Updated lazy dinner classics are the best of both worlds: they’re quick and easy, just like the comfort food your grandma used to make, but with a fresh, modern spin that keeps things interesting. Think of it as a handshake between generations, where old-school charm meets new-school flair. Whether you’re pressed for time after a long day or just not in the mood to spend hours in the kitchen, these 17 recipes are great for anyone looking to whip up something good without the hassle.
Shake and Bake Pork Chops
For an updated lazy dinner classic that’s both easy and quick, these Shake and Bake Pork Chops are just the thing. With a simple coating process and a short bake time, you can serve up pork chops that are crispy on the outside in 25 minutes. This dish is always a great option for weeknight meals when time is tight.
Get the Recipe: Shake and Bake Pork Chops
Cabbage and Sausage
This dish brings back the comforting vibe of mom’s kitchen in just 25 minutes. Mixing cabbage and sausage makes for a simple yet hearty meal, perfect for a quick dinner. Sprinkling herbs on top adds a little extra flavor without complicating things. It’s great for when you’re looking for something filling and want to kick back soon after. Straight from the pan, it hits the spot like those meals mom used to whip up. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to rewind to simpler times after a long day.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole
This one’s a throwback to those classic dinners but made faster for today’s pace. In less than an hour, you get a hearty casserole with noodles, tuna, and cheese. Just remember to use a pan that’s big enough so everything cooks up nicely. Throw some green beans on the side, and you’ve got a full-on meal that brings back all those familiar flavors. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re craving something nostalgic yet easy.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole
Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup
Have a slow cooker? Then you’re all set for a no-stress, super-rich split pea soup. Throw in the ingredients, pick your cooking time, and go about your day. Come dinner, you’ve got a pot of goodness waiting for you. It’s like magic — minimal work for a meal that’s packed with flavor. It’s perfect for those days when you want something comforting without spending much time in the kitchen. It also gives you that cozy feeling, just like grandma used to make.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
Here’s a quick, 30-minute casserole that updates a veggie favorite. Broccoli and cauliflower get a new lease on life with some cheese and bacon thrown into the mix. It’s an easy, appetizing way to get your greens. Plus, it’s got that comfort food vibe that makes you feel like you’re dining at mom’s kitchen table again. Don’t forget the bread for scooping up all that cheesy goodness. This dish is a surefire way to bring everyone to the table smiling and ready to dig in.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
Crock Pot Taco Soup
Imagine throwing a bunch of stuff into a crock pot and ending up with a delicious taco soup. That’s what this recipe is all about. Beans, corn, taco seasoning — 20 minutes of prep and then let it simmer. It’s great for busy folks who love coming home to a meal that’s ready to go. Top it with cheese and sour cream, and it’s like a hug in a bowl. And the best part? There’s almost always enough for seconds, making it a hit for anyone looking to unwind with a hearty, comforting meal.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Taco Soup
Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner
This is all about throwing sausages and whatever veggies you like on a sheet pan and baking them for 30 minutes. It’s a simple dinner that brings back memories of those hearty oven-baked meals but without all the work. Serving it right from the sheet pan keeps things super casual. Feel free to try different sausages or veggies whenever you want a change. It’s the perfect meal for when you’re looking to take it easy but still eat well. Leftovers are great for lunch the next day; just pop them in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner
Broccoli Casserole
This Broccoli Casserole is straightforward and ready in 50 minutes. With just broccoli, cheese, and crackers, it’s a simplified version of the classic that’s still big on comfort. Perfect for those nights when you’re craving something hearty but easy. It reminds you of the baked dinners from your childhood, keeping traditions alive even on your laziest days. If you have any left, it stores well in the fridge and tastes just as good the next day.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole
Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole
