Back To School? Here's Your Easy Weeknight Dinner Planner

Need dinner on the table fast? Has back-to-school got you down? Well, then, you’re in the right place! These quick dinner recipes will help you create a tasty meal in minutes. They’re simple to prepare and packed with flavor, making them perfect for busy nights when you still want something satisfying. Let these recipes take the stress out of dinner time!

Hearty Pumpkin Chili

A pot of chili with turkey and pumpkin topped with avocado and sour cream. — Hearty Pumpkin Chili. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Warm up with a bowl of Hearty Pumpkin Chili, a unique twist on a classic dish. This chili blends tender ground beef with the rich flavor of pumpkin, creating a comforting meal that’s perfect for cooler days. A hint of spice balances the sweetness, making it a favorite for cozy nights in.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Pumpkin Chili

Stuffed Chicken

Stuffed Chicken is a deliciously satisfying meal that’s both flavorful and filling. Juicy chicken breasts are filled with a blend of cheeses and spinach, then baked to perfection. This dish is an excellent choice for an easy yet impressive dinner.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Chicken

Crispy Pork Chops

Crispy air fryer pork chops served on a white plate with thyme leavesf for garnish. — Crispy Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Crispy Pork Chops are a quick and easy way to enjoy a flavorful dinner. Coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture, these chops come out of the oven golden brown and perfectly crunchy. Serve with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Pork Chops

Creamy Garlic Chicken

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a comfort food classic that never disappoints. Tender chicken breasts are simmered in a rich garlic cream sauce, making this dish both indulgent and simple to prepare. Pair it with a side of vegetables or pasta for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Chicken Fajita Casserole

Chicken Fajita Casserole is a one-dish wonder that’s packed with flavor. Layers of seasoned chicken, bell peppers, and onions are baked with melted cheese for an easy and hearty meal. This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fajita Casserole

Sausage Tortellini Soup

Sausage Tortellini Soup is a comforting bowl of warmth that’s perfect for any time of year. This soup combines savory sausage with tender tortellini in a flavorful broth, making it a hearty option for lunch or dinner. The addition of fresh spinach and a sprinkle of Parmesan takes it over the top.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Tortellini Soup

Creamy Mushroom Soup

A spoonful of soup with mushrooms and thyme. — Creamy Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Creamy Mushroom Soup is a rich and earthy delight that’s perfect for mushroom lovers. Made with a blend of fresh mushrooms and a velvety cream base, this soup is both luxurious and comforting. It’s a great way to start a meal or enjoy on its own with a slice of crusty bread.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mushroom Soup

Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers

A hand holding a sandwich with a sausage and peppers. — Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers is a quick and hearty dinner that’s perfect for busy school nights. The Instant Pot cooks everything in a fraction of the time, so you can have a flavorful meal ready with minimal effort. Serve it over pasta or with a side of crusty bread, and you’ve got a satisfying dinner that the whole family will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers

Antipasto Salad

Antipasto Salad is a fresh and vibrant option that’s perfect for lunch or as a starter. This salad features a mix of Italian meats, cheeses, and marinated vegetables, all tossed in a light vinaigrette. It’s a colorful and flavorful dish that’s as appealing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

Lasagna Soup

A warm pot of tomato soup, perfect for cozy winter dinners. — Lasagna Soup. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska..

Lasagna Soup is a faster alternative to traditional lasagna, making it ideal for those hectic back-to-school evenings. All the classic flavors of lasagna come together in a comforting soup that’s ready in much less time. It’s an easy, one-pot meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your weeknight dinner rotation.
Get the Recipe: Lasagna Soup

Chicken Piccata

Creamy chicken in a cast iron skillet with capers. — Chicken Piccata . Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Chicken Piccata is a quick, flavorful dish that’s great for busy weeknights. The chicken cooks quickly in a tangy lemon and caper sauce, making it both simple and delicious. Pair it with a side of pasta or rice, and you’ve got a satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata