside. They pair beautifully with yogurt sauce or pita bread. This is a flavorful, plant-based dinner that doesn’t disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Kofta Kebabs Recipe

Instant Pot Chicken With Sweet Peppers

Instant Pot Chicken With Sweet Peppers. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

This Instant Pot recipe delivers tender chicken and sweet peppers in a savory sauce, ready in just 25 minutes. The peppers’ sweetness balances the spiced chicken for a rich, satisfying flavor. It’s a quick, protein-packed meal that pairs well with rice or flatbread. Perfect for nights when you need something fast and tasty.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken With Sweet Peppers

Middle Eastern Tofu Rice Bowl

Middle eastern rice bowl close up.
Middle Eastern Tofu Rice Bowl. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

This tofu rice bowl features crispy tofu over fluffy rice with Middle Eastern-inspired spices, ready in 35 minutes. Fresh herbs, tahini, and pickled veggies add layers of flavor to the dish. It’s a healthy, balanced meal that’s full of taste and texture. This recipe makes tofu anything but boring.
Get the Recipe: Middle Eastern Tofu Rice Bowl

Roasted Salmon On A Bed Of Apples And Potatoes

Roasted Salmon On A Bed Of Apples And Potatoes. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

This dish combines salmon with roasted apples and potatoes for a sweet and savory meal, ready in 40 minutes. The apples’ sweetness complements the salmon’s richness, while the potatoes add a hearty touch. It’s a creative and delicious way to enjoy seafood and produce together. Serve it with a side of greens for balance.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Salmon On A Bed Of Apples And Potatoes

Vegan Shawarma Pita With Tahini Sauce

A close-up of a wrap filled with shredded spiced meat, sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and lettuce drizzled with a red sauce and white dressing. The wrap appears to be made of a thin, white flatbread.
Vegan Shawarma Pita With Tahini Sauce. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

This vegan shawarma pita is filled with spiced chickpeas, fresh veggies, and creamy tahini sauce, ready in 30 minutes. The warm spices mimic traditional shawarma flavors without the meat. Wrapped in soft pita bread, it’s a satisfying and plant-based dinner option. It’s perfect for when you want something flavorful and fast.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Shawarma Pita With Tahini Sauce

Quinoa Fritters With Spring Peas, Feta And Cilantro-Chive Yogurt Sauce

A blue plate presents a quinoa patty topped with green peas and creamy sauce, perfect for those seeking simple dinners. Slices of radish surround the patty, while sprigs of chives add a fresh touch, making it an ideal choice for easy cooking enthusiasts.
Quinoa Fritters With Spring Peas, Feta And Cilantro-Chive Yogurt Sauce. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

These quinoa fritters are packed with spring peas and feta, served with a tangy yogurt sauce, ready in about 40 minutes. The fritters are crispy outside and tender inside, making them hearty and flavorful. The yogurt sauce adds a refreshing touch that complements the fritters perfectly. They’re great as a light dinner or paired with a salad.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa Fritters With Spring Peas, Feta And Cilantro-Chive Yogurt Sauce

Borlotti Beans In Tomato Sauce With Eggs

A pan filled with cooked white beans, tomatoes, and melted cheese, stirred with a wooden spoon. Steam rises from the mixture, indicating it is hot and freshly prepared—truly one of the best things you'll eat.
Borlotti Beans In Tomato Sauce With Eggs. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

This dish combines creamy borlotti beans in a tangy tomato sauce, topped with eggs, ready in about 35 minutes. The eggs cook gently in the sauce, adding richness to the meal. It’s a protein-packed, vegetarian-friendly option that’s both simple and satisfying. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Get the Recipe: Borlotti Beans In Tomato Sauce With Eggs

Hungarian Mushroom Soup

A bowl of creamy mushroom soup, a perfect choice for simple dinners, is garnished with chopped herbs and ground pepper. A spoon rests in the bowl, and the rich, speckled appearance invites you to savor each bite. The bowl sits elegantly on a light-colored surface.
Hungarian Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This creamy mushroom soup features paprika, dill, and sour cream for a comforting meal, ready in 45 minutes. The mushrooms give it a deep, earthy flavor, while the paprika adds a subtle smokiness. It’s rich, hearty, and perfect for a cold evening. Pair it with crusty bread for a cozy dinner.
Get the Recipe: Hungarian Mushroom Soup

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About Ksenia

Welcome to At The Immigrant's Table! I blend my immigrant roots with modern diets, crafting recipes that take you on a global kitchen adventure. As a food blogger and photographer, I'm dedicated to making international cuisine both healthy and accessible. Let's embark on a culinary journey that bridges cultures and introduces a world of flavors right into your home. Read more...

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