Last week I wrote a big blog post about my favorite cookbooks that I use for dinner inspiration — especially when I’m in a dinner-planning rut. I heard from so many readers that they were often in a similar spot, uninspired and stumped about what to make for dinner. More than that, everyone seems to be looking for ideas that quick and easy because dinner time can be downright hectic (we have our fair share of toddler meltdowns right before dinnertime too!). I decided to dig into my recipe archives this week and pull out over 20 of my tried-and-true dinner ideas that I lean on when I need to get something tasty on the table after work. I hope this list helps make planning dinner a little bit easier this week! Meal Prep Dinners. I usually pick one of these recipes, or something similar from my favorite food websites, to make in a big batch on Sunday night. We eat one portion for dinner and then pack up the rest in our favorite glass containers to have lunches prepped for the week. It’s one big meal that gives us tons of food to pick away at for days — a win in my book! (PS: Read my post about meal planning).

Spicy Chicken Thigh Rice Bowls | Roasted Red Pepper Chicken | Honey Mustard Chicken and Wild Rice | Lime Peanut Turkey Meatballs

Comfort Food. Sometimes, the best dinner solution is some hearty comfort food — especially as the weather starts to get cooler in the fall! These are some of my classic recipes and new favorites that give me that warm happy feeling when I dig into them. I make that chili at least once every other week once fall arrives!

Classic Chili | Roasted Butternut Squash and Apple Soup | Crispy Panko Brussels Sprout Pasta | Prosciutto and Asparagus Bucatini | Classic Mac and Cheese

Big Batch – Great for Leftovers. We have just two adults and one toddler in our house, so sometimes I like to make a larger casserole-style dinner that I know will last us for two dinners if we have a busy week ahead. All of these dishes make enough for us to have leftovers to reheat and eat for a second night!

Mexican Lasagna | Loaded Lasagna Rolatinis | Sausage and Cauliflower Stuffed Peppers | Chicken Marsala Pasta Bake

Quick Prep. I keep these recipes — bunless burgers, tacos, pasta, and one-pan meals — in my back-pocket for weeks when I know I’m going to be busy with work. All of these are quick to prep and get on the table fast!

Buffalo-BBQ Turkey BurgersOne Pan Roasted Shrimp and Veggies | Black Bean, Chorizo and Crispy Potato Tacos | Ricotta, Pea and Parmesan Pasta

Healthy(ish). I will never claim to be an expert in healthy-eating, it’s not one of my strong suits. I do attempt to tie some healthy(ish) recipes into my weekly plan in an effort to prevent me from eating mac and cheese 7-days/week. These are a few of my favorites I keep in rotation that have a healthy-spin.

Sesame Ginger Chicken and Broccoli Slaw | Lemon Dijon Grilled Salmon | Garlic Basil Shrimp Skewers | Soy Ginger Pork TenderloinSaveSave

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