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The Lazy Cook’s Guide To 17 Tasty Dinners

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Feeling lazy but need dinner on the table? This guide is packed with 17 dinner ideas that even the laziest cook can handle. Each meal is designed to be straightforward and delicious, so you can spend more time relaxing. It's time to make dinner simple and enjoyable, and maybe even a little fun along the way.

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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.

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.

If you're a fan of seafood with a bit of a kick, Camarones a la Diabla might just be your next weeknight favorite. It's a quick dish that doesn't skimp on heat or boldness. All it takes are some shrimp, a blend of fiery sauces, and a little bit of time. Before you know it, you'll be sitting down to a meal that packs a punch.
Get the Recipe: Camarones a la Diabla

Creamy Tuscan Chicken

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

For those evenings when you’re craving something rich and comforting, look no further than Creamy Tuscan Chicken. It combines succulent chicken with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach in a creamy sauce that's hard to resist. This dish will have you feeling like you're dining in the heart of Tuscany, all from the comfort of your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Beef Yakisoba

Beef yakisoba noodles with veggies and pickled ginger.
Beef Yakisoba. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Beef Yakisoba is your go-to for a quick and fulfilling noodle fix. With its tangy sauce and tender beef mixed with a heap of vegetables, it's a meal that's fulfilling in every bite. It’s a Japanese-inspired dish that's as fun to make as it is to eat. And the best part? You can whip it up in no time.
Get the Recipe: Beef Yakisoba

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.

Pizza night just got a serious upgrade with Pizza Carbonara. Imagine your favorite creamy pasta turned into a pizza, complete with all the bacon and cheese goodness. It’s a creative twist that combines two beloved dishes into one mouthwatering meal. And yes, it's as good as it sounds.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Carbonara

Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake

A serving spoon serving of creamy spinach chicken bake.
Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake is the answer when you’re out of dinner ideas but still want something homemade. It’s as simple as mixing a few ingredients and letting the oven do most of the work. Juicy chicken, creamy sauce, and spinach make for a meal that’s both hearty and healthy. Plus, it leaves you with minimal dishes to wash.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake

Szechuan Shrimp

Low angle shot of szechuan shrimp in a wok.
Szechuan Shrimp. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

This Szechuan Shrimp brings the heat and flavor in a way that’s hard to beat. With just the right amount of spice to keep things interesting, it's a dish that will surely liven up your dinner routine. It’s quick to cook and loaded with big, bold tastes. A perfect pick for when you want something both fiery and fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Szechuan Shrimp

Chicken Pakora

Low angle shot of chicken pakora on a plate with a green napkin.
Chicken Pakora. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Bring a bit of Indian street food into your home with Chicken Pakora. It's a crunchy, spicy, and utterly addictive way to enjoy chicken. Dipped in a gram flour batter and fried to perfection, these bites are ideal for a snack or a unique meal. Just have your favorite dips ready, and you’re all set.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pakora

Beef Bulgogi Bowls

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

Beef Bulgogi Bowls make for a delicious and easy-to-assemble dinner option. This Korean favorite features marinated beef that's full of sweet and tangy notes. Paired with rice and your choice of vegetables, it’s a balanced dish that ticks all the boxes. You’ll find it hard not to love the flavors here.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Cajun Shrimp and Grits

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

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There’s something undeniably comforting about Cajun Shrimp and Grits, a southern classic that deserves all the praise. The spicy shrimp atop creamy, buttery grits makes for a combination that’s hard to resist. It’s a dish that brings warmth and a bit of spice to your dinner table. And it’s surprisingly easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Shrimp and Grits

Spicy Miso Ramen

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

For those nights when you're craving something spicy and warming, Spicy Miso Ramen is the ticket. This dish combines the richness of miso with a kick of spice, topped with all your favorite ramen add-ons. It's a bowl of comfort that's customizable to your taste preferences.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Miso Ramen

Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings

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

Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings are the ultimate game-day snack or easy dinner. Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, they’re seasoned to perfection. These wings are baked, not fried, making them a tad healthier without sacrificing taste. Just pair them with your favorite dipping sauce.
Get the Recipe: Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings

Crispy Beef

Low angle shot of crispy beef on a plate.
Crispy Beef. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When you're in the mood for something crispy and fulfilling, Crispy Beef should be on your menu. This dish features thinly sliced beef that gets a crunchy coating, all tossed in a sweet and sticky sauce. It's sure to fulfill your craving for a take-out style meal without the hassle. Easy to make and even easier to eat.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Beef

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 soup that’s both light and rich, Tom Kha Gai offers a unique balance. This Thai coconut chicken soup combines coconut milk, chicken, and a host of aromatics for a soothing bowl. It's as comforting as it is flavorful, making it a perfect choice for any day of the week. And it comes together more quickly than you might think.
Get the Recipe: Tom Kha Gai

Lamb Kofta Kebabs

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

Lamb Kofta Kebabs are a fun and easy way to spice up your grilling game. Ground lamb mixed with fresh herbs and spices, then grilled to perfection, offers a burst of Middle Eastern flavors. They're perfect for when you want something different from the usual barbecue fare.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Kofta Kebabs

Miso Glazed Salmon

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

This Miso Glazed Salmon is a dish that impresses without requiring much effort. The glaze gives the salmon a rich umami taste that's hard to forget. It's a simple way to turn a piece of salmon into something extraordinary. Pair it with rice and vegetables for a light yet fulfilling meal.
Get the Recipe: Miso Glazed Salmon

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.

Dan Dan Noodles bring a spicy kick to noodle lovers. This Sichuan classic combines noodles with a spicy, tangy sauce and minced pork for a dish that's full of texture and taste. It’s a street food favorite that you can recreate at home with ease. A real treat for those who love a little heat.
Get the Recipe: Dan Dan Noodles

Korean Hot Dogs

Overhead shot of Korean hot dogs on parchment paper.
Korean Hot Dogs. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

These Korean Hot Dogs are a street-food-inspired dish that’s all the rage. Think of a classic hot dog encased in a crispy, battered crust and rolled in sugar, then drizzled with sauce. It's a unique twist that’s both sweet and tangy. Great for when you want to try something fun and different.
Get the Recipe: Korean Hot Dogs

By on August 8th, 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

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