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    Home » Food & Drink

    Published: Jun, 2024. Updated: Jun, 2024 by Iryna Bychkiv | This post may contain affiliate links. Read more here

    38 Delicious Weeknight Dinners to Brighten Your Mondays (and All Other Days)

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    These 38 delicious weeknight dinners are easy to make and will surely brighten your days, not just Mondays. From quick and easy meals to tasty new recipes, these dinners are sure to make your weeknights special.

    Each dinner is designed to be simple, yet flavorful, making your weeknight cooking stress-free. With a variety of dishes ranging from hearty pastas to comforting soups, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

    Creamy Mushroom Stroganoff

    Mushroom Stroganoff over mashed potatoes in a white bowl.
    Photo credit: Lavender & Macarons

    This creamy and one-pot Mushroom Stroganoff is as easy to make as it is delicious to eat. It’s the ultimate comfort dish that gets along nicely with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta. What’s even better? It’s easy to make with everyday ingredients. Get the recipe.

    Sheet Pan Greek Chicken and Vegetables

    Sheet pan Greek chicken and vegetables on a white plate with a blue rim and a grey napkin on the side.
    Photo credit: Lavender & Macarons

    This Sheet Pan Greek Chicken and Vegetables recipe is the perfect example of delicious flavors and easy cooking. The best part? It's a one-pan wonder, delivering tender, juicy chicken and perfectly crisp veggies with minimal cleanup. Get the recipe.

    Easy Mussels Pasta with Garlic and Fennel

    Shelled Mussels pasta in a stainless steel pan.
    Photo credit: Lavender & Macarons

    This Mussels Pasta with Garlic and Fennel is a culinary trip to Tuscany. This is a recipe that tastes and looks like a luxury but comes together simply and in less than half an hour. It's the best mussels recipe for busy weeknights when you need a quick meal but still want a deliciously inspired one. Get the recipe.

    Sheet Pan Kielbasa and Veggies

    Sheet Pan Kielbasa and Veggies close up.
    Photo credit: Lavender & Macarons

    This Sheet Pan Kielbasa and Veggies is a quick and fuss-free dinner recipe for busy weeknights. Just dump all of the ingredients on a cooking tray and bake. This recipe can be made with regular sausages and any vegetables you have in your fridge. Get the recipe.

    Moroccan Slow Cooker Bean Stew

    Moroccan bean Stew in a gret bowl with a spoon.
    Photo credit: Lavender & Macarons

    This Moroccan Slow Cooker Bean Stew, also called Loubia is the ultimate comfort food full of flavor. Made with Cannellini Beans, tomatoes and spices, these slow cooker white beans recipe are sure to warm you up on a chilly fall or winter night. Get the recipe.

    French Mustard Chicken

    Chicken in a mustard sauce with bread dipped in a sauce.
    Photo credit: Lavender & Macarons

    This French Mustard Chicken is an absolutely delicious recipe. Perfectly roasted fall-off-the-bone chicken swimming in a creamy and flavorful mustard sauce. Is there anything better? Satisfaction is guaranteed. Get the recipe.

    Award-Winning Chili Recipe

    Award Winning Chili with a toast aside in a bowl.
    Photo credit: Lavender & Macarons

    This is fantastic, award-winning chili recipe, which includes a mixture of spices, flavorful meat, and rich, satisfying sauce. This dish is sure to please whether you're a chili expert or just looking to try something different. Get the recipe.

    Eggplant Potato Stew 

    Vegetable stew in a cast iron skillet.
    Photo credit: Lavender & Macarons

    This thick and hearty Potato Stew recipe features tender potatoes, delicious aromatics, and also some chewy eggplants for a wholesome dinner meal. It's incredibly easy to make and can be ready in just under an hour. Get the recipe.

    Stovetop Grilled Vegetable Panini

    Stovetop Grilled Vegetable Panini close up.
    Photo credit: Lavender & Macarons

    Loaded with flavorful Grilled Veggies, melty Mozzarella and smothered in grilled pepper tapenade, these easy Stovetop Grilled Vegetable Panini don't require panini maker. You can make them with just a grill pan and one easy trick. Get the recipe.

    Instant Pot Shrimp Alfredo

    Instant Pot Shrimp Alfredo in a bowl.
    Photo credit: Corrie Cooks

    Is there anything more compelling than a big, delicious bowl of pasta? I’ve got one - how about a delicious bowl of pasta that’s prepared in just one pot and takes less than 10 minutes? Get the recipe.

    Old Fashioned Chicken Soup

    Old Fashioned Chicken Soup in a bowl.
    Photo credit: Dishes Delish

    There is something so comforting to a recipe of old fashioned chicken soup. Made on the stove, the smell of this chicken soup cooking will transport you back to your childhood. There is an abundance of veggies and chicken in this soup that will soothe you whether you have a cold or not. Get the recipe.

    Easy Penne Pomodoro

    Penne Pomodoro Pasta in a bowl.
    Photo credit: Lavender & Macarons

    This Penne Pomodoro is a classic Italian pasta dish featuring a delicious, flavor-packed red tomato sauce with hints of basil and garlic. This easy pasta recipe is quick and easy to make, and you can have it ready at the dinner table in under 30 minutes! Get the recipe.

