These 17 Meals? My Family’s Absolute Non-negotiables!

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These 17 Meals? My Family’s Absolute Non-negotiables!

If you’re looking for meal ideas that are always a hit, these 17 dishes are worth a try. They never get boring and come with zero complaints from the family. Perfect for busy nights or when you just want everyone to be happy at the table. They’re real crowd-pleasers that make meal planning way easier. Keep these meals in your weekly rotation and watch the smiles grow.

plate of bloody mary shrimp on peach tiles with a baguette.
Bloody Mary Shrimp. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Bangers & Mash with Guinness Gravy | No Onions

Gravy being poured over sausages and mashed potatoes.
Bangers & Mash with Guinness Gravy | No Onions. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Comfort food to the max, Bangers & Mash with Guinness Gravy brings a hearty kick to family dinners. The savory sausage paired with creamy mashed potatoes is an unbeatable combo. The Guinness gravy gives it a unique flavor that stands above the rest. It’s a delicious meal, perfect for those cooler nights. This recipe comes together quickly, making it a go-to on busy weekdays. It’s certain to have the whole family asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Bangers & Mash with Guinness Gravy | No Onions

Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Chicken breast with herbs, cheese and tomatoes.
Mediterranean Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Mediterranean Chicken Bake offers a flavorful, healthy option that’s as easy as it is delicious. The mix of aromatic spices and hearty chicken makes it a family favorite. It’s a quick meal full of wholesome goodness. Whether you’re looking for a simple dinner or something special, this hits the spot. Perfectly baked, it’s a fuss-free way to enjoy a nutritious meal. It’s a great way to get everyone excited about dinner.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Breaded Panko Pork Chops

Panko pork chop on plate with greens.
Breaded Panko Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Everyone loves Breaded Panko Pork Chops because they’re crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside. These pork chops come out perfectly golden brown every time. They’re a great choice for a home-cooked meal that feels like a treat. Quick to prepare and even quicker to disappear from plates. It’s a dish you can rely on to please even the pickiest eaters. It’s a staple that never gets old.
Get the Recipe: Breaded Panko Pork Chops

Bomb Meatloaf

Meatloaf on a white plate cut into slices with fresh parsley garnish.
Bomb Meatloaf. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

When you want something hearty and comforting, Bomb Meatloaf is always the answer. It’s packed with flavor and a real crowd-pleaser. Each bite is meaty and delicious, making it a family dinner essential. This meatloaf doesn’t disappoint and always delivers a meal everyone enjoys. Easy to whip up, it’s great for those nights when you want something filling. It’s a meal that stands strong on its own.
Get the Recipe: Bomb Meatloaf

Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole

Chicken casserole with baked cheese inside a white dish.
Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

Family dinners are made easier with Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole. Bursting with flavor, it’s both creamy and cheesy. It’s a quick fix that gets dinner on the table in no time. The combination of chicken and cheese is always a hit. Perfect for weeknights, it’s a dish everyone will love. You’ll find it in your regular dinner rotation.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole

Burger Mini Bites

Mini burgers with parsley.
Burger Mini Bites. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Kids and adults alike enjoy Burger Mini Bites, perfect for a fun, snackable dinner. These bite-sized treats are juicy and full of flavor. Quick to make, they’re ideal for any time you want something fun and different. Whether it’s a party or a casual dinner, they’re a great fit. They’re small but pack a big punch in taste. They’ll disappear off the plate in no time.
Get the Recipe: Burger Mini Bites

Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken

Black slow cooker with honey mustard chicken thighs topped with parsley and a wooden spoon in it.
Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken. Photo credit: Fitasamamabear.

Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken is fantastic when you need a meal to cook itself. The slow cooker does all the work and the result is tender, flavorful chicken. It’s perfect for those busy days when you want a home-cooked meal without the fuss. The honey mustard gives it a sweet and tangy edge. Easy and reliable, it’s a recipe that never fails. It’s always a hit in our home.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken

Walking Taco Casserole

Mexican casserole in a glass dish.
Walking Taco Casserole. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Fast and fun, Walking Taco Casserole combines the best of tacos and casseroles. It’s a creative twist that makes weeknight dinners a breeze. The kids love it because it’s hands-on and delicious. Perfect for when you want to mix up the usual taco night. This casserole adds a little excitement to the dinner table. It’s enjoyable for everyone and incredibly easy to put together.
Get the Recipe: Walking Taco Casserole

Shredded BBQ Chicken

Image shows a BBQ shredded chicken sandwich on a wooden board.
Shredded BBQ Chicken. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

When you need a quick fix, Shredded BBQ Chicken is the way to go. It’s versatile and works well in sandwiches, salads, or on its own. The BBQ flavor is tangy and rich, making it a big hit. Great for meal prep, it saves time throughout the week. Simple to make yet full of flavor. It’s a must-have recipe for busy families.
Get the Recipe: Shredded BBQ Chicken

Bitter Leaf Soup

Bowl of Bitter Leaf Soup.
Bitter Leaf Soup. Photo credit: Food Plus Words.

Traditional flavors shine through in Bitter Leaf Soup, a hearty option that warms you up. This soup is rich and delicious, perfect for any day. It’s packed with unique flavors that make it stand out. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. It’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Always a comforting choice for dinner.
Get the Recipe: Bitter Leaf Soup

Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Chops

Oven baked pork chop with pineapple and green beans, white plate wooden background.
Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Chops. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life.

Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Chops bring a sweet and savory delight to dinner time. The balance of flavors makes this recipe irresistible. These pork chops are easy to prepare and always taste great. Perfect for when you want something special without a lot of effort. It’s a refreshing change from the usual pork chops. Everyone at the table will love this meal.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Chops

Chicken Broccoli Potato Casserole

A chicken broccoli potato casserole in a baking dish.
Chicken Broccoli Potato Casserole. Photo credit: The Honour System.

Combining comfort and convenience, Chicken Broccoli Potato Casserole is a family favorite. It’s a wholesome meal that brings together your protein, veggies, and carbs. This casserole is deliciously creamy and filling. It’s an easy one-pan meal that makes dinner a breeze. Ideal for weeknights, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself going back to. This casserole brings a smile to everyone’s face.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Broccoli Potato Casserole

Hero Sandwich

Side view of a hero sandwich with meats, cheese, and veggies.
Hero Sandwich. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Hero Sandwich is perfect for those times when you want something simple yet fulfilling. It’s packed with layers of goodness that make every bite enjoyable. Its straightforward preparation makes it an excellent choice for any meal. This sandwich truly lives up to its name, always a winning choice. Easy to make and even easier to devour. It’s a go-to for a quick and pleasing meal.
Get the Recipe: Hero Sandwich

Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Dinner

A skillet filled with beef, rice and vegetables.
Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Dinner. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

For a one-pan wonder, Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Dinner is a chef’s kiss. It’s hearty and guaranteed to fill everyone up. This meal combines ease and taste perfectly. Ideal for nights when you want something fast, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. It’s straightforward, delicious, and always hits the spot. A staple in any family’s meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Dinner

Lemon Chicken Piccata Pasta

Chicken breast cut with pasta in the background.
Lemon Chicken Piccata Pasta. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

A refreshing twist on pasta night, Lemon Chicken Piccata Pasta offers vibrant flavors. The combination of chicken and lemon with pasta is light yet fulfilling. It’s quick to make and perfect for any weeknight. The flavorful hint really makes this dish pop. This pasta dish easily becomes a favorite in no time. It’s a joy to put together and even more fun to eat.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Chicken Piccata Pasta

Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos

Stacked taquitos on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Quick and crispy, Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos are perfect when you’re short on time. Their crunchy exterior and flavorful filling make them a hit. Great for a snack or a quick dinner, they’re incredibly easy to make. The air fryer gets them perfectly crisp without the extra oil. Perfect for days when you need something fast and tasty. Everyone loves these little bites.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos

Bloody Mary Shrimp

plate of bloody mary shrimp on peach tiles with a baguette.
Bloody Mary Shrimp. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Savory and unique, Bloody Mary Shrimp is a must-try for seafood lovers. It’s filled with a blend of rich flavors that make it stand out. Simple to prepare, it’s an excellent choice for a special occasion. The shrimp soaks up the distinct flavor beautifully. It’s a dish that’s impressive yet easy to make. Great for those times you want something different and exciting.
Get the Recipe: Bloody Mary Shrimp

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