20 Quick Family Meals Under $15
Sometimes, life gets busy and cooking can feel like a chore, but whipping up a tasty meal for the family doesn’t have to break the bank! Here’s a collection of 20 quick family meals that won’t cost more than $15. Perfect for those hectic weeknights, these recipes are easy to follow and sure to please everyone at the table.
Chickpea Curry with Coconut Milk
This Chickpea Curry with Coconut Milk is a quick and satisfying meal that brings together the rich flavors of coconut and spices. The creamy coconut milk complements the hearty chickpeas, creating a comforting dish that’s both nutritious and delicious. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something easy to throw together.
The combination of spices in this curry adds warmth and depth, while the chickpeas provide protein and fiber. Plus, it’s simple enough for anyone to make, making it a great option for families. Serve it over rice for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the drained chickpeas and coconut milk to the pan. Stir to combine, and bring to a simmer.
- Cook for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the curry over cooked rice and garnish with fresh cilantro.
One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice
This One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice recipe is a quick and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. With juicy shrimp cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, paired with fluffy rice, it’s packed with flavor and comes together in just about 30 minutes.
Not only is it simple to prepare, but it’s also perfect for busy weeknights. Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. The delightful combination of garlic, butter, and herbs creates a delicious sauce that brings the shrimp and rice together beautifully.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the rice, then add the chicken broth and paprika. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Add the shrimp on top of the rice, cover again, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.
Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu
This Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu is a fantastic meal that’s quick, delicious, and packed with flavor. The blend of crisp vegetables and protein-rich tofu creates a satisfying dish that’s perfect for any family dinner. It’s simple to whip up, making it a go-to choice for busy weeknights.
The stir-fry combines fresh vegetables like bell peppers and green onions, sautéed to bring out their natural sweetness, all tossed in a savory sauce. Tofu adds a hearty texture, making this dish not only healthy but also filling. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 14 oz firm tofu, cubed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 cup snap peas
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Tofu: Drain and press the tofu to remove excess moisture. Cut into cubes.
- Marinate the Tofu: In a bowl, combine cubed tofu, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
- Cook the Tofu: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the marinated tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables: In the same pan, add a bit more sesame oil. Stir-fry the garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds, then add the bell pepper, broccoli, carrot, and snap peas. Cook for 3-5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Combine Everything: Return the tofu to the pan and pour in the cornstarch mixture. Stir everything together and cook for another 2 minutes to thicken the sauce.
- Serve: Serve the stir-fry over cooked rice or noodles and garnish with chopped green onions.
Chicken Fajitas with Peppers and Onions
Chicken fajitas are a quick and tasty meal that the whole family will love. With juicy chicken, colorful peppers, and onions, this dish is not only vibrant but also packed with flavor. The combination of spices and the char from the grill or skillet adds a delightful twist, making each bite enjoyable.
This recipe is super simple to whip up, perfect for busy weeknights. Just sauté everything together, and serve with warm tortillas for a fun and interactive meal. You can customize the toppings with your favorites, such as guacamole or sour cream, to make it even more delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bell pepper (red, green, or yellow), sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 8 small flour tortillas
- Optional toppings: guacamole, salsa, sour cream, shredded cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and season with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Add the sliced bell pepper and onion to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Warm the flour tortillas in a separate pan or microwave. Serve the chicken and veggies in the tortillas, allowing everyone to add their favorite toppings.
Taco Salad with Ground Beef
Taco salad with ground beef is a tasty and satisfying dish that brings the flavors of tacos into a fresh salad form. It’s packed with a variety of textures and tastes, from the savory beef to crisp vegetables and crunchy tortilla strips. Perfect for busy evenings, this meal is quick to prepare and sure to please the whole family.
This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize the toppings to suit your family’s preferences. Whether you like it spicy or mild, you can adjust the seasonings and toppings accordingly. With all the vibrant ingredients, this salad is not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 4 cups shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 cup tortilla chips, crushed
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup salsa
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning and follow packet instructions, usually adding a bit of water and simmering.
- Prepare the Salad Base: In a large bowl, layer the shredded lettuce as the base. Add diced tomatoes, chopped bell peppers, and sliced green onions on top.
- Add the Beef: Once the beef mixture is ready, spoon it over the salad base.
- Top It Off: Sprinkle the shredded cheese and crushed tortilla chips over the beef. Drizzle with sour cream and salsa for added flavor.
- Serve: Toss gently before serving, or let everyone mix their own salad at the table. Enjoy your taco salad!
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a simple yet flavorful Italian dish that showcases the beauty of minimal ingredients. With its garlicky aroma and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick but satisfying. The combination of olive oil, garlic, and spaghetti creates a delicious harmony that appeals to the whole family.
This recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it can also be made in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for a last-minute dinner. Toss in some parsley for a fresh touch, and you’ve got a meal that feels gourmet without breaking the bank.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
- Prepare the Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the garlic is golden but not burnt.
- Combine: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat with the garlic oil. If the pasta seems dry, add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Finish: Season with salt and stir in the chopped parsley. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Egg Fried Rice with Vegetables
Egg Fried Rice with Vegetables is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings together fluffy rice and colorful veggies, all tossed in a savory stir-fry. This meal is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a simple family gathering. The combination of textures and flavors, along with the added protein from the eggs, makes it a well-rounded option that everyone will love.
The best part? You can customize this dish with whatever vegetables you have on hand, so it’s a great way to use up leftovers. It’s not just tasty, but it’s also budget-friendly, allowing you to create a hearty meal without breaking the bank. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, and bell peppers)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat.
- Add the mixed vegetables and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until tender.
- Push the vegetables to one side of the pan and crack the eggs into the empty space. Scramble them until fully cooked.
- Mix the scrambled eggs with the vegetables, then add the cooked rice to the pan.
- Pour in the soy sauce and stir everything together, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Finally, stir in the chopped green onions before serving.
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a crowd-pleaser that’s both delicious and easy to whip up on a busy night. Tender beef is combined with vibrant broccoli and carrots, all tossed in a savory sauce that brings the dish to life. It’s a great option for families looking for a quick meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor!
The best part? You can prepare this tasty dish in about 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Pair it with steamed rice, and you’ve got a complete meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 pound beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef: In a bowl, mix the sliced beef with soy sauce and cornstarch. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes.
- Stir-Fry the Veggies: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli and carrots, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Beef: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Add the garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds. Then, add the marinated beef and cook for 4-5 minutes until browned.
- Combine: Return the vegetables to the skillet with the beef. Pour in the oyster sauce, stirring everything together until well coated and heated through.
- Serve: Serve hot over cooked rice and enjoy your delicious Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry!
Pasta Primavera with Seasonal Vegetables
Pasta primavera is a vibrant dish that celebrates fresh, seasonal vegetables, making it a perfect choice for family meals. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also light and flavorful, showcasing the natural sweetness of the veggies. With a simple garlic and olive oil sauce, you can whip up this delightful dish in no time!
Your family will love the mix of textures and colors, and it’s an excellent way to sneak in a serving of vegetables. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate whatever seasonal produce you have on hand. Let’s dive into this easy recipe!
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the sliced bell pepper, zucchini, and broccoli. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Add Tomatoes: Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they soften slightly.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Creamy Mushroom Risotto
Creamy Mushroom Risotto is the perfect quick meal for the family. Rich, comforting, and bursting with earthy flavors, this dish feels indulgent without demanding a lot of time. You’ll love how the creamy texture of Arborio rice pairs perfectly with savory mushrooms, creating a deliciously satisfying experience.
This recipe is straightforward, making it ideal for weeknight dinners. With just a handful of ingredients and a little stirring, you can whip up this delicious risotto that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the broth in a saucepan and keep it warm over low heat.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook until the mushrooms are soft, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes until the rice is slightly toasted.
- Begin adding warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Allow the rice to absorb the broth before adding more.
- Continue this process until the rice is creamy and al dente, about 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and garnish with parsley if desired.
Cabbage and Sausage Skillet
This Cabbage and Sausage Skillet is an easy one-pan meal that brings together savory sausage and tender cabbage for a deliciously satisfying dish. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy nights.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip this up in no time. It’s hearty, filling, and sure to please the entire family. Plus, it keeps your grocery budget intact!
Ingredients
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage slices and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the onion and potatoes to the skillet, stirring occasionally until the potatoes start to soften, about 8-10 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped cabbage, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cover the skillet and cook for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cabbage is tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.
Baked Ziti with Mozzarella
Baked ziti with mozzarella is a classic comfort food that everyone loves. This dish is a cozy combination of pasta, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese that creates a satisfying meal for the whole family. It’s simple to make and is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without too much fuss.
The flavors meld beautifully, and the melted mozzarella on top adds a creamy finish that ties everything together. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, making it an ideal choice for families looking to eat well without breaking the bank. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti, marinara sauce, basil, oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Mix in half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Homemade Margherita Pizza
Homemade Margherita pizza brings the classic flavors of Italy straight to your kitchen. With its fresh basil, creamy mozzarella, and zesty tomato sauce, this pizza is a delightful treat that’s simple to whip up on a busy night. It’s perfect for families who want a quick meal that everyone will love.
The best part? Making your own pizza means you can customize it to your taste. Whether you prefer a thick crust or a thin one, this recipe is easy to adjust. Gather the family and get everyone involved in the pizza-making process; it’s a fun way to spend time together while creating a delicious dinner.