Get a taste of classic stuffed peppers without all the work with this 45-minute Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole. It’s got beef, bell peppers, rice, and tomatoes, all the familiar flavors in an easy-to-make casserole. For a lighter take, switch out the beef for ground turkey or a meat substitute. It’s also easy to store and reheat, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Dish this casserole up hot from the oven in generous scoops, maybe alongside a crisp green salad or some garlic bread, to round out a hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole
Chicken Corn Soup
In less than an hour, you can enjoy this Chicken Corn Soup. It’s a bowl of chicken, corn, and veggies in a creamy broth, all made in one pot. The simplicity makes cooking and cleanup a breeze, and the comforting taste is unbeatable. It’s like getting a cozy hug in a bowl but with a quick and easy take. Add potatoes or swap the corn for your favorite veggie to keep it interesting. This soup keeps well in the fridge for a few days, so you can enjoy the flavors even longer.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Corn Soup
Spinach Chicken Bake
Just mix chicken, spinach, cheese, and spices, bake for 30 minutes, and voila! This Spinach Chicken Bake is a modern take on those beloved chicken dinners. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for relaxing in the evening. This dish brings back the best of mom’s cooking without all the effort. Try adding mushrooms or using kale instead of spinach for a different spin. Plus, it reheats beautifully, ensuring that leftovers taste great. Serve this comforting bake straight from the oven onto plates for a hearty meal. It pairs well with a side of roasted potatoes or a simple salad for a complete dinner.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Chicken Bake
Creamy Garlic Chicken
In just 30 minutes, this Creamy Garlic Chicken comes together in one pan. It’s chicken in a creamy garlic and Parmesan sauce, simple yet special for any night. It reminds you of those classic, comforting meals but is stress-free. Serve it over pasta or rice, and add some veggies like spinach or asparagus to mix things up. Leftover chicken can be easily stored and makes a great addition to salads or sandwiches for a quick meal. Try serving this chicken with quinoa or couscous instead of pasta or rice, and consider mixing in mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken
Italian Sausage Soup
Ready in 30 minutes, this Italian Sausage Soup mixes traditional flavors with quick, modern cooking. It’s got sausage, herbs, cream cheese, and tomatoes for a hearty and easy meal. Spice it up with some hot sausage, or throw in some kale for variety. Plus, it freezes well, so you can make a big batch and have it ready for whenever the craving hits.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sausage Soup
Fried Cabbage with Bacon
Fry up cabbage with bacon and onions for a simple, flavorful dish in just 25 minutes. It’s a great way to enjoy veggies and brings a bit of nostalgia with a modern spin. Make it even easier with pre-cooked bacon and pre-sliced cabbage. A dash of vinegar or sugar adds a nice sweet and tangy flavor to this quick meal. And if you have leftovers, they reheat well for a quick meal the next day. This dish serves four comfortably, so it’s perfect for family dinners or having enough for lunch leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon
Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice
This skillet meal is a healthier, 30-minute version of those classic beef and rice dishes. Using cauliflower rice makes it lighter but just as filling. It’s a quick, hearty meal that brings back memories of comforting beef dishes made mostly from a box, just a bit lighter and totally homemade. This dish is also great for leftovers; it keeps well in the fridge and reheats nicely for a stress-free meal later.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice
Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach
Whip up this cheesy beef casserole with cauliflower rice and spinach in 30 minutes for a comforting yet nutritious dish. It’s an easy way to enjoy a hearty meal filled with good stuff, just like mom used to make, but with less work. Serve it hot from the oven for a cozy, nostalgic meal. For a different take, try adding different spices or swapping the beef for ground turkey. Plus, it’s great for meal prep since it stores and reheats well, making those busy weeknights a bit easier.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach
Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup
This Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup is all about simplicity and nutrition, ready in about an hour with just a few ingredients. The combination of sweet potatoes and red peppers makes for a hearty soup that’s both comforting and slightly spicy, reminding you of the tomato soups and bisques mom used to simmer on the stove — but quicker for your busy schedule. Serve it with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of parsley to really make the flavors pop. It stores well in the fridge and can be easily reheated for a quick, healthy meal.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup