17 Main Dishes That Could Change The Way You Cook

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17 Main Dishes That Could Change The Way You Cook

Tired of eating the same three meals on repeat like a broken record? It’s time to refresh your playlist—these 17 main dishes will change the way you think about cooking. From quick fixes to meals that make you feel like a pro, these recipes are your ticket to escaping the dinner rut. Warning: friends might ask for your secrets, and you’ll have to pretend you just “threw it together.”

Low angle shot of szechuan shrimp in a wok.
Szechuan Shrimp. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Singapore Rice Noodles

A plate of stir-fried vermicelli noodles mixed with vegetables, egg, and meat, being served with tongs on a white dish.
Singapore Rice Noodles. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

If you’re tired of the usual weeknight dinners, then you’re going to want to try this one. Singapore Rice Noodles is the kind of dish that sneaks up on you with its bold mix of flavors and rewarding texture. It’s light but still filling, and you might start wondering why you didn’t try it sooner. Definitely a game-changer for when you’re craving something different.
Get the Recipe: Singapore Rice Noodles

Kung Pao Chicken

Low angle shot of a bowl of kung pao chicken.
Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

There’s something about a dish that balances a little heat with a lot of flavor that keeps you coming back. That’s exactly what happens with Kung Pao Chicken—it’s a total flavor-packed experience that could make your other dinner options feel boring. Once you try it, you’ll be switching up your dinner routine for good. It’s one of those dishes that keeps your meals exciting.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Spicy Dan Dan Noodles with Ground Pork

A fork lifts a tantalizing forkful of noodles mixed with sausage and vegetables from a black skillet. The dish appears to be creamy and richly seasoned, reminiscent of dan dan noodles, with visible bits of meat and greens intertwined with the noodles.
Spicy Dan Dan Noodles with Ground Pork. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

Some dishes just have a way of making you rethink your whole approach to dinner, and Spicy Dan Dan Noodles with Ground Pork is one of them. With every bite, you get a rewarding kick of heat that will have you questioning why you haven’t made this sooner. This is not your typical noodle dish, and you’ll find yourself craving it on repeat. It might just be your next go-to.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Dan Dan Noodles with Ground Pork

Blackened Fish Tacos

Blackened fish tacos in taco holders.
Blackened Fish Tacos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

You didn’t know tacos could do this, but they can! Blackened Fish Tacos are the kind of meal that makes your usual taco night look a bit plain. The bold, smoky flavors combine in a way that leaves you feeling like you’ve really stepped up your taco game. After this, regular tacos might just feel a little too basic.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Fish Tacos

Udon Noodles with Thai Green Curry

A bowl of green curry noodles topped with shredded chicken, lime slices, red chili slices, and fresh cilantro. Chopsticks are lifting a portion of the noodles from the bowl. A soft background showcases another bowl and fresh herbs.
Udon Noodles with Thai Green Curry. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

This dish is going to change the way you see noodle bowls. Udon Noodles with Thai Green Curry gives you that perfect mix of comforting noodles and bold flavors. It’s cozy, but it’s not the typical comfort food you’re used to, making it a perfect dish for those cooler fall nights. This might just become your favorite dinner surprise.
Get the Recipe: Udon Noodles with Thai Green Curry

Air Fryer Enchiladas

A hand holding a n empanada that is broken open so you can see the inside filling.
Air Fryer Enchiladas. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

You’ll be amazed at how easy and delicious Air Fryer Enchiladas can be. These pack all the flavor you’d expect but in a way that feels new and fresh, making your regular enchilada recipe seem like yesterday’s news. It’s quick, crispy, and surprisingly rewarding, perfect for a busy fall evening when you need something simple but good.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Enchiladas

Mongolian Beef Noodles

A close-up of a fork holding a bite of pasta with ground meat, green onions, and sauce. The pasta is wrapped around the fork tines, displaying the dish's ingredients and textures in detail, with a blurred background featuring more of the meal.
Mongolian Beef Noodles. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

If you’re looking to shake up your noodle game, Mongolian Beef Noodles is the dish to try. It’s rich and flavorful, but in a way that doesn’t overwhelm, making it ideal for a cozy night in. You’ll find yourself wondering how such a simple dish can feel this indulgent. After a bite, you might not look at beef the same way again.
Get the Recipe: Mongolian Beef Noodles