    French Parmesan Soup 

    Parmesan soup with bacon and croutons in a bowl.
    Photo credit: Lavender & Macarons

    I won't lie when I tell you that French Parmesan Soup will knock your socks off. Intense Parmesan flavor, unforgettable taste, crispy bacon and garlicky croutons make this silky soup an ultimate comfort food for a cold weather. Your family will love it! Get the recipe.

    Mushroom Lasagna with Spinach

    Creamy Kale and Mushroom Lasagna in a baking dish.
    Photo credit: Lavender & Macarons

    This amazing Mushroom Lasagna With Spinach is so delicious and flavorful. No need for tofu or legumes. With 21 grams of Protein per serving, this easy vegan lasagna recipe makes a hearty and healthy dinner recipe approved by meat-eaters and picky kids. Get the recipe.

    Hearty Vegetable Curry

    Vegetable curry with Brussels sprouts and chickpeas on a bed of rice.
    Photo credit: Lavender & Macarons

    This easy Vegetable Curry Recipe with chickpeas and coconut milk is perfect for cleaning out the fridge. Use any vegetables you have, add some aromatic spices and coconut milk, and boom, you have a fantastic and healthy plant-based meal perfect for busy days. Get the recipe.

    Spanish Breaded Pork Chops (Libritos)

    Spanish Style Pork Chops close up.
    Photo credit: Lavender & Macarons

    These Spanish Style Pork Chops are comfort food at their best. Crispy on the outside and stuffed with a delicious combo of ham, roasted peppers, and cheese. This recipe is a perfect way to turn regular pork chops into a scrumptious and satisfying dinner. Get the recipe.

    Spicy Silken Tofu Recipe

    Spicy Silken Tofu in a bowl.
    Photo credit: The Fiery Vegetarian

    A bit of chopping and up to ten minutes in the pan is all you need to make this tasty quick spicy silken tofu recipe. Serve hot with steamed rice to soak up the luscious sauce. Get the recipe.

    Hungarian Chicken Paprikash

    Chicken Paprikash in a dutch oven close up.
    Photo credit: Lavender & Macarons

    Hungarian Chicken Paprikash is an easy, one-pan weeknight dinner recipe with a finger-licking good sour cream sauce made of the pantry staples. Get the recipe.

    Sardinian Minestrone

    Minestrone in a bowl.
    Photo credit: Lavender & Macarons

    This hearty old-fashioned Minestrone soup is filled with wholesome ingredients like leeks, beans, and potatoes. It's popular among kids and adults and is sure to fill you up on chilly winter days. Be sure to add some crusty bread to round out the meal. Get the recipe.

    Easy Baked Meatballs with Gruyere Fondue

    Baked Meatballs with Gruyere Fondue in a pan with a spoon.
    Photo credit: Lavender & Macarons

    These Easy Baked Meatballs with Gruyere Fondue are a true winter comfort food. They are loaded with comforting flavors and are perfect for delicious weeknight meal for the whole family. Get the recipe.

    Warm Potato Salad with Bacon + Long Hots

    Warm Potato Salad with Bacon + Long Hots in a bowl close up.
    Photo credit: Coley Cooks

    This Warm Potato Salad with Bacon + Long Hots is my favorite potato salad recipe ever! It has no mayonnaise and tons of flavor from crispy bacon, spicy long hots, sour cream and chives. Get the recipe.

    Sheet Pan Salmon Oreganata with Vegetables

    Salmon Oreganata on a foil-lined pan.
    Photo credit: Lavender & Macarons

    This Sheet Pan Salmon Oreganata with Green Beans and Potatoes is a quick, healthy, and satisfying dinner. Everyone will love the flaky, crispy coating and zesty flavors; this easy-baked salmon recipe is bound to become a new family favorite. Get the recipe.

    Hearty Polish Sauerkraut Soup

    Polish Sauerkraut soup with some sour cream in a bowl.
    Photo credit: Lavender & Macarons

    If you’re looking for a soup this fall or winter that’s comforting, filling, and slightly tangy, then give this Polish sauerkraut soup a try. Traditionally known as Kapusniak, it’s a tasty combination of tender pork ribs simmered in a rich broth, combined with the tangy sauerkraut and hearty potatoes. Get the recipe.

    4-Ingredient Roasted Pork Tenderloin

    Buzhenina on a foil.
    Photo credit: Lavender & Macarons

    There's so much flavor in this JUICY and flavorful Buzhenina (Herb Roasted Pork Tenderloin). It hardly takes any effort to make and perfect for dinner or holidays. Classic Ukrainian recipe that uses 4 ingredients and never disappoints. Get the recipe.

    Slow Cooker Mushroom Bolognese

    Mushroom bolognese over spaghetti.
    Photo credit: Lavender & Macarons

    This is the best Bolognese made with Portobello mushrooms in the comfort of your slow cooker! The recipe packs a flavor punch and is perfect for meat eaters in your family. They won't be able to tell there's no meat. Get the recipe.

