Home » Recipe Index » Trending

17 Easy Dinners for When You’re Too Tired to Think About Cooking

Jump to Recipe Add Us as a Preferred Source

Some nights, cooking feels harder than running a marathon in flip-flops. These dinners take the stress out of mealtime, with easy steps and no need for endless prep. They’re the answer to avoiding yet another sad bowl of cereal for dinner. Why overthink when you can get it done this easily?

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See my Affiliate Disclosure.

A bowl of saucy noodles is being lifted with chopsticks over a marble countertop. A carrot is partially visible in the background.
Kimchi Fried Noodles. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

Udon Noodles with Thai Green Curry

A bowl of green curry noodles topped with shredded chicken, lime slices, red chili slices, and fresh cilantro. Chopsticks are lifting a portion of the noodles from the bowl. A soft background showcases another bowl and fresh herbs.
Udon Noodles with Thai Green Curry. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

When you're beat and cooking is the last thing on your mind, a quick fix like Udon Noodles with Thai Green Curry can be a lifesaver. It’s easy to throw together and still feels like a treat. You won't spend hours in the kitchen, yet you’ll end up with something really good. It’s a smart choice for those days when you need a break.
Get the Recipe: Udon Noodles with Thai Green Curry

Hoisin Beef

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

For a night when you want something fast but satisfying, Hoisin Beef hits just the right spot. It’s got all you need for a complete meal without the hassle. The flavors are rich and comforting, perfect for unwinding after a long day. Honestly, it’s a shortcut to a great dinner without all the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Hoisin Beef

Spicy Dan Dan Noodles with Ground Pork

A fork lifts a tantalizing forkful of noodles mixed with sausage and vegetables from a black skillet. The dish appears to be creamy and richly seasoned, reminiscent of dan dan noodles, with visible bits of meat and greens intertwined with the noodles.
Spicy Dan Dan Noodles with Ground Pork. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

When you're craving something with a bit of a kick, Spicy Dan Dan Noodles with Ground Pork delivers without much effort on your part. It’s the kind of meal that wakes up your taste without being too much work. You’ll be surprised at how quickly it comes together. And trust me, it’s the perfect antidote to a dull day.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Dan Dan Noodles with Ground Pork

Pizza Carbonara

A close-up of a pizza slice topped with a runny egg yolk, grated cheese, bacon bits, and black pepper.
Pizza Carbonara. Photo credit: Eggs All Ways.

On days when you can barely think about cooking, Pizza Carbonara offers a twist on the familiar favorite without complicating things. It's straightforward, requires minimal prep, and still feels like a treat. You get to relax while it cooks and then enjoy a slice of heaven. It’s seriously a no-brainer for a chill night.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Carbonara

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 food lovers, when you're too tired to put in the effort but still want something that packs a punch, Camarones a la Diabla is your go-to. It’s quick, it’s fiery, and it won’t let you down. Plus, it’s a refreshing change from your everyday meals. So, why not spice things up without the hassle?
Get the Recipe: Camarones a la Diabla

Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Beef bulgogi in a bowl with rice and cucumbers.
Beef Bulgogi Bowls. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For a meal that’s both comforting and simple, you can’t go wrong with Beef Bulgogi Bowls. They come together quickly, offering a delicious solution to the question of what to eat. This is your pick for getting something good on the table, fast, and without a mess. It’s basically hassle-free cooking at its best.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bulgogi Bowls

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.

If you’re in the mood for seafood but not the effort, Camarones al Mojo de Ajo has got you covered. It’s a straightforward dish that brings big flavor without the big effort. After a long day, it’s just the kind of meal that feels like a treat. It proves that simple can still be really good.
Get the Recipe: Camarones al Mojo de Ajo

Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Creamy Tuscan chicken in a skillet.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

For those evenings when you just can't deal but still want something nice, Creamy Tuscan Chicken is a lifesaver. It’s as easy as it gets and downright delicious. Plus, it comes together faster than you’d think. It’s the ultimate pick-me-up meal for a lazy day.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Scallion Noodles

A close-up of a pan filled with stir-fried noodles. A pair of chopsticks is lifting a portion of the noodles, which are mixed with small pieces of meat and green vegetables. The dish appears appetizing and is set on a woven mat.
Scallion Noodles. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

Want to save this recipe?

