Easy back to school dinners your family will actually look forward to – in 30 minutes or less!
When the school year kicks off, my dinner routine has to shift fast. Between homework, sports, and “Mom, what’s for dinner?” at 4:30 p.m., I lean hard on a handful of tried-and-true meals that are quick, simple, and guaranteed to disappear from plates.
You’ll find everything from comforting casseroles and one-pot pastas to speedy skillet dinners and freezer-friendly favorites. They're the kind of recipes that let you skip the stress and still serve something homemade that everyone’s excited to eat.
1. Thai Basil Chicken
Thai Basil Chicken is bold, savory, and ready in 30 minutes – perfect for a midweek dinner that feels different but still doable. Serve it over rice and dinner is done in one skillet. Also, check out our Thai Basil Beef recipe!
2. One Pan Chicken Alfredo
My One-Pan Chicken Alfredo is a lighter take on comfort food without sacrificing the creamy pasta your family loves. It's all made in one pot with less mess and more ease. This is a go-to when I want something cozy but quick.
3. One Pan Skillet Lasagna
One-Pan Skillet Lasagna has all the cheesy comfort of classic lasagna – without the layers or the cleanup. Everything cooks in one skillet, and it’s on the table in 30 minutes.
4. Pork Chops with Creamy Mustard Sauce
Pork Chops with Creamy Mustard Sauce turns a basic dinner into something crave-worthy in under 30 minutes. The sauce is tangy and rich, perfect over mashed potatoes or rice. These feel fancy without being fussy.
5. Breakfast Fried Rice
Breakfast Fried Rice isn’t just for mornings – it makes a fantastic brinner (breakfast-for-dinner!) the whole family loves. Toss in leftover veggies, sausage, or bacon for a customizable, one-pan win. It’s a clever way to clean out the fridge, too.
6. Grilled Chicken Sandwich
These easy Grilled Chicken Sandwiches are juicy, flavorful, and lighter than hamburgers – without feeling like diet food. Pile them high with your favorite toppings and serve with fruit salad or homemade fries for a super simple dinner. They’re freezer-friendly too!
7. Cuban Sandwich
This homemade Cuban Sandwich is the ultimate pressed sandwich – melty, crispy, and packed with flavor. It’s great for using up leftover pork and comes together in a flash. Serve with chips or fruit for a low-effort dinner that still feels special.
8. Pizza Sliders
Pizza Sliders are cheesy, saucy, and baked all at once- hello, no fuss dinner! They’re a big hit with kids and easy to customize with your favorite toppings. Also, try our Pizza Casserole.
9. Taco Soup
Taco Soup is bold, hearty, and ready in one pot. It’s perfect for busy nights with a quick cleanup.
10. Greek Burgers with Feta Aioli
Greek Burgers bring Mediterranean flair to your weeknight rotation, with feta, spinach, and tzatziki built right in. They’re a fun twist on traditional burgers and just as easy to make. Serve them in pitas or buns – whatever you’ve got!
11. Mongolian Noodles
Mongolian Noodles are rich, saucy, and loaded with ground beef and vegetables. Ready in under 30 minutes, this noodle bowl hits the spot on a busy school night.
12. Tortellini Pasta Salad
Tortellini Pasta Salad is hearty enough to be dinner and it’s loaded with black beans, corn, and a zesty dressing – delicious served cold or at room temp. This is one of my favorite make-ahead meals for chaotic evenings.
13. Monte Cristo Sandwich
This Monte Cristo Sandwich is a crispy, sweet‑and‑savory delight! It’s perfect when you want something that feels special but comes together fast. Also, try our Croque Monsieur for a similar elegant twist.
14. Baked Tacos
Baked Tacos make taco night even easier – just assemble, bake, and serve! Everything gets warm and melty in the oven, and the crispy shells stay perfect.
15. Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken is crispy, juicy, and baked, not fried, for a lighter spin on a classic. It’s quick enough for weeknights and pairs with just about anything.
16. American Goulash
American Goulash is a comforting, all-in-one pasta meal with ground beef, tomato sauce, and elbow macaroni. It’s budget-friendly and makes enough to feed a crowd, or have leftovers for lunch. It's a total classic for a reason!
17. Egg Roll in a Bowl
Egg Roll in a Bowl is a savory, veggie-packed dish made in one skillet, ready in just 20 minutes. It’s the easiest way to enjoy egg roll flavor without the fuss of frying or wrappers.
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