After a long day, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. If you’re too tired to cook and need a meal that’s easy to make, you’re in the right place. Here are 13 dinner ideas perfect for those nights when you want something tasty but don’t feel like cooking. These simple recipes will help you get dinner on the table without the hassle.

Crockpot Chili. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.
Crockpot Carnitas

Crockpot carnitas are a fantastic choice for an easy dinner that doesn’t take much time to prepare. Just add everything to the slow cooker and let it do the work. This flavorful shredded meat is perfect for tacos or burritos, making it a hit with everyone.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Carnitas
Semi-Homemade Chicken Enchiladas

Semi-homemade chicken enchiladas are great for lazy nights when cooking seems like too much. Using rotisserie chicken saves time while still delivering a big flavor that everyone will love. This recipe makes it easy to enjoy a tasty meal without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Semi-Homemade Chicken Enchiladas
Tuna and Tomato Pasta

Tuna and tomato pasta is a simple yet satisfying meal perfect for busy evenings. It’s quick to make and packed with protein, ensuring no one stays in the kitchen for too long. This dish shows that tasty meals can be both easy and filling.
Get the Recipe: Tuna and Tomato Pasta
Slow Cooker Thai Pork

Slow cooker Thai pork takes the stress out of dinner prep with minimal effort required. Just toss the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it create a mouthwatering dish. This flavorful meal is sure to be a crowd-pleaser for any dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Thai Pork
Canned Chicken Salad

Canned chicken salad is a quick and easy recipe that is perfect when cooking feels like too much. It combines tender chicken with fresh veggies to create a light and tasty dish that hits the spot. This meal makes weeknight dinners both simple and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Canned Chicken Salad
Slow Cooker Garlic Roast Pork

Slow cooker garlic roast pork transforms a basic piece of meat into a tender, flavorful meal with little effort. Just season the pork and let the slow cooker work its magic, resulting in a dish that feels special without taking up much time.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Garlic Roast Pork
Crockpot Chili

Crockpot chili is a hearty meal that requires minimal effort to prepare, making it an excellent option for busy nights. Combine the ingredients, set the slow cooker, and relax while it does all the work. This filling dish is perfect when time is tight.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Chili
Cacio e Pepe

Cacio e pepe pasta is a cheesy and satisfying dish that comes together in just 15 minutes. With only a few ingredients, it’s both delicious and easy to make, ensuring less stress on busy nights. This meal allows for more time to relax while enjoying great flavors.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe
Italian Meatball Soup

Italian meatball soup is comforting and simple to prepare, making it a great choice for a filling meal. Hearty ingredients come together for a satisfying dish that warms the heart. Enjoying this soup feels like having a taste of home without the effort.
Get the Recipe: Italian Meatball Soup
Creamy Pea Pasta

Creamy pea pasta is a quick and delicious option that pleases everyone at the table. With a fast preparation time, it’s loaded with flavor and comfort, making weeknight meals feel special without any fuss. This dish proves that simple can be satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pea Pasta
Tomato Lime Chicken

Tomato lime chicken is versatile and easy to make, with bright flavors that shine through. It can be served in tacos, salads, or over rice, offering plenty of options for a tasty meal. Preparing this dish turns an ordinary night into something a bit more enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Lime Chicken
Weeknight Lasagna Roll-Ups

Lasagna roll-ups are a fun twist on a classic that everyone loves. They are quick to prepare and bake, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy and full. Enjoying these roll-ups makes dinner feel like a special treat without a lot of work.
Get the Recipe: Weeknight Lasagna Roll-Ups
Pesto Salmon

Pesto salmon brings flavor to a simple meal with minimal prep time needed. It cooks quickly, making it perfect for busy evenings when time is tight. Serving this dish guarantees a delicious dinner that doesn’t require much hassle.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Salmon