✨ We'll send it straight to your inbox! ✨

Sometimes, all you need is something straightforward and comforting, like Scallion Noodles. They’re the epitome of easy cooking, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. Yet, they're surprisingly good and just what you need on a laid-back evening. Trust me, it’s a simple pleasure that you won’t regret opting for.
Get the Recipe: Scallion Noodles

Mongolian Chicken

Two bowls of chicken curry with spices and rice.
Mongolian Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When you're looking for something a little different but still easy, Mongolian Chicken has you covered. It’s not your everyday meal, yet it’s as simple to put together as it is scrumptious. This dish is a nice way to break the routine without breaking a sweat. It’s a straightforward route to a satisfying dinner.
Get the Recipe: Mongolian Chicken

Korean Black Bean Noodles

A close-up of a pan filled with savory noodles and chunks of meat being lifted by chopsticks. The dish appears well-seasoned with sauce, and green garnishes are sprinkled on top. A beige napkin and a piece of dumpling are in the background.
Korean Black Bean Noodles. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

Craving something hearty without the hassle? Korean Black Bean Noodles might just be what you're looking for. It’s one of those meals that’s comforting, easy, and utterly good. It’s a straightforward dish that offers a break from the usual with minimal effort required.
Get the Recipe: Korean Black Bean Noodles

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.

For a soul-soothing meal that speaks comfort without needing you to slave away, Tom Kha Gai is the answer. It whips up quick, tastes really good, and feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s the kind of meal you’ll want after a long, tiring day. And honestly, it’s effortlessly impressive.
Get the Recipe: Tom Kha Gai

Gochujang Noodles with Bacon and Eggs

A person uses chopsticks to lift a portion of Gochujang noodles with crispy bacon and two sunny-side-up eggs from a skillet.
Gochujang Noodles with Bacon and Eggs. Photo credit: Eggs All Ways.

If you need something easy yet crave something with a bit of edge, Gochujang Noodles with Bacon and Eggs are a perfect pick. It’s as simple as breakfast for dinner but with a twist. You’ll love how it’s both uncomplicated and unconventional. Plus, it’s ready before you know it, making your evening a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Noodles with Bacon and Eggs

Air Fryer Chicken Enchiladas

A close-up of a cheesy enchilada garnished with diced tomato and chopped green onions, served on a white plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Enchiladas. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When you think cooking is a chore, Air Fryer Chicken Enchiladas come to the rescue. This dish shows how handy your air fryer really is, making dinner a quick affair. It’s perfect for those nights when you're too beat to do much but still want a home-cooked meal. Honestly, it’s a game changer for easy dinners.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Enchiladas

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.

For a quick, refreshing dinner, Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Crema are just the ticket. They’re surprisingly simple to whip up and are bursting with good stuff. You get a meal that feels special without all the work. It’s the kind of easy-going dinner that makes any evening better.
Get the Recipe: Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Crema

Kimchi Fried Noodles

A bowl of saucy noodles is being lifted with chopsticks over a marble countertop. A carrot is partially visible in the background.
Kimchi Fried Noodles. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

When you're in need of comfort food but don't want to put in too much effort, Kimchi Fried Noodles are a reliable choice. They bring warmth, comfort, and a bit of kick to your dinner table with minimal fuss. It’s the kind of meal that’s both easy and rewarding. Perfect for those lazy, don’t-want-to-cook nights.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Fried Noodles

Chicken Egg Foo Young

Chicken egg foo young on top of rice on a white plate.
Chicken Egg Foo Young. Photo credit: Eggs All Ways.

For an easy, no-fuss dinner, Chicken Egg Foo Young is unexpectedly fitting. It’s simpler than you think to make and ends up being really delicious. This dish is a solid choice when you want something good but can’t deal with complicated. It’s straight-up comforting food without the work.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Egg Foo Young

By on December 10th, 2024
Photo of Robin Donovan

About Robin Donovan

Robin Donovan is the creative force behind All Ways Delicious. She’s an Associated Press syndicated food and travel writer and the bestselling author of more than 40 cookbooks, including Ramen for Beginners, Ramen Obsession, and Campfire Cuisine. Her work has been featured in major publications including Chicago Sun-Times, Huffington Post, MSN, Seattle Post-Intelligencer, Seattle Times, Food & Wine, Cooking Light, PopSugar, Fitness, Mercury News, and many others. More about Robin

More Posts by this author.

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

SEEN ON

as seen on promo graphic

SEEN ON

as seen on promo graphic