Miso Glazed Salmon

Miso glazed salmon on a plate with rice and spinach.
Miso Glazed Salmon. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When you want something that feels special but doesn’t take forever to make, Miso Glazed Salmon has got you covered. This dish is simple but packs a punch in terms of flavor. It’s light yet rewarding, making it perfect for a fall dinner that won’t leave you feeling too stuffed. After trying it, you might just add it to your weekly menu.
Get the Recipe: Miso Glazed Salmon

Beef Chow Fun

Two bowls of beef chow fun stir-fried with broccoli and bean sprouts, garnished with sesame seeds. The dishes are served in gray bowls, and the background shows another bowl with ingredients. A pair of chopsticks is placed beside the front bowl.
Beef Chow Fun. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

You haven’t experienced noodle perfection until you’ve had Beef Chow Fun. It’s the kind of dish that makes you realize how good a simple stir-fry can be. The flavors are straightforward yet bold enough to make this dish feel like more than just a regular weeknight dinner. It’s a new way to think about noodles for sure.
Get the Recipe: Beef Chow Fun

Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings

Basket of fried chicken with chilies and garlic.
Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you thought chicken wings were just for game day, Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings will prove otherwise. These wings bring enough flavor to stand on their own, making them perfect for any meal. Once you’ve had these, you might start rethinking your usual fall snacks and dinners. They’re crispy, flavorful, and seriously hard to resist.
Get the Recipe: Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings

Cajun Shrimp and Grits

A bowl of grits topped with cajun shrimp.
Cajun Shrimp and Grits. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

You’ll wonder why you haven’t been making Cajun Shrimp and Grits all along. This dish brings together bold flavors and comforting textures, creating a meal that’s hard to forget. Perfect for fall, it’s one of those dishes that will make you rethink how rewarding a simple dinner can be. It’s comfort food with a little bit of an edge.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Shrimp and Grits

Ramen Fried Chicken

Hand reaching into a bowl of ramen fried chicken pieces.
Ramen Fried Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Fried chicken just got an upgrade with Ramen Fried Chicken. The crispy, flavorful coating will make you look at your usual fried chicken in a whole new light. This dish is fun, unexpected, and perfect for mixing up your fall dinner plans. After trying it, you’ll be wondering why you didn’t think of it sooner.
Get the Recipe: Ramen Fried Chicken

Shrimp Yakisoba

Shrimp yakisoba on a plate.
Shrimp Yakisoba. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When you’re craving something that feels comforting but also a bit different, Shrimp Yakisoba is the dish for you. The flavors blend so well together, and the noodles bring that perfect cozy vibe you want in a fall meal. It’s one of those dishes you’ll make once and then keep in rotation because it’s just that good.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Yakisoba

Pork Fried Rice

Pork fried rice in a blue and white striped bowl.
Pork Fried Rice. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Tired of the same old rice dishes? Pork Fried Rice will completely change your mind. It’s filling, full of flavor, and will leave you wondering why you’ve been sticking to the basics for so long. This dish brings something new to the table, and you’ll be glad you gave it a shot. It’s perfect for those chill fall evenings.
Get the Recipe: Pork Fried Rice

Shrimp and Chorizo Tacos

Shrimp tacos on a plate with lime wedges.
Shrimp and Chorizo Tacos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

You’ve had tacos, but Shrimp and Chorizo Tacos are a different level. The combination of flavors will have you wondering why this wasn’t your go-to taco from the start. It’s bold, flavorful, and perfect for spicing up your regular dinner lineup. You’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Chorizo Tacos

Mochiko Chicken

A hand holding a crispy piece of mochiko chicken.
Mochiko Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Crispy, flavorful, and different from your usual chicken recipes, Mochiko Chicken is here to change things up. This dish is simple enough for a weeknight but unique enough to feel like you’re trying something new. Once you’ve had it, regular chicken just won’t feel the same anymore. It’s perfect for when you need a quick dinner idea.
Get the Recipe: Mochiko Chicken

Szechuan Shrimp

Low angle shot of szechuan shrimp in a wok.
Szechuan Shrimp. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you’re looking to add a little heat to your dinner routine, Szechuan Shrimp is the way to go. This dish brings just enough spice to keep things interesting without being overwhelming. You’ll love how easy it is to make, and it’s perfect for when you’re craving something bold on a cool fall night. One try, and you’ll be hooked.
Get the Recipe: Szechuan Shrimp

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