31 Quick Family Dinners for When You Forgot to Defrost the Chicken
August means back-to-school buzz, hot weeknights, and zero time for complicated meals. That’s where these quick, family-friendly dinners come in—think creamy beef stroganoff, cheesy casseroles, and air fryer pork chops that cook in 20 minutes or less. You’ll find no-fuss meals packed with comfort, flavor, and just the right amount of nostalgia. Trust me—you’ll actually look forward to dinnertime again. Scroll through and pick tonight’s win.
Why I Still Make This Creamy Beef Stroganoff

There’s something about silky noodles coated in rich, savory sauce that hits just right after a long August day. This Creamy Beef Stroganoff with Ground Beef is a budget-friendly classic you can throw together in under 40 minutes—with pantry staples, no stress, and all the cozy vibes.
Get the Recipe: Why I Still Make This Creamy Beef Stroganoff
Quick & Juicy Boneless Pork Chops

These pan-fried pork chops are your weeknight savior—crispy-edged, juicy-centered, and bursting with herby flavor. They’re done in 20 minutes flat, right on the stovetop, with no breading or fuss. Serve with a simple salad or microwaved veggies and dinner’s on the table before the backpacks hit the floor.
Get the Recipe: Quick & Juicy Boneless Pork Chops
Air Fryer Bone-In Pork Chops Win Again

Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, these air fryer pork chops check every box for a stress-free, crowd-pleasing dinner. With smoky-sweet seasoning and 20-minute cook time, this one’s ideal for August weeknights when the oven’s off-limits.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Bone-In Pork Chops Win Again
Ground Meat Tacos That Never Miss

Taco night? Always a yes. This from-scratch taco meat recipe skips the packet and brings big, bold flavor with pantry spices you already have. Serve with your favorite toppings and watch the whole family dig in—no complaints, guaranteed.
Get the Recipe: Ground Meat Tacos That Never Miss
Crispy Cheesy Quesadillas Fritas

Think empanada meets melty quesadilla. These fried cheese-stuffed pockets are the ultimate kid-friendly dinner or after-school snack. Made with simple masa dough and customizable fillings, they bring the flavor of Mexican street food right to your table.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Cheesy Quesadillas Fritas
Easy French Onion Chicken Bake

This cozy casserole blends tender chicken thighs with caramelized onions and melted provolone in a one-pan masterpiece. It’s comfort food that tastes like you spent hours—but takes just minutes to prep. Perfect for August nights when you want easy and elegant all at once.
Get the Recipe: Easy French Onion Chicken Bake
Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Legs Tonight

Craving that crispy-skin magic without turning on the oven? These air fryer chicken legs deliver big flavor with almost no prep. Juicy, golden, and totally kid-approved—it’s a weeknight dinner win.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Legs Tonight
No-Bake Shepherd’s Pie Shortcut

No oven? No problem. This stovetop shepherd’s pie is hearty, cozy, and perfect for feeding a hungry crew in 30 minutes flat. With seasoned beef, creamy potatoes, and cheesy topping, it’s a back-to-school dinner that delivers.
Get the Recipe: No-Bake Shepherd’s Pie Shortcut
Copycat Herb-Crusted Chicken Hero

Skip the steakhouse and make this Texas Roadhouse-style herb-crusted chicken at home. It’s seared to juicy perfection with olive oil and pantry herbs. A fast, flavor-packed favorite that works for busy weeknights or a casual dinner with friends.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Herb-Crusted Chicken Hero
20-Minute Chipotle Sofritas At Home

Skip the line and make your own sofritas with bold, smoky tofu that cooks in just 20 minutes. Perfect for burrito bowls, tacos, or salads. Even meat-lovers will want seconds.
Get the Recipe: 20-Minute Chipotle Sofritas At Home
Pan-Seared Tilapia in Lemon Butter

Dinner in 10? This flaky tilapia with lemon butter sauce comes together fast with just a few fresh ingredients. It’s light, flavorful, and perfect for hot August nights when you need something easy but impressive.
Get the Recipe: Pan-Seared Tilapia With Lemon Butter
Sweet Potato Pasta That Hits Different

This creamy pasta with sweet potatoes, tofu, and bell peppers delivers rich flavor with a boost of veggies. It’s a weeknight win that’s fast, filling, and sneakily wholesome for back-to-school season.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Pasta That Hits Different
Spicy Thai Chicken on the Grill

Zesty, juicy, and finished with just the right heat, this grilled Thai chicken is your answer to flavorful weeknights. It’s bold, summery, and done in 30 minutes—perfect for tossing on the grill before the kids even ask, “What’s for dinner?”
Get the Recipe: Spicy Thai Chicken on the Grill
Seafood Boil the Easy Way

This Low Country Seafood Boil brings summer flavor to the table in just 10 minutes of prep. Toss shrimp, crab, and corn in a spicy garlic broth for a one-pot wonder your crew will devour—no fancy seafood skills required.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Boil the Easy Way
Super Easy Baked Turkey Pasta Casserole

This Baked Turkey Pasta Casserole recipe is quick and easy to make. You only need to combine all ingredients in a baking dish, then bake for 20 minutes. This makes the baked pasta perfect for a busy weeknight when your family craves a hearty meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Super Easy Baked Turkey Pasta Casserole
Skillet Smothered French Onion Pork Chops