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa
Stuffed bell peppers are a colorful and nutritious way to bring the family together for a delicious meal. These vibrant peppers, filled with quinoa, veggies, and spices, offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures. They’re not only visually appealing but also packed with protein and fiber, making them a healthy option for everyone.
Preparing stuffed bell peppers is simple and quick, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. You can easily customize the filling to suit your family’s taste preferences, whether you want to add beans for extra protein or some cheese for a creamy touch. This dish is sure to satisfy and is budget-friendly as well.
Ingredients
- 4 medium bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them upright in a baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, onion, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, packing it gently. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to melt the cheese, if added.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your colorful stuffed peppers!
Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze
Caprese salad is a fresh and vibrant dish that showcases the flavors of summer. With ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, this salad is simple yet elegant. The addition of balsamic glaze adds a sweet tang that perfectly complements the juicy tomatoes and rich cheese.
Making Caprese salad is quick and requires minimal prep time, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. It’s light, refreshing, and packed with flavor, proving that salads can be satisfying and delicious.
Ingredients
- 4 ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)
Instructions
- Layer the Slices: On a serving platter, alternate slices of tomatoes and mozzarella cheese.
- Add Basil: Tuck fresh basil leaves between the layers of tomatoes and mozzarella.
- Drizzle: Lightly drizzle with balsamic glaze and olive oil (if using).
- Season: Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately as a fresh side dish or light meal.
Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
Zucchini noodles with pesto make a fresh and light meal that the whole family will love. This dish combines the crunch of zucchini with the smooth and aromatic flavor of pesto, creating a bright and satisfying meal. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
This recipe is not only delicious but also a great way to sneak in some veggies. It’s quick to prepare and can be made in under 30 minutes. Everyone can join in the fun, from spiralizing the zucchini to tossing it with the pesto sauce!
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Spiralize the Zucchini: Use a spiralizer or a vegetable peeler to create zucchini noodles. Set aside.
- Make the Pesto: In a food processor, combine basil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped. Slowly add olive oil while processing until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss Together: In a large bowl, toss the zucchini noodles with the pesto until well coated.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately as a refreshing meal or side dish!
Black Bean Quesadillas with Avocado
Black bean quesadillas are a quick and tasty option for busy families. They combine creamy avocados with savory black beans and melted cheese, creating a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Plus, they are super easy to whip up, making them perfect for a weeknight dinner.
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein and healthy fats. The crispy tortillas paired with fresh avocado slices provide a delightful contrast in texture. Serve them with salsa or a side salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 4 flour tortillas
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place one tortilla in the skillet, and sprinkle half of the cheese on one half of the tortilla.
- Add a layer of black beans, then season with cumin, salt, and pepper. Top with the remaining cheese and fold the tortilla in half.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Remove from the skillet and repeat with the remaining tortillas.
- Serve the quesadillas with sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro on the side.
Vegetable Soup with Crusty Bread
Vegetable soup is a hearty and comforting dish that brings warmth to any table. It’s packed with vibrant veggies, making it not just tasty but also a nutritious choice for the whole family. The blend of flavors from the fresh vegetables creates a satisfying and wholesome meal that’s simple to whip up.
This recipe is perfect for busy evenings, as it comes together in no time. Serve it with slices of crusty bread for dipping, and you have a delightful meal that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (like green beans, peas, or corn)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Crusty bread for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes to the pot. Bring to a boil.
- Stir in the mixed vegetables, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes until all vegetables are tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and alongside slices of crusty bread.
Teriyaki Chicken Bowls
Teriyaki Chicken Bowls are a fantastic choice for a quick and delicious family meal. Tender chicken pieces are coated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, bringing a burst of flavor to your dinner table. This dish is not only satisfying but also colorful, featuring vibrant broccoli and fluffy rice that make it appealing to both kids and adults.
Making this meal is super easy and takes just about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite veggies!
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the broccoli to the skillet and stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still crisp.
- Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and broccoli, stirring to coat everything evenly. Let it cook for another 2 minutes to warm the sauce.
- Serve the chicken and broccoli over a bed of white rice. Drizzle with extra teriyaki sauce if desired and sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.
Homestyle Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes
Homestyle meatloaf is the kind of dish that brings back warm memories of family dinners. With its hearty texture and rich flavor, this classic comfort food is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Topped with a tangy glaze, it pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes, making for a delicious combination that everyone at the table will enjoy.
This meal is not only budget-friendly but also quick to make, allowing you to whip up a wholesome dinner in no time. Simple ingredients create layers of flavor, ensuring this dish will be a regular in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- Additional ketchup for glaze
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, chopped onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until well combined.
- If using, fold in diced bell peppers for added flavor and color.
- Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf. Spread additional ketchup on top for a glaze.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until cooked through. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- While the meatloaf bakes, prepare your mashed potatoes according to your favorite recipe. Serve alongside the meatloaf for a complete meal.