    Spicy Vodka Pasta

    Spicy Vodka Pasta in a blue plate.
    Photo credit: Always Use Butter

    Done in 20 minutes this flavor packed Spicy Vodka Pasta (or Penne alla Vodka) is a delicious tomato cream sauce. Made from common ingredients such as fresh tomatoes, heavy cream, and parsley this is the best vodka pasta recipe you will find. Get the recipe.

    Lentil Pasta 

    Lentil pasta on a plate.
    Photo credit: Lavender & Macarons

    This Lentil Pasta has the perfect combination of hearty and healthy. The rich, flavorful sauce, the texture of the lentils against the soft pasta, and the hint of spice from the red pepper flakes all come together to create a dish that's truly irresistible. The finishing touch of fresh parsley adds a burst of freshness, making every bite a delight. Get the recipe.

    Beef Stew with Vegetables

    Beef Stew with Carrots and Potatoes in a Dutch oven and in a bowl.
    Photo credit: Lavender & Macarons

    This Beef Stew is incredibly easy to make with rich, savory gravy, tender chunks of beef, and a medley of hearty vegetables, and it hits all the right notes of flavor and texture. It’s the perfect fall or winter dish that’s comforting, delicious, and a true family favorite! Get the recipe.

    Spicy Chickpea, Broccoli and Potato Sheet Pan Dinner

    Spicy Chickpea, Broccoli and Potato Sheet Pan Dinner in a bowl.
    Photo credit: Delish Knowledge

    Looking for a healthy sheet pan dinner recipe? Then you’ve gotta try this one! Roasted broccoli, potatoes and chickpeas with a spinach and a spicy harissa sauce on top. Get the recipe.

    Turmeric Salmon and Couscous

    Turmeric salmon and couscous in a pan.
    Photo credit: Seasonal Cravings

    This Turmeric Salmon and Couscous skillet is super easy to make on a weeknight but seasonal and tasty enough for company.  Loaded with good-for-you ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes! Get the recipe.

    Kung Pao Cauliflower

    Kung Pao Cauliflower over rice in an oval plate.
    Photo credit: My Pure Plants

    This delicious Kung Pao cauliflower recipe puts a nutritious twist on the classic Kung Pao chicken. Cauliflower florets are tossed in an aromatic, spicy homemade sauce with crunchy roasted peanuts to create an irresistible sweet, salty, and spicy dish. You may not return to Chinese takeout once you learn to make this recipe! Get the recipe.

    Super Easy Sloppy Joes Recipe

    Sloppy Joe burgers. A close up view.
    Photo credit: Lavender & Macarons

    This super easy sloppy joe recipe requires only 5 ingredients and will be ready in 15 minutes! It’s the perfect weeknight meal for those busy days when you want to whip up something the whole family will love! Get the recipe.

    Dutch Split Pea Soup

    Dutch Split Pea Soup in a scoop and in a pan.
    Photo credit: Lavender & Macarons

    Are you craving comfort food? This Dutch Split Pea Soup is exactly what you need to make when it's cold outside. Loaded with heartwarming flavors of bacon, Polish kielbasa and vegetables, this traditional Dutch soup is a great way for putting your split peas to use. Get the recipe.

    Poulet Yassa - Senegalese Chicken Recipe

    Senegalese Peanut Stew in a bowl.
    Photo credit: Low Carb Africa

    Poulet Yassa is a Senegalese dish made of chicken that has been marinated in a mixture of garlic, lemon juice, dijon mustard, and spices. It has become very popular throughout West Africa and in other parts of the world. Get the recipe.

    Easy Bourbon Chicken Recipe

    Up-close image of Bourbon chicken with rice in a white bowl.
    Photo credit: Lavender & Macarons

    This easy Bourbon Chicken recipe is a classic dish that's ready in under 30 minutes and combines delicious tangy and sweet flavors. With tender, juicy chicken smothered in a savory Bourbon sauce, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves a good, hearty meal. Get the recipe.

    Ricotta Beef Stuffed Pasta Shells

    Ricotta Beef Stuffed Pasta Shells on a plate. A side view.
    Photo credit: xoxo Bella

    Baked ricotta beef stuffed pasta shells are full of ground beef and four different types of cheese. It is a meal the whole family will love! Get the recipe.

    Brown Sugar Pork Chops

    Brown Sugar Pork Chops on a plate.
    Photo credit: Corrie Cooks

    These deliciously easy brown sugar pork chops are a flavorful and versatile dish that everyone will love. Get the recipe.

    Mediterranean Meatball Pita Sandwiches

    Mediterranean Meatball Pita Sandwich close up.
    Photo credit: My Everyday Table

    When you’re looking for an easy, nutritious, and delicious meal, this Mediterranean chicken pita sandwich is it! Get the recipe.

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    Iryna Bychkiv
    Website

    Iryna Bychkiv is the founder and writer of the culinary website Lavender & Macarons, where she shares clean, European-inspired recipes that are delicious, easy to prepare, and made with wholesome ingredients. Iryna loves creating meals that are simple yet healthy and unique, including vegan and vegetarian recipes.
    Iryna is also a freelance writer for MSN and Associated Press Wire.

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