17 Fast Recipes for When You’re Out of Dinner Ideas and Time

When time is short and dinner ideas are even shorter, the last thing anyone needs is a complicated recipe. These 17 meals keep things simple while still making sure dinner doesn’t feel like an afterthought. No endless steps, no fancy techniques—just food that gets made and eaten without a second thought. If getting dinner on the table fast is the priority, these recipes deliver.

Golden fried chicken pieces with a side of dipping sauce. — Chick-fil-A Nuggets. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Meatball Sliders

Close-up of a cheesy meatball slider with a seasoned bun, showing melted cheese and tomato sauce. Other sliders are visible in the background. — Meatball Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Hosting a casual gathering? Meatball Sliders are your go-to. They’re convenient to eat with your hands, making them perfect for social occasions where comfort matters. Packed with flavor, they can transform a typical evening into something more fun and relaxed. They come together quickly, letting you spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your guests.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Sliders

25 Minute Black Bean Burger

A black bean burger in a burger bap with relish oozing out over it. — 25 Minute Black Bean Burger. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For those evenings when you want a hearty meal without the meat, a 25 Minute Black Bean Burger does the trick. Its rich, filling nature satisfies hunger effectively, making it a favorite for both vegetarians and meat-eaters. Easy to prepare, it fits well into a tight schedule. Serve it up with simple sides for a complete meal. This dish is a reliable pick for a last-minute dinner plan.
Get the Recipe: 25 Minute Black Bean Burger

Beef Tacos

Taco night just got easier! Beef Tacos assemble in minutes and allow everyone to customize their plate. They’re not only a crowd-pleaser but also a brilliant option for a quick family dinner. Gather your favorite toppings, and let everyone build their own perfect taco. It’s a fun and straightforward way to wrap up a busy day.
Get the Recipe: Beef Tacos

Easy Bibimbap

A bowl of bibimbap with sliced beef, egg yolk, carrots, cucumber, greens, and bean sprouts, topped with sesame seeds and red sauce. — Easy Bibimbap. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Craving something different? Easy Bibimbap brings a touch of Korean cuisine to your table without complexity. This dish combines various textures and flavors, creating a harmonious meal in one bowl. It’s straightforward to put together, appealing to those who appreciate a colorful and nutritious dinner. It’s perfect for a night when you desire something out of the ordinary yet simple.
Get the Recipe: Easy Bibimbap

Cheeseburger Sliders

Close-up of a partially eaten burger with cheese in a bun, showing the meat patty's texture. — Cheeseburger Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cheeseburger Sliders make your kitchen the next best thing to a local diner. Small yet satisfying, they’re great for both kids and adults. These sliders are a fantastic choice when you want to cook something that’s both uncomplicated and crowd-pleasing. They go from pantry to plate fast, giving you more time to unwind. Ideal for a laid-back movie night or as a quick meal solution.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Sliders

Best Lemon Pasta

A bowl of pasta with lemon slices and parmesan cheese. — Best Lemon Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing, Best Lemon Pasta is your answer. It combines the simplicity of pasta with the bright, clean flavors of lemon. This dish is effortlessly elegant and quick to prepare, perfect for a last-minute dinner party or a simple family meal. It’s a smart option when you need something quick yet flavorful. Light and breezy, it’s a dish that always pleases.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

Chipotle Grilled Chicken

Grilled chicken breast slices served over a bed of greens with lemon wedges on the side. — Chipotle Grilled Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Got a grill? Fire it up for some Chipotle Grilled Chicken. This dish offers a smoky, spicy kick that turns a normal grilled chicken into something extraordinary. It’s quick enough for a weekday but special enough for guests. Plus, it pairs excellently with a variety of sides, making meal planning a breeze. A robust option for those who like a bit of spice.
Get the Recipe: Chipotle Grilled Chicken

Homemade Lasagna

Close-up of a delicious slice of lasagna, showcasing layers of pasta, ground meat, tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and garnished with chopped basil. — Homemade Lasagna. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

There’s something comforting about Homemade Lasagna. It might take a bit more love and care, but it’s absolutely worth it. This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers throughout the week. It’s comforting, hearty, and always a hit at the dinner table. Ideal for a cozy night in, this lasagna never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna

Kimchi Stew

Looking to heat things up? Kimchi Stew offers a spicy, tangy experience that’s surprisingly simple to make. It’s vibrant in both color and flavor, providing a warm, soothing meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings. This stew is great for anyone looking to introduce more Korean flavors into their home cooking. It’s quick, nourishing, and packed with taste.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew

Best Tuna Casserole

Tuna casserole in a white baking dish. — Best Tuna Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Best Tuna Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that comes together in a snap. This comforting classic caters to both children and adults with its creamy, hearty texture. It’s a great option when you need something gratifying that doesn’t demand much time. Serve it hot for a meal that feels like a hug in a dish. Especially ideal for busy weekday dinners.
Get the Recipe: Best Tuna Casserole

Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Close-up of a stir-fry dish with chicken, broccoli, mushrooms, and sesame seeds, coated in a soy-based sauce. — Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Who says quick dishes can’t be healthy? Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is the perfect example of a nutritious meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. It cooks up in no time, making it an excellent choice for a nutritious weeknight dinner. The combination of lean protein and greens is both tasty and wholesome. This stir fry is particularly good when you want something fast and fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Easy Chow Mein

A close-up view of a plate of chow mein stir-fried noodles with vegetables and black sesame seeds, with chopsticks visibly picking up a portion. — Easy Chow Mein. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When the craving for Chinese takeout hits, Easy Chow Mein is a fantastic homemade alternative. It’s quicker than delivery, cheaper, and you can control what goes into it. This noodle dish is versatile, filling, and always a hit with families. It’s the perfect solution for a quick, gratifying meal. Whip it up on a night when time and budget are tight.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chow Mein

Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

A plate with honey chicken tenders, broccoli florets, and mashed potatoes. — Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Kids and adults alike can’t resist Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders. These are a quick, delicious option that beats store-bought any day. They’re perfect for dipping and make a great addition to any meal, or even as a standalone snack. Quick to cook, they are ideal for a no-fuss dinner. Serve these when you need a meal that will please everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

Italian Walnut Sauce Pasta

Ever tried Italian Walnut Sauce Pasta? It’s a unique twist on traditional pasta dishes. The rich texture and nutty flavor offer a gratifying meal that’s not routine. It’s straightforward to whip up, making it suitable for those evenings when you want something a bit different but still easy. This dish is a definite must-try for anyone looking to mix up their pasta game.
Get the Recipe: Italian Walnut Sauce Pasta

Kung Pao Chicken

A close-up of a stir-fry dish featuring pieces of chicken, snap peas, red bell peppers, scallions, and black sesame seeds. — Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Add a little spice to your dinner rotation with Kung Pao Chicken. This dish is a Chinese classic known for its vibrant taste and slight kick. It’s quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for an exciting, hassle-free meal. The harmony of spicy, sweet, and tasty flavors makes it immensely gratifying. It’s the go-to dish when you need something fast with a lot of personalities.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy, golden-brown macaroni and cheese dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping reminiscent of comforting funeral potatoes. A spoon is partially submerged in the cheese sauce. — Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Search no further for the ultimate comfort dish; Mac and Cheese is here to save any day. It’s creamy, it’s cheesy, and it’s everything you could ask for in a comfort meal. It comes together in a flash, making it the perfect choice for when you need a comforting meal without the wait. It’s popular among all ages, ensuring a no-complaints dinner time. Stick to this classic when you’re out of dinner ideas and craving something comforting.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Chick-fil-A Nuggets

Craving fast-food favorites at home? Chick-fil-A Nuggets let you enjoy that beloved taste without the drive-thru. These nuggets are a hit with both kids and adults, making them perfect for family meals. Quick to prepare, they satisfy cravings for something tasty and delicious. Serve them during your next family movie night or as a quick snack to brighten everyone’s day.
Get the Recipe: Chick-fil-A Nuggets