15 Easy Family Dinners That Get Everyone to the Table

Getting the whole family to the table can feel like a challenge some days. However, with the right dishes, it’s easy to make mealtime something everyone enjoys. These dinners can turn a regular evening into a fun, shared experience. Whether it’s a classic favorite or something new, the key is choosing meals that bring everyone together.

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Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage

Baked ziti is a family favorite that combines comforting pasta with savory sausage and melted cheese. The flavors meld together perfectly as it bakes in the oven, creating a deliciously hearty meal. This dish is great for feeding a crowd, and it’s easy to prepare in advance. Plus, it’s versatile, so you can add more vegetables or adjust the seasoning to your taste. It’s a simple yet filling meal that the whole family will love.

For this recipe, you will need 1 pound of ziti pasta, 1 pound of Italian sausage, 2 cups of marinara sauce, 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese, and one-half cup of grated Parmesan cheese. You will also need 1 tablespoon of olive oil for cooking. These ingredients come together to create a rich and satisfying meal that can easily be customized.

Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F. Next, cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions, drain, and set it aside. In a large pan, heat olive oil and cook the sausage until browned, then stir in the marinara sauce and ricotta cheese. In a baking dish, layer the pasta, sausage sauce, and mozzarella cheese, repeating until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of mozzarella on top. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.

Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry

Stir-fry is a great dinner option when you want something quick, healthy, and packed with flavor. Chicken, colorful veggies, and a savory sauce come together in a matter of minutes, making this an ideal weeknight meal. It’s customizable, so feel free to swap in your family’s favorite veggies. The high heat of stir-frying helps retain the vegetables’ crispness, while the chicken stays juicy and tender. This dish is sure to become a go-to family dinner.

For the stir-fry, gather 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced, 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, 1 red bell pepper, 1 cup of broccoli florets, 1 medium carrot (julienned), one-fourth cup of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 tablespoon each of minced garlic and grated ginger. These ingredients create a flavorful, balanced meal with the perfect mix of savory and slightly sweet notes.

Start by heating vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook until browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside, then add the bell pepper, broccoli, and carrot to the same pan. Stir-fry the veggies for 3 to 4 minutes, or until tender-crisp, then return the chicken to the pan. Add the soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger, stirring well to coat everything and cook for another 2 minutes, letting the sauce thicken.

Classic Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food, combining ground beef with a mix of vegetables and spices. It’s hearty, flavorful, and pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes, making it an easy family meal. This classic dish is simple to prepare and can be made ahead of time. Topped with a tangy glaze, it’s a satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy. Serve it alongside a green vegetable for a balanced dinner.

You’ll need 1 one-half pounds of ground beef, 1 small onion, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, 1 egg, 1 cup of milk, one-half cup of ketchup, and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Additionally, you’ll need salt and pepper to taste. These ingredients combine to create a savory, moist meatloaf that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes.

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and salt and pepper. Mix everything together until fully combined, then transfer the mixture into a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Bake the meatloaf for 1 hour, then top it with ketchup and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the glaze to set.

Roast Chicken with Roasted Vegetables

A whole roasted chicken is perfect for a family dinner because it’s simple, flavorful, and can feed several people. The crispy skin and tender meat make it a hit with both kids and adults. Roasting the chicken with vegetables adds flavor to the entire dish. The vegetables soak up the delicious chicken juices while they roast, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. This dinner requires minimal prep and results in maximum flavor.

For this meal, you will need a 4-pound whole chicken, 4 carrots, 2 potatoes, 1 onion, and 4 cloves of smashed garlic. You will also need 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of dried rosemary, along with salt and pepper to taste. These ingredients come together to create a flavorful roast that’s both easy and delicious.

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. Season the chicken with olive oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper, and place it in the center of a roasting pan. Arrange the carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic around the chicken. Roast for 1 hour and 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees F. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.

Beef Tacos with Fresh Toppings

Tacos are always a crowd-pleaser, especially when you offer a variety of toppings for everyone to customize their meal. Ground beef seasoned with spices creates a flavorful base, while fresh toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese add texture and freshness. This meal is quick to prepare and can be made into a fun, interactive dinner where everyone builds their own tacos. It’s a flexible dish that suits different tastes and is easy to make in large batches. Family members can create their own combinations for a meal that feels personalized.

