17 Family Recipes That Don’t Take All Day To Make

When life gets busy, finding time for a home-cooked meal can be a challenge. But who says quick meals can’t be filled with the warmth of family traditions? Here’s a treasure trove of 17 family recipes that bring comfort and joy to the table without keeping you in the kitchen all day.

A bowl of skillet gnocchi with sausage and broccoli rabe.
Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken Piccata

Two chicken piccata on a white plate with parsley and lemon wedges.
Chicken Piccata. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Look no further if you’re after something that feels upscale without spending all evening in the kitchen. Chicken Piccata offers a light yet flavorful option with its unique tangy sauce. It turns an ordinary chicken dinner into a refined meal suitable for weeknights and special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

Pizza Casserole

Pizza Casserole in 2 black dishes.
Pizza Casserole. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Combining two favorites into one, it’s a crowd-pleaser that saves you time and wins big with the kids. Pizza Casserole turns your go-to pizza flavors into an easy-to-make dinner option. It’s perfect for those evenings when you crave something comforting, yet quick and hearty.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Casserole

Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

2 hands pulling a Chicken Al Pastor Quesadilla apart.
Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a twist on a classic, these quesadillas introduce a hint of sweetness to the savory notes we all love. Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas blend traditional and bold flavors, delivering a meal that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat. They’re a definite go-to for a fun and fast dinner your family will always request.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

Zucchini & Walnut Muffins

Zucchini muffins on a black plate.
Zucchini & Walnut Muffins. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Sometimes, sneaking veggies into our diet can also be a delightful treat. Zucchini & Walnut Muffins offer a nourishing snack or breakfast option, combining healthiness with sweetness. They bake quickly, making them convenient for busy mornings or as an on-the-go snack.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini & Walnut Muffins

4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken

4-ingredient slow cooker chicken on a platter.
4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Simplifying meal prep without sacrificing taste is the ultimate kitchen goal. 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken achieves just that, requiring minimal ingredients for a flavorful dish. It’s a hands-off meal that allows you to focus on other tasks while dinner cooks.
Get the Recipe: 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken

Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

A bowl of Mediterranean orzo salad on a black plate.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bringing the flavors of the Mediterranean to your table can be both effortless and quick. Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp is a light, refreshing choice that pairs well with any season. It’s flavorful and can serve as a side dish or a standalone meal.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

Beefy John Wayne Casserole

A slice of beefy John Wayne casserole on a plate.
Beefy John Wayne Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bringing a bit of the Wild West into your kitchen doesn’t have to be complicated. Beefy John Wayne Casserole is hearty and flavorful, making it an ideal choice for a family dinner. This dish is a nod to traditional American cuisine, with a simplicity that honors the legendary actor’s no-nonsense style.
Get the Recipe: Beefy John Wayne Casserole

Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops

Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops on a plate.
Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Set it and forget it with a dish that promises tenderness and taste. Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops are effortless to prepare, resulting in a juicy and satisfying meal. It’s the perfect solution for a fulfilling family dinner after a long day.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops

Chicken Zoodle Soup

Hands holding a bowl of Chicken Zoodle Soup.
Chicken Zoodle Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Who says comfort food can’t be healthy? Chicken Zoodle Soup offers a twist on a classic soup by substituting pasta with zucchini noodles, making it a lighter option. It’s a warm hug in a bowl, ideal for those chilly evenings or when you need a bit of comfort.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Zoodle Soup

Roast Pork with Apples

A plate of Pork Roast with Apples on a table.
Roast Pork with Apples. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sometimes, a classic combination is all it takes to create something spectacular. Roast Pork with Apples merges savory and sweet to perfection, providing a dish that’s as aromatic as it is delicious. This meal is a celebration of flavors, suitable for any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Roast Pork with Apples

Low-Carb Breakfast Sausage

A plate of breakfast Sausage Patties.
Low Carb Breakfast Sausage. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Starting the day right doesn’t always require bread or cereals. Low Carb Breakfast Sausage is a delicious way to keep your meals simple and satisfying, without the carbs. It’s a versatile option that pairs well with eggs or vegetables for a wholesome breakfast.
Get the Recipe: Low-Carb Breakfast Sausage

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

A plate of Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with asparagus.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Quick, simple, and utterly delicious, this dish is a weeknight lifesaver. Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are bursting with flavor and can be served in various ways, ensuring your dinner table is never boring. It’s a sure-fire hit that’s ready in no time, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Molly Bars

Four pieces of molly bars on a white plate.
Molly Bars. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

When dessert calls but time is short, these are your answer. Molly Bars blend simplicity with indulgence, creating a sweet treat that’s easy to make. They’re the perfect solution for last-minute guests or when you need a quick dessert fix.
Get the Recipe: Molly Bars

Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

2 black dishes with Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole in them.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

This is where comfort meets convenience in the kitchen. Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is a filling dish that combines familiar flavors in a new way. It’s a one-dish wonder that makes cleanup a breeze and dinner a hit.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Raspberry Crumb Cake

A piece of cranberry crumb cake on a plate.
Raspberry Crumb Cake. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

For those moments when only a cake will do, this offers a fruity twist. Raspberry Crumb Cake is delightful, balancing tartness and sweetness, ideal for teatime or as a dessert. It’s a comforting bake that promises to please any crowd, ready without keeping you in the kitchen all day.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Crumb Cake

Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe

A bowl of skillet gnocchi with sausage and broccoli rabe.
Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bringing a piece of Italy into your home has never been easier. Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe combines comfort with convenience, offering a dish rich in flavors and textures. It’s an all-in-one skillet meal that saves time without skimping on taste.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe

Turkey à la King

A plate with a Turkey à la King and salad on it.
Turkey à la King. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Reviving leftovers or creating a cozy meal, this dish excels at both. Turkey à la King transforms simple ingredients into a creamy, comforting dish that feels familiar and special. It’s a versatile recipe that can adapt to what you have on hand, making it a smart choice for using up leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Turkey à la King

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