23 Homemade Dinners That’ll Make You Forget About Ordering Takeout

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23 Homemade Dinners That’ll Make You Forget About Ordering Takeout

Homemade dinners have a special way of making the convenience of takeout seem unnecessary. These 23 great recipes are packed with flavors so good, you’ll be more than happy to skip the delivery apps. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight fix or a leisurely weekend feast, these meals are perfect for any occasion. They’re straightforward to make, require common ingredients, and are guaranteed to impress.

A pan with chicken, spinach and bacon in it.
Creamy Dijon Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Creamy Tuscan chicken in a skillet.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Kick takeout to the curb with Creamy Tuscan Chicken, ready in just 40 minutes. You’ll need chicken breasts, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and some cream to create this rich, creamy dish. It’s super straightforward: just cook the chicken, stir in the rest, and boom, dinner’s on the table. Perfect for a low-key night when you still want something good to eat. Serve it over a bed of pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making lunch prep a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Tuscan garlic shrimp and spinach with tomatoes in a pan.
Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

For a quick, flavorful dinner, try Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach. You just need shrimp, tomatoes, spinach, and coconut milk. Cook everything in one pan for about 30 minutes, and you’re done. This dish is a great way to enjoy a seafood feast without the hassle or the high takeout cost. It’s perfect served over pasta or with a side of garlic bread to mop up the sauce. Just remember, seafood is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Chicken Tortellini Soup

A bowl of chicken tortellini soup with vegetables and herbs.
Chicken Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Chicken Tortellini Soup makes homemade dinners a snap — it’s all done in one pot within 40 minutes. It’s a great pick for those evenings when you need something hearty and nourishing, and it’s sure to make you pass on ordering out.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortellini Soup

Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon

Roasted butternut squash with cauliflower and bacon and dollops of sour cream with a spoon.
Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon needs minimal prep. Busy night? No problem. Chop your veggies, toss them in a pan with bacon, and roast. It’s that easy. This dish is a solid pick for a flavorful dinner that’s healthier and more filling than anything in a takeout box. Try it as a side dish or mix it into a salad for a lighter option. Cool leftovers quickly and store them in the fridge for up to 5 days; they’re great for adding to salads or as a side.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon

Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

Two bowls of sweet potato and red pepper soup with sour cream and parsley.
Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Cozy up with Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup, a simple combination of sweet potatoes, red peppers, broth, and spices that cooks up in less than an hour. Just simmer everything together, blend until smooth, and you’ve got a comforting bowl of soup. It’s the kind of easy, feel-good food that’ll make you skip the takeout menu. Serve with a dollop of sour cream and some fresh herbs for an extra touch of flavor. This soup freezes beautifully, so make a big batch and save some for a rainy day.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

White Bean Soup

A bowl of white bean soup with carrots and croutons.
White Bean Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Whip up this White Bean Soup in a single pot in under 40 minutes for a homemade dinner that always impresses. It’s a straightforward, veggie-rich meal that’s perfect for those nights when you want a filling dinner without the hassle of takeout.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup

Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Chicken with creamy mushroom sauce in a pan.
Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Ready in 30 minutes, Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce is a quick fix for a filling dinner. You’ll need chicken thighs, mushrooms, and cream for the sauce. Just cook the chicken, sauté the mushrooms, add cream, and let it all come together. It’s a no-hassle dish that beats takeout any day. A side of steamed green beans or roasted carrots would complement it nicely. The sauce and chicken can be stored separately or together in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Get the Recipe: Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Creamy Dijon Chicken

A pan filled with a creamy sauce with chicken, bacon, and spinach.
Creamy Dijon Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Get a cozy dinner on the table fast with Creamy Dijon Chicken, which only takes 30 minutes from start to finish. Grab some chicken, Dijon mustard, spinach, and bacon to whip up this comforting meal. Cook the chicken, mix in the sauce ingredients, and finish with spinach and bacon for a dish that’s seriously good. It’s fast food, but not the kind you’re used to. Pair it with a side of mashed potatoes or rice to complete the meal. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for quick meals during the week.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Dijon Chicken

Sausage Curry

A bowl of rice and sausage curry on a table.
Sausage Curry. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Mix things up with Sausage Curry, a one-pan meal that’s ready in no time. You’ll need sausage, your favorite curry spices, and some veggies. Cook the sausage, add spices, toss in the veggies, and let it simmer. It’s a stress-free dish that adds some spice to your dinner routine, keeping things interesting and homemade. Serve it hot over a bed of fluffy rice or with naan bread on the side. This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days and tastes even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Curry

Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

A pot of soup with parmesan cheese and parsley.
Creamy Italian Sausage Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy Creamy Italian Sausage Soup, a rich mix of Italian sausage, tomatoes, and cream cheese. This soup is a quick, hearty option for dinner, perfect for those busy nights. It’s an excellent homemade alternative to takeout, easy to prepare, and full of flavor. Serve this comforting soup with a sprinkle of Parmesan and a side of crispy baguette for dipping. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it a great choice for meal prep. Plus, it can be frozen for those days you need a quick meal without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Spinach Chicken Bake

A serving spoon serving of creamy spinach chicken bake.
Spinach Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Spinach Chicken Bake comes together with just chicken, spinach, cream cheese, and mozzarella. Mix everything in a pan and bake for 30 minutes. It’s the epitome of easy but appetizing cooking, showing you can have a great meal without the wait or the work. Say hello to chill evenings with good food. This bake goes great with a simple side salad for a complete meal. Leftovers are great for lunch the next day, just store them covered in the fridge.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Chicken Bake

Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Twice baked potato casserole with bacon and green onions.
Twice Baked Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Twice Baked Potato Casserole combines bacon, potatoes, sour cream, and cheddar cheese into a comforting dish, great for any dinner. It showcases how easy it is to create delicious meals at home. This casserole is perfect on its own or served with a side of greens for a balanced meal. After baking, let it cool completely before storing it in the fridge, where it keeps well for up to 3 days. It’s a fantastic dish for anyone looking to reduce their takeout habits.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Loaded broccoli cauliflower casserole in a baking dish garnished with green onions.
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

The Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole is a 30-minute dish that’s perfect for a filling meal, combining broccoli, cauliflower, rich cheese sauce, and bacon. It’s an easy yet interesting way to encourage more homemade meals, proving that great food doesn’t have to be complicated. This casserole is all about enjoying the process of cooking and the delicious results. Serve it with your favorite protein for a complete meal, or enjoy it as is. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, making this casserole a great option for quick sides or lunches throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Hungarian Mushroom Soup

A bowl of Hungarian mushroom soup with a gold spoon.
Hungarian Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Hungarian Mushroom Soup is a comforting, one-pot meal that you can have ready in just 45 minutes. It’s the perfect choice for a cozy meal at home, especially on those chilly evenings. This soup is rich in flavor and pairs well with crusty bread for dipping. It simplifies cleanup and maximizes comfort, making it much easier to choose homemade over takeout. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring a quick and comforting meal is always within reach.
Get the Recipe: Hungarian Mushroom Soup

Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken

A skillet of creamy sun dried tomato chicken with a wooden spoon.
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken is a quick, 30-minute recipe that’s both good for everyday meals and impressive enough for guests. It features chicken and sun-dried tomatoes in a creamy sauce, demonstrating that you don’t need a lot of time to make something special. This dish is fantastic for those looking to enjoy great food at home without waiting. Serve it with pasta or rice to soak up the delicious sauce. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the fridge, making this dish perfect for meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken

Keto Zuppa Toscana

Two bowls of soup with bacon and kale.
Keto Zuppa Toscana. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Keto Zuppa Toscana is a deliciously hearty soup that takes about an hour to prepare, inspired by the classic Olive Garden favorite. Using sausage, radishes instead of potatoes, and cream, this version keeps it interesting and keto-friendly. It’s a comforting choice for chilly evenings, perfect for when you’re craving something hot and filling. Serve this soup with a side salad for a complete meal. Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great meal prep option for the week.
Get the Recipe: Keto Zuppa Toscana

