Back to school time is here! That means busy mornings and even busier nights; from driving to soccer practice to helping out with homework time, parents are crunched for time when it comes to weeknight dinners. Instead of opting for a lackluster meal from the drive-thru, try one of these quick (and delicious!) options for your next family dinner!
STUFFED PEPPERS
Photo Credit: Pinterest
For a super easy weeknight dinner, try stuffed bell peppers! The best thing about these delicious peppers is that you can change up the filling in a ton of different ways. From quinoa and pesto chicken or Italian-style beef and tomato sauce to vegetarian southwestern rice, stuffed peppers are go-to crowd-pleasers. In less than 45 minutes, you can have a warm meal that your family is sure to love.
CROCKPOT CHILI
(Photo Credit: Cooking Classy)
Okay, so 6 hours is definitely not quick, but using a slow cooker definitely cuts down on your involvement time. Prep your ingredients the night before (only about 15 minutes!) and pop them into the crockpot in the morning, let it simmer until dinnertime, and serve! This chili recipe is one of the best, and it even makes for great leftovers for those super busy nights.
GOURMET GRILLED CHEESE
(Photo Credit: BS’ in the Kitchen)
Spice up an old classic with some fresh veggies and herbs. Whether you prefer tomato, arugula, and prosciutto, a French onion inspired melt, or even something a little sweeter like this yummy blackberry basil combination, a gooey grilled cheese is the perfect quick meal.
ONE PAN PASTA
(Photo Credit: Martha Stewart)
Take a tip from household genius Martha Stewart and cook your pasta favorites in only 9 minutes, and with only one pot! The trick is to use a shallow pan rather than a large pot so there is less water and more even cooking.
SO CAL SHRIMP TACOS
(Photo Credit: Heather Christo)
This chipotle shrimp recipe is amazing! Simple, delicious, and it only takes about 30 minutes.
SOUTHWESTERN SUPERFOOD SALAD
(Photo Credit: The Glowing Fridge)
Craving something a little lighter? This kale and quinoa salad is a perfect option for a healthy dinner without all the fuss. The quinoa, a high-protein multigrain, will fill you up without weighing you down!
CHICKEN STIR FRY
(Photo Credit: Kraft Recipes)
Using frozen veggies and instant rice makes this stir-fry recipe super simple. Swap out the white rice for brown rice or quinoa for a healthier take!
MISO GLAZED SALMON
(Photo Credit: BBC Good Food)
According to the American Heart Association, you should be getting at least two servings of fish each week. And for those who find fish a little intimidating for a weeknight meal like us, this salmon recipe is quick, easy, and full of flavor!
CREAMY MAC & CHEESE
(Photo Credit: The Kitchn)
What better comfort food is there than a creamy, decadent macaroni and cheese? This classic recipe is quick (no more wasting time on a roux!), delicious, and perfect for those chilly fall nights.
SIMPLE SEARED STEAK
(Photo Credit: Real Simple)
This mouthwatering recipe for strip steak and cauliflower puree (yum!) is a modern take on the traditional meat and potatoes. We know how tough it can be to get kids to eat their veggies, so serving pureed cauliflower instead of mashed potatoes is a sneaky way to get them to try something new!