French Onion Pork Chops are a savory, cheesy, one-pan meal that’s perfect for family dinners and gatherings. Made with juicy pork chops, caramelized onions, and a rich sauce, this dish brings warmth and flavor to your table. Try this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe today!
Get the Recipe: Skillet Smothered French Onion Pork Chops
Juicy Oven Pork Chops with Potatoes: Easy Sheet Pan Dinner

Oven pork chops with potatoes is a savory, sheet pan dinner that’s quick and beginner-friendly. Made with pantry spices and golden roasted ranch potatoes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Enjoy this hearty meal with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor around your table.
Get the Recipe: Juicy Oven Pork Chops with Potatoes: Easy Sheet Pan Dinner
Zesty Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken You’ll Love

Easy to make baked lemon pepper chicken is a flavorful and healthy dish that combines the zesty brightness of lemon, mellow baked garlic, and the slightly spicy taste of black pepper.
Get the Recipe: Zesty Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken You’ll Love
Creamy Overload Baked Chicken Potato Casserole

This loaded baked chicken potato casserole recipe uses simple ingredients like baked potatoes, chicken, and seasonings. Top it with bacon and cheese, and you’ll have a satisfying meal that offers a flavorful feast in your mouth!
Get the Recipe: Creamy Overload Baked Chicken Potato Casserole
Spicy Garlic-Honey Chicken Recipe

Juicy, succulent pieces of chicken cook up in a spicy honey sauce for a quick weeknight dinner that’s certain to be a hit. This easy dinner recipe is prepared using simple ingredients in less than 20 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Garlic-Honey Chicken Recipe
Quick Pulled BBQ Chicken Recipe

This quick and flavorful Instant Pot pulled BBQ chicken recipe is perfect for sandwiches, BBQ plates, or tacos, ready in just 30 minutes and an excellent addition to your dinner recipes.
Get the Recipe: Quick Pulled BBQ Chicken Recipe
Eggplant and Beef Meatballs Recipe

Your family will applaud your dinner when you make this delicious Eggplant and Beef Meatballs Recipe.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant and Beef Meatballs Recipe
Southern Low Country Seafood Boil

Easy Southern Instant Pot Low Country Boil recipe takes under 10 min. of prep time & turns out a slightly spicy, very juicy one-pot dinner.
Get the Recipe: Southern Low Country Seafood Boil
Ham & Cheese Croissants in a Snap

Flaky, melty, and sweet-savory thanks to a homemade honey mustard glaze, these ham and cheese croissants are a fast favorite. Toast them on a sheet pan and you’ve got a crowd-pleaser in under 20 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Ham & Cheese Croissants in a Snap
Fast & Cozy Veggie Stew

This Instant Pot Vegetable Stew is a cozy, budget-friendly lifesaver for meatless Mondays. Loaded with chickpeas, carrots, and green beans in a rich tomato broth—it’s hearty, quick, and perfect for busy August nights.
Get the Recipe: Fast & Cozy Veggie Stew
Cheesy Beefy Mexican Casserole

This cheesy Mexican casserole with ground beef is pure comfort layered with tortillas, beans, and creamy enchilada sauce. One dish, tons of flavor, and ready in a snap.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beefy Mexican Casserole
Quick Homemade Taco Meat Fix

Ditch the packets and make your own quick taco meat that’s way more flavorful. Great for tacos, nachos, or burrito bowls—and ideal for prepping ahead during back-to-school season.
Get the Recipe: Quick Homemade Taco Meat Fix
Sloppy Joe Casserole with a Twist

This isn’t your average sloppy joe. Topped with cheesy cornbread and packed with savory beef, this comforting casserole is fast, fun, and feeds the whole crew with ease.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole with a Twist
Instant Pot Coconut Jasmine Rice

Creamy, fragrant, and made in one pot, this coconut jasmine rice is the ultimate side dish. Pair it with grilled chicken, veggies, or eat it straight from the bowl—we won’t judge.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Coconut Jasmine Rice
Meatball Stroganoff (Without Canned Soup!)

Skip the soup cans—this meatball stroganoff is made from scratch with a creamy, tangy sauce and wide noodles. It’s still weeknight-easy but tastes like a total flex.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Stroganoff (Without Canned Soup!)
Crispy Sesame Beef Recipe

Sticky, crispy, and packed with savory sesame flavor, this beef stir-fry ditches the delivery fees and satisfies fast. Perfect for a Friday night in with the fam.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Sesame Beef Recipe
30 Favorite Recipes I Found In My Grandma’s Church Cookbook

You know the kind—handwritten notes in the margins, food stains on every page, and a chapter on casseroles alone. I found my grandma’s old church cookbook, and let me tell you—these recipes still hit. Think potato salads, baked casseroles, banana pudding bars, and that oatmeal cookies no one admits to loving (but they do). Perfect for July potlucks, church picnics, or backyard reunions—trust me, you’ll want them all. Let’s dig into these timeless classics. Get All The Recipes: 30 Favorite Recipes I Found In My Grandma’s Old Church Cookbook