Best 2 Busy Day Dinner Recipes

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In the whirlwinds of a frenzied day, when the demands of work, family, and other commitments leave you pressed for time, a wholesome and delectable dinner might seem like an unattainable luxury. However, with careful planning and clever recipe choices, you can transform your hectic evenings into culinary adventures without compromising on taste or nutrition. Discover a collection of quick and easy recipes designed to nourish and satisfy, providing you with delectable meals that fit seamlessly into your busy lifestyle. These recipes utilize simple ingredients, require minimal preparation, and offer maximum flavor. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a culinary novice, these dishes will become your go-to solutions for creating delicious dinners amidst the chaos of a busy day.

Let's cook with our recipes!

BUSY-DAY DINNER



Busy-Day Dinner image

I have used this recipe for over 30 years because it is delicious and so easy to make. You can mix it up in an electric skillet or on your stovetop. Kids love the tomato flavor and the crunch of the celery.

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Dinner

Time 50m

Yield 6 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 11

1 pound ground beef
1 package (7 ounces) elbow macaroni, cooked and drained
1 cup finely chopped celery
1 cup chopped green pepper
1 cup finely chopped onion
2 cups thinly sliced carrots
1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon chili powder

Steps:

  • In a large saucepan, cook beef over medium heat until no longer pink; drain. Add the remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil over medium heat; reduce heat and simmer gently, covered, for 30 minutes. Add water if a thinner stew is desired.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 312 calories, Fat 8g fat (3g saturated fat), Cholesterol 37mg cholesterol, Sodium 896mg sodium, Carbohydrate 40g carbohydrate (10g sugars, Fiber 5g fiber), Protein 21g protein.

BUSY DAY SPAGHETTI DINNER



Busy Day Spaghetti Dinner image

I originally found this recipe in our local paper. After a few additions and substitutions, it became my family's favorite. I prepare it at least twice a month.-Gloria Handley, Phoenix, Arizona

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Dinner

Time 30m

Yield 4-6 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 9

1 pound ground beef
1/4 cup chopped onion
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
Dash garlic powder
1 can (19 ounces) ready-to-serve chunky beef vegetable soup
4 ounces spaghetti, cooked and drained
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Minced fresh parsley, optional

Steps:

  • In a skillet, cook beef and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Stir in salt, pepper and garlic powder. Transfer to a greased 2-qt. baking dish. Pour soup over meat mixture. Top with spaghetti and cheese. , Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Sprinkle with parsley if desired.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 305 calories, Fat 14g fat (7g saturated fat), Cholesterol 57mg cholesterol, Sodium 779mg sodium, Carbohydrate 23g carbohydrate (3g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 21g protein.

Tips:

  • Meal Prep: Save time during the week by prepping ingredients or even entire meals in advance.
  • Simple Ingredients: Choose recipes with easily accessible ingredients to make shopping and cooking easier.
  • One-Pot/Pan Meals: Opt for recipes that require minimal cookware, reducing cleanup time.
  • Versatile Ingredients: Use ingredients that can be used in multiple dishes to minimize waste and maximize flavor.
  • Quick Cooking Methods: Utilize techniques like stir-frying, grilling, or sheet-pan roasting for speedy cooking.
  • Make-Ahead Sauces: Prepare sauces or marinades ahead of time to enhance flavors while saving time.
  • Plan Leftovers: Consider recipes that yield leftovers for easy packed lunches or quick meals later in the week.

Conclusion:

With careful planning and smart recipe choices, busy individuals can create satisfying and nutritious meals that fit their hectic schedules. Prioritizing meal prep, utilizing simple ingredients, and opting for quick cooking methods can significantly reduce time spent in the kitchen. These recipes offer a variety of options to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences, making it easier to maintain a balanced and enjoyable diet amidst a busy lifestyle. Remember, cooking at home not only saves money but also allows for greater control over the quality and healthiness of the food consumed. Embrace the convenience of these recipes and enjoy delicious, home-cooked meals without sacrificing valuable time or compromising on taste.

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