This weekend is the perfect time to indulge in some hearty meals that promise both fulfillment and enjoyment. With 17 big, bold dishes available, there’s a variety of options that cater to different tastes for a substantial dinner. Each dish is designed to stand out, making any meal feel like a special event. These meals are perfect for those who appreciate a good, solid dinner that brings people together around the table.
Chicken Biryani
With roots in South Asia, it’s a hearty one-pot dish that combines a unique blend of spices, rice, and chicken. Chicken Biryani is a crowd-pleaser, that can serve as the centerpiece for gatherings or a family weekend meal. People often appreciate its aromatic presence, filling the room with an inviting scent.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Biryani
Crispy Beef
Loved for its texture and rich taste, Crispy Beef provides a powerful hit of protein that can be both energizing and comforting. It goes well with a variety of side dishes and can be customized with different sauces and spices. This dish has found its way into many cultures, often becoming a go-to for people seeking a hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Beef
Air Fryer Pork Belly
Utilizing the convenience of an air fryer, this Pork Belly offers a less greasy alternative to traditional pan-fried options. The result is a contrasting texture that often surprises people with its up-leveled crunch-to-softness ratio. It’s a modern take on a classic, enjoyed for its rich taste without an excess of oil. Many find that it’s a weekday favorite that also shines as a weekend special.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Belly
Chicken Hot and Sour Soup
In many cultures, Chicken Hot and Sour Soup has become a go-to for both comfort food enthusiasts and those looking for something with a bit of a kick. It often strikes a balance between spicy and sour, offering a warm and substantial option for cold days or when you’re feeling under the weather. Because of its restorative reputation, it is frequently featured in weekend dinner plans.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Hot and Sour Soup
Grilled Flank Steak with Chile Butter
Grilled Flank Steak with Chile Butter brings heat and a bold experience to your plate, thanks to the chile-infused butter that gently melts over the expertly grilled meat. It’s ideal for outdoor cooking enthusiasts and those who appreciate a little fire in their meal. It has become a talked-about dish for those who like to entertain and impress.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Flank Steak with Chile Butter
Pork Belly Banh Mi
Originating from Vietnam, Pork Belly Banh Mi has taken the world by storm, introducing a contrast of crunchy, tangy vegetables with rich, soft pork belly in a single bite. The combination of textures and flavors often leaves a memorable experience for those who try it. It’s especially fitting for a weekend lunch that shines in simplicity and taste.
Get the Recipe: Pork Belly Banh Mi
Air Fryer Lamb Chops
This method offers an alternative to traditional cooking, providing a juicy, tender inside with a perfectly crisp exterior. Air Fryer Lamb Chops has been a staple for those who want to introduce a touch of luxury to their weekend meals without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a meal that many enjoy with family or when hosting a cozy dinner at home.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Lamb Chops
Chicken 65
Hailing from India, Chicken 65 is renowned for its fiery spices and deep-fried goodness. It often serves as either an appetizer or main course, depending on your hunger level. Many enjoy it during casual get-togethers or as a decadent treat for a weekend feast.
Get the Recipe: Chicken 65
Jewish Brisket
Jewish Brisket has deep cultural ties and is frequently associated with holiday meals and family get-togethers. It has managed to capture the hearts of many, not just for its taste but also for the shared memories it often evokes. For those looking for a substantial main to anchor their weekend dinner, it remains a solid choice.
Get the Recipe: Jewish Brisket
Pork Fried Rice
It’s a go-to dish for leftovers, incorporating yesterday’s rice with hearty bits of pork to create a new meal. Many appreciate its status as a quick yet fulfilling dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Pork Fried Rice is often regarded as a versatile dinner option, easily adapted to suit different tastes and styles. It’s commonly made on a busy weekend, offering a delicious way to utilize resources efficiently.
Get the Recipe: Pork Fried Rice
Chicken Kathi Rolls
Known for their street food charm, Chicken Kathi Rolls provides a handheld meal wrapped in a warm paratha. Perfect for a busy weekend outing or a casual meal, these rolls have become a staple for those on the move. It’s often chosen for its ease of customization to individual preferences.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Kathi Rolls
Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Bites
Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Bites offer a spicy and cheesy experience in a small, bite-sized form. The air fryer’s use here highlights a guilt-free approach to what would typically be considered a treat. Many enjoy these as a snack during game nights or as a novel appetizer for guests.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Bites
Lamb Kofta Kebabs
These are celebrated in many cultures for their mix of herbs and spices threaded onto a skewer. Often grilled, they present a smoky, rich taste that pulls you into a world of tradition and flavor. They’re as social as they are fulfilling, commonly found at gatherings where sharing food is part of the joy. For many, Lamb Kofta Kebabs offers a chance to enjoy the process of cooking just as much as eating.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Kofta Kebabs
Thai Turkey Meatballs
With influences from Southeast Asia, Thai Turkey Meatballs are a lighter alternative to their beef counterparts. They’ve become popular for those looking for something a little different, blending in a variety of spices and herbs. Often served as part of a larger spread, they’re easy to make in big batches for family weekends. Many people celebrate them for their adaptability whether it’s for a casual dinner or a more formal occasion.
Get the Recipe: Thai Turkey Meatballs
Air Fryer Orange Chicken
Air Fryer Orange Chicken is praised for its capability to mimic the classic crispy texture without an excess of oil. Citrusy and sticky, the outcome is reminiscent of the versions people have loved from restaurants, but made at home. It’s often a hit for a casual yet indulgent weekend meal you can make without leaving the house.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Orange Chicken
Char Siu
Recognized by its distinct red hue and sweet glaze, it hails from Cantonese cuisine and has become a fixture at many tables, known for its succulent texture and rich coating. Often enjoyed with rice or steamed buns, Char Siu offers versatility in serving options. For those keen on hosting or wanting a special meal to round off the week, it makes a striking statement.
Get the Recipe: Char Siu
Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers
Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers offer a different spin on a beloved appetizer, focusing on less oil and more flavor. The air fryer crisps these bites to perfection, allowing the heat of the jalapeños to mingle with the stuffing uniformly. Ideal for a weekend gathering or a pre-dinner nibble, they have soared in popularity among those looking for a smarter way to indulge.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers