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The Lazy Cook’s Guide to 19 Mouthwatering Dinners

Ever find yourself stuck in a rut, making the same few meals over and over? Well, here’s a collection of dinner recipes that’s all about keeping things simple yet delicious. Each of the 19 meals is designed for people who’d rather not spend their whole evening in the kitchen. It’s a great way to shake things up without shaking too much effort into it.

A close-up of twirled dan dan noodles on a fork with herbs and bits of meat.

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Dan Dan Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Camarones al Mojo de Ajo

Shrimp stuffed into soft corn tortillas with lime wedges on the side.
Camarones al Mojo de Ajo. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Get ready for a dinner that’s as easy as it is quick. Garlic lovers will especially enjoy this meal, where bold flavors meet simplicity. Add in some light rice or a fresh salad to round it off. Shrimp cooked in this style makes for a perfect lazy evening meal.
Get the Recipe: Camarones al Mojo de Ajo

Beef Birria

low angle shot of shredded beef in a bowl with a fork.
Beef Birria. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

This dish brings a rich blend of spices to your table without all the fuss. Serve it on a cold day to warm up your house and your stomach. Pair with warm tortillas or a simple rice dish. Indulge in the flavors of this slow-cooked meal, perfect for lazy cooks who love deep, intricate tastes.
Get the Recipe: Beef Birria

Camarones a la Diabla

Shrimp in red chile sauce on a white plate with lime wedges and a fork in the background.
Camarones a la Diabla. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Spicy and quick, this dish is the busy cook’s best friend. You can whip it up in no time, ensuring a flavorful meal on hectic days. It’s great when served over a bed of steamed rice or with a side of tortillas. Enjoy the fiery taste of shrimp cooked with bold spices.
Get the Recipe: Camarones a la Diabla

Quesabirria Tacos

Overhead shot of quesabirria tacos with lime wedges.
Quesabirria Tacos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

This meal is a great twist on a traditional taco, mixing cheese and tender, spiced meat in a crispy tortilla. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a heartfelt meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Combine it with a cold beverage for a complete meal. Relish in this delight while lounging at home.
Get the Recipe: Quesabirria Tacos

Air Fryer Enchiladas

A hand holding a n empanada that is broken open so you can see the inside filling.
Air Fryer Enchiladas. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Let your air fryer do the work with this easy dish. Experience the comfort of melted cheese and warm tortillas without the hassle. It’s ideal for a quick dinner. These enchiladas are perfect for those seeking comfort food with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Enchiladas

Hoisin Beef

A white bowl with rice and hoisin ground beef and chopsticks on the side.
Hoisin Beef. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

An Asian-inspired meal that’s both quick and packed with flavor, ideal for a lazy night in. It pairs wonderfully with steamed greens or jasmine rice. Enjoy the rich sauce that coats the tender beef. This dish promises to impress without the stress of complex cooking.
Get the Recipe: Hoisin Beef

Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Crema

Fish tacos with shredded cabbage and cilantro lime crema.
Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Crema. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Fresh and zesty, these fish tacos bring a splash of freshness to your dinner routine. The cilantro lime crema adds a creamy, tangy twist that enhances the overall experience. They’re perfect for a light, quick meal. Transform a simple evening into a flavorful dining experience.
Get the Recipe: Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Crema

Spicy Miso Ramen

A bowl of ramen with karaage chicken.
Spicy Miso Ramen. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Jump into a bowl of warmth with this easy-to-make dish. It’s perfect for those chilly evenings when you need a comforting meal. The spiciness is just right, warming up your taste experience. Enjoy it on nights when you want something soothing yet exciting.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Miso Ramen

Tom Kha Gai

A bowl of soup garnished with cilantro, lime, and chili slices, with a person taking a spoonful.
Tom Kha Gai. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Experience the soothing flavors of this popular soup without much effort. It’s creamy, slightly spicy, and full of aromatic herbs. Perfect for a light meal or starter. This dish is a fuss-free route to a flavorful evening.
Get the Recipe: Tom Kha Gai

Stir-Fried Hokkien Noodles

Stir-fried noodles with shrimp and beef in a pan with chopsticks.
Stir-Fried Hokkien Noodles. Photo credit: Eggs All Ways.