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Stuffed bell pepper casserole in a pan with a wooden spoon.
Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole is an easy, 45-minute dish that packs all the classic flavors of stuffed peppers into a simple casserole form. It’s a filling, flavorful dinner option that simplifies mealtime without sacrificing taste. This casserole is great on its own or with a side of crusty bread for an extra treat. It’s a lovely way to enjoy a homemade dinner that feels like a treat rather than a chore. You can store this casserole in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring you have leftovers ready to go.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Cabbage and Sausage

A pan of cabbage and sausage garnished with fresh herbs.
Cabbage and Sausage. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Cabbage and Sausage is a quick, one-pan meal ready in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for a hassle-free dinner. This dish combines the simplicity of cooking with the satisfaction of a homemade meal, featuring just a few ingredients but lots of flavors. It’s an excellent choice for a no-hassle dinner, ensuring you can enjoy a hearty meal any night of the week. Serve it with mashed potatoes, or enjoy it as is for a complete meal. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, making this dish a convenient option for quick meals.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage

Chicken Corn Soup

Two bowls of chicken corn soup garnished with parsley.
Chicken Corn Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Prepare a pot of Chicken Corn Soup in under an hour for a simple yet comforting meal that combines chicken, corn, and vegetables. This soup is easy to make and doesn’t require a lot of time, making it a perfect solution for a homemade meal on busy nights. It’s a good way to enjoy a cozy, comforting meal without the hassle. Serve with crusty bread for the perfect complement. This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, ensuring you have a quick and comforting meal ready whenever you need it.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Corn Soup

Fajita Baked Chicken

Cheesy chicken fajita bake in a baking pan.
Fajita Baked Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Fajita Baked Chicken is a 30-minute, one-pan dish that brings together seasoned chicken breasts, cream cheese, mini sweet peppers, and mozzarella for a cozy and flavorful dinner. This recipe is all about enjoying good food at home with minimal effort, proving that great flavors don’t require complex cooking. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something delicious but don’t want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. Serve it with tortillas or over rice to make it even more filling. Leftovers store well in the fridge for a good lunch option tomorrow.
Get the Recipe: Fajita Baked Chicken

Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts

Creamy chicken thighs with artichoke hearts in a pan.
Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts can be served in just 30 minutes, making it a fast and comforting option for dinner. This dish combines tender chicken thighs with artichoke hearts in a creamy sauce. A quick yet delicious meal. It’s perfect for those evenings when time is short, but you still want something flavorful. Serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or over pasta to complete the meal. The dish keeps well in the fridge, so you can enjoy the leftovers for another meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts

Creamy Garlic Chicken

A white skillet of creamy garlic chicken garnished with herbs.
Creamy Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Garlic Chicken is an easy-to-prepare dish, perfect for those busy nights when you need a comforting meal without a lot of hassle. This recipe features chicken in a rich garlic sauce, showcasing how quick and straightforward it can be to enjoy a delicious dinner at home. It’s an excellent way to whip up a comforting meal swiftly, ensuring you can have a great dinner on the table in no time. Serve it over pasta or with a side of vegetables for a complete meal. Any leftovers can be refrigerated for dinner tomorrow.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

A fork is being used to take a piece of Philly cheese steak casserole out of a dish.
Philly Cheese Steak Casserole. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

In less than an hour, Philly Cheese Steak Casserole brings the beloved sandwich flavors into a comforting, easy-to-make casserole. It’s filled with sirloin steak, bell peppers, onions, and cheese, allowing you to enjoy the classic taste with less work. This dish is a top choice for those evenings when you’re looking for something special but want to stay in. Serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables to round out the meal. The casserole stores well in the fridge, keeping delicious leftovers that are easy to reheat.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

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