Dinner Ideas

Coming up with new dinner ideas can feel like one more thing to do at the end of a busy day. But you can switch things up by mixing in a new recipe with some old favorites. That's where we come in. I am sharing some of our favorite dinner recipes in a variety of categories.

Whether you are looking for a pasta dish, casserole, slow cooker, or Instant Pot dinner, it's all here! Hopefully some of these meals will become new family favorites and keep you from dreading the "what's for dinner" question.

Dinner Casseroles

I love the comfort and convenience of dinner casseroles. Casseroles are incredibly versatile, and you can make one to cater to everyone's tastes. Whether it’s a veggie lasagna, a tater tot casserole, or a classic chicken and rice dish, there’s one out there for everyone.

It’s no wonder casseroles have become a go-to for busy moms looking to get a hearty and yummy meal to the table with minimal fuss.

Pasta Recipes

Pasta is a popular choice for dinner, and with good reason. It cooks up quickly and can be used in a variety of cuisines. Whether you're in the mood for a light, veggie-packed dish or something rich and creamy, you can find a pasta dish that will satisfy you.

From spaghetti nights that inspire the whole family to get together to gooey, cheesy dishes, pasta makes dinner time a whole lot easier.

Ground Beef Dinner Ideas

When it comes to dinner ideas, ground beef is a protein-filled and delicious ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. You can make meatballs or burgers, or mix things up with tacos and chili.

With ground beef as your main ingredient, the options are endless and sure to satisfy any appetite. Get creative in the kitchen with some of these tasty ground beef dinner ideas!

Chicken Dinner Ideas

Chicken is one of the most popular dinner ingredients. It is easy to prepare and can be included in many different recipes. Plus, it's pretty affordable compared to other forms of protein, which makes it perfect for budget-friendly meals.

There are endless ways to season and prepare chicken, so you'll never get bored with your dinner options.

teriyaki chicken casserole on plate and in pan

Instant Pot Dinner Ideas

The Instant Pot makes dinner prep so much easier and faster. It is a huge time saver that helps you whip up a delicious meal in no time and have minimal clean-up afterward.

Plus, who doesn't love a one-pot meal? The pressure cooker is perfect for those lazy nights when you just can't be bothered to cook but still want a homemade meal.

Crockpot Dinner Ideas

Crockpot dinners are a game changer when it comes to cooking. They are super easy to make, and the results are always delicious. Plus, crockpots are perfect for busy days when you don't have time to make a complicated meal.

Slow-cooker meals are simple, convenient, and satisfying. So, if you haven't jumped on the crock pot bandwagon yet, what are you waiting for?

Fun Dinner Ideas for Kids

Almost all of the dinner ideas presented here are kid-friendly. But let's face it: Kids can be picky, and sometimes, even when you make something delicious, they will turn up their noses.

But there are some fun and whimsical dinner recipes that kids can't resist. They are especially open to trying new food if they help prepare it themselves, so include them in the process of cooking!

Best Tools For Home Cooks

You will need some important tools to get dinner on the table fast. The right kitchen gadgets can significantly reduce prep time and make cooking more enjoyable.

A good knife set is crucial for chopping, slicing, and dicing. Pair those with cutting boards to protect surfaces and prevent the spread of bacteria. A non-stick skillet and a slow cooker are also items you will use all the time.

If you don't have any of these tools, you can find them on Amazon so you are ready to tackle any recipe that comes your way.

Spice by Tia Mowry Savory Saffron 14 Piece Cutlery Knife Block Set - Aqua Blue Amazon Basics Color-Coded Kitchen 12-Piece Knife Set, 6 Knives with 6 Blade Guards, Multicolor, 13.88 x 4.13 x 1.38 inch Farberware Plastic Cutting Board with Aqua Nonslip Edges and Stylish Marble Pattern-Dishwasher Kitchen Essential for Everyday Use-Durable Poly Material, Food-Safe, Easy to Clean, 11x14-Inch GreenLife Soft Grip Healthy Ceramic Nonstick, 7 BETTERBEAUTY Cookie Sheets for Baking, Nonstick Oven Pan Set of 3 with Wide Edge, Half/Jelly Roll/Quarter Baking Tray, Dishwasher Safe Easy Clean for Kitchen Oven Pan Bakeware Set Hacaroa Set of 3 Ceramic Baking Dishes, Rectangular Bakeware with Handles, Elegant Casserole Dish Set Lasagna Pan for Baking, Cooking, Cake Dinner, Banquet, Lake Blue, 3 Sizes