If you’re craving something Asian but simple, try this. It’s quick and adaptable to what veggies you have on hand. Pair it with a protein of your choice for a fuller meal. These noodles provide a satisfying dinner with little to do.
Get the Recipe: Stir-Fried Hokkien Noodles

Blackened Fish Tacos

Blackened fish tacos in taco holders.
Blackened Fish Tacos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Dinner in minutes is a reality with these tacos, featuring a bold seasoning that will perk up your mealtime. Serve with a fresh slaw for a crunchy, cooling contrast. They’re an effortless way to spice up dinner. These tacos offer a simple way to bring bold tastes to your dining table.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Fish Tacos

Miso Glazed Salmon

Miso glazed salmon on a plate with rice and spinach.
Miso Glazed Salmon. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Prep and cook your salmon in a snap with this often-overlooked method. The miso glaze brings a depth of flavor that is hard to beat. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or rice. This dish is an easy route to a restaurant-quality dinner at home.
Get the Recipe: Miso Glazed Salmon

Cajun Shrimp and Grits

A bowl of grits topped with cajun shrimp.
Cajun Shrimp and Grits. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Indulge in the Southern charm of this easy recipe, where spicy shrimp meets creamy grits. It’s perfect for a quick comforting meal. With minimal prep, dinner can be served in no time. Enjoy the robust flavors of this classic dish with little effort.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Shrimp and Grits

Air Fryer Fish Tacos

Fish tacos on a small baking sheet with limes.
Air Fryer Fish Tacos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Utilize your air fryer for a healthy twist on traditional fish tacos. This version cuts down on oil without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, they’re effortless and delightful. Dive into these when you crave a lighter dinner that’s still packed with taste.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Fish Tacos

Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings

Basket of fried chicken with chilies and garlic.
Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Enjoy these with hardly any preparation. They’re crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and just the right amount of seasoning. Perfect for snacking or a casual meal. These chicken wings are a sure hit for those lazy cooking days.
Get the Recipe: Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings

Lamb Kofta Kebabs

Lamb kofta kebabs on a wooden board with  fresh herbs and vegetables.
Lamb Kofta Kebabs. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Bring some Middle Eastern flavors to your table with minimal effort. These kebabs are juicy and packed with flavor. Serve with flatbread or a cucumber salad for a complete meal. They’re a straightforward feast, great for any lazy cook’s repertoire.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Kofta Kebabs

Thai Fried Rice

Overhead shot of Thai fried rice in a white bowl with a skillet of fried rice on the side.
Thai Fried Rice. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Dash some Thai flavor into your dinner with this one-pan wonder. It’s the perfect way to use up leftover rice and vegetables. Quick to prepare, and even quicker to disappear from your plate. This fried rice is a simple answer to your weeknight dinner puzzle.
Get the Recipe: Thai Fried Rice

Dan Dan Noodles

A close-up of twirled dan dan noodles on a fork with herbs and bits of meat.
Dan Dan Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

This dish is ideal for when you crave something with a bit of a kick. It’s easy, quick, and satisfying, filled with bold flavors that come together in minutes. Pair with crunchy vegetables for a balanced meal. It’s a straightforward way to spice up your dinner times.
Get the Recipe: Dan Dan Noodles

Pork Fried Rice

Pork fried rice in a blue and white striped bowl.
Pork Fried Rice. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Turn leftover rice into a tasty meal with this easy dish. It’s a quick way to satisfy hunger without a lot of cooking gear. Great on its own or as a side to other dishes. This fried rice is perfect for lazy evening meals or when you need a quick dinner solution.
Get the Recipe: Pork Fried Rice

By on May 24th, 2024
Photo of Robin Donovan

About Robin Donovan

Robin Donovan is the creative force behind All Ways Delicious. She's a writer, recipe developer, photographer, and cookbook author with more than 40 books to her name, including the bestselling Ramen for Beginners, Ramen Obsession, and Campfire Cuisine. Her work has been featured in major publications, both print and digital, including MSN, Cooking Light, Fitness, Buzzfeed, and Eating Well. More about Robin

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