Gather 1 pound of ground beef, 1 packet of taco seasoning, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 12 taco shells, 1 cup of shredded lettuce, 1 cup of diced tomatoes, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. You’ll also want sour cream, salsa, and guacamole for toppings. These ingredients provide the perfect base for a taco night the whole family will love.

In a skillet, heat the olive oil and cook the ground beef over medium-high heat. Add the taco seasoning and a bit of water, simmering for 5 minutes. Warm the taco shells in the oven according to the package instructions. Set up a taco bar with the beef, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and other toppings, allowing everyone to assemble their own tacos. This customizable dinner is perfect for family gatherings.

Spaghetti with Meatballs

Spaghetti with meatballs is a comforting classic that never goes out of style. The homemade meatballs are tender and flavorful, and when paired with rich marinara sauce, they create a satisfying meal. This dish is easy to make in large quantities, making it perfect for family dinners. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a side of garlic bread complete the meal, making it a well-rounded dinner. It’s a perfect dish for bringing everyone to the table, as it’s both filling and delicious.

Prepare 1 pound of ground beef, 1 egg, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, one-fourth cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 2 cups of marinara sauce, and 1 pound of spaghetti. Additionally, 1 tablespoon of olive oil is needed for cooking the meatballs. These ingredients create a rich, savory dish that pairs perfectly with pasta.

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. In a bowl, mix the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese, and form into meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes. Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. In a large pot, heat the marinara sauce and add the meatballs, simmering for 10 minutes before serving over the spaghetti.

Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Pulled pork is a great family meal that can be made in a slow cooker, making it easy to prepare. The pork is slow-cooked until it’s incredibly tender, then shredded and served on soft buns. Topped with coleslaw or pickles, this dish offers a perfect balance of savory and tangy flavors. It’s ideal for feeding a crowd and can be served with a variety of sides, from potato salad to baked beans. Plus, it’s simple enough to prepare for a New Year’s gathering.

For this pulled pork, you will need 2 pounds of pork shoulder, 1 onion, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 cup of barbecue sauce, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, and 8 hamburger buns. You may also want 1 cup of coleslaw. These ingredients come together to create a meal that’s both savory and satisfying, perfect for a crowd.

Place the pork shoulder, onion, and garlic in a slow cooker. Add the barbecue sauce and apple cider vinegar, and cover the slow cooker. Cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is tender enough to shred. Shred the pork using two forks and mix it with the sauce. Serve it on buns with a side of coleslaw if desired.

Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan is a family-friendly dinner that combines crispy breaded chicken with marinara sauce and melted cheese. The flavors are simple yet satisfying, and it pairs perfectly with pasta or a fresh salad. This dish is easy to prepare and can be made in advance, so it’s perfect for busy evenings. The crispy chicken cutlets provide a delicious contrast to the rich sauce and cheese. It’s a meal that everyone can enjoy, making it ideal for family gatherings.

You’ll need 4 boneless chicken breasts, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, 2 eggs, 2 cups of marinara sauce, 1 one-half cups of mozzarella cheese, and one-half cup of Parmesan cheese. These ingredients create a crispy, cheesy dish that is loved by all ages. You will also need some olive oil for frying.

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Dip the chicken breasts in egg and coat with breadcrumbs. Heat olive oil in a skillet and brown the chicken on both sides. Then, transfer the chicken to a baking dish, top with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, and bake for 25 minutes. Serve with pasta or a side salad for a complete meal.

Beef and Vegetable Stew

Beef stew is a filling and nutritious option for a New Year family dinner. The tender chunks of beef, combined with hearty vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and celery, create a satisfying meal. This dish is ideal for colder months and provides warmth and comfort. Slow-cooked to perfection, the stew allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and flavorful broth. It’s the perfect dinner to gather around on a chilly evening.

Gather 2 pounds of beef stew meat, 4 carrots, 4 dices potatoes, 2 stalks of celery, 1 onion, and 4 cups of beef broth. You will also need 1 tablespoon of flour to thicken the stew. These ingredients create a hearty and flavorful meal that warms you from the inside out.

Brown the beef stew meat in a large pot over medium heat. Then, add the carrots, potatoes, celery, and onion, stirring to combine. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Mix flour with water to thicken the stew, then cook for an additional 10 minutes until the desired consistency is reached.

Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup

Grilled cheese sandwiches paired with tomato soup is the ultimate comfort food combination. This classic meal is simple to make and loved by all ages. The crispy, buttery bread and melted cheese are perfect alongside the warm, tangy soup. It’s a great family dinner, especially when you want something quick and satisfying. Plus, you can add a side salad for a more balanced meal.

You’ll need 8 slices of bread, 4 slices of cheddar cheese, 2 tablespoons of butter, 1 can of tomato soup, and 1 cup of milk. These ingredients combine to create the perfect cozy meal that’s simple yet satisfying. The bread and cheese come together to create a crispy and gooey sandwich, while the soup offers a creamy, comforting base.

Butter each slice of bread and place cheese between two slices. Grill the sandwich in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown on both sides. While grilling the sandwiches, heat the tomato soup in a saucepan with milk. Once the soup is warm, serve it alongside the grilled cheese sandwiches. Cut the sandwiches in half and enjoy the meal.

Lasagna with Ricotta and Ground Beef

Lasagna is a hearty meal that brings together layers of pasta, beef, and creamy ricotta cheese. The rich marinara sauce ties everything together, making each bite a burst of flavor. This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd and can be prepared in advance, allowing you to enjoy a hassle-free family dinner. It’s filling, comforting, and full of flavor, making it a favorite among families. Serve with a side of garlic bread and salad to complete the meal.

Gather 1 pound of ground beef, 1 package of lasagna noodles, 2 cups of ricotta cheese, 2 cups of mozzarella cheese, 1 jar of marinara sauce, and one-half cup of Parmesan cheese. These ingredients create the perfect layers of comfort, making the lasagna both satisfying and delicious.

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside. In a skillet, brown the ground beef, then stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 10 minutes. In a baking dish, layer noodles, ricotta, mozzarella, and beef sauce, repeating the layers until the dish is full. Top with Parmesan cheese and bake for 45 minutes.

Fajitas with Sauteed Peppers and Onions

Fajitas are a fun and flavorful meal that’s perfect for family dinners. The sizzling beef or chicken is served with sauteed peppers and onions, offering a savory mix of flavors. With a variety of toppings like guacamole, salsa, and sour cream, fajitas can be customized to suit everyone’s tastes. It’s easy to prepare and quick to cook, making it ideal for a busy weeknight. Plus, it’s a meal that everyone can enjoy assembling themselves, adding a personal touch to the dining experience.

Prepare 1 pound of chicken breasts or beef strips, 2 bell peppers, 1 onion, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and 1 packet of fajita seasoning. You will also need 8 flour tortillas, salsa, sour cream, guacamole, and shredded cheese for toppings. These ingredients combine to create a flavorful meal that can be easily adapted to your family’s preferences.

Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken or beef and cook until browned. Add the sliced peppers, onions, and fajita seasoning, and saute for 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Warm the tortillas in the oven, then serve the sizzling fajitas with toppings like salsa, sour cream, and guacamole. Let everyone assemble their fajitas and enjoy!

Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Chicken Alfredo is a creamy and indulgent meal that combines tender chicken with a rich Alfredo sauce. The creamy sauce, made with butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, coats the pasta perfectly, making each bite a treat. This dish is simple to make and can be a hit with both kids and adults. Pair it with a fresh green salad for a complete meal that everyone will love. It’s a quick and satisfying dinner that brings everyone together.

Gather 2 chicken breasts, 1 pound of fettuccine pasta, 1 cup of heavy cream, one-half cup of butter, 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 2 cloves of minced garlic. You’ll also need olive oil and salt, and pepper to taste. These ingredients come together to create a rich, creamy dish that’s perfect for a family dinner.

Start by cooking the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside. In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook the chicken breasts until browned and cooked through, then slice into strips. In the same skillet, melt butter and saute garlic for 1 minute before adding the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce thickens, then toss in the cooked pasta and chicken. Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan on top.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are a nutritious and filling meal that can be made with ground beef, rice, and a mix of seasonings. The peppers hold everything together while adding a sweet and savory flavor. This dish is easy to prepare and can be customized with different fillings like vegetables or cheese. It’s a great meal for a family because it’s simple to make and doesn’t require much cleanup. Plus, it’s a fun way to incorporate more vegetables into the meal.

For the stuffed peppers, you will need 4 bell peppers, 1 pound of ground beef, 1 cup of cooked rice, 1 cup of diced tomatoes, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. You’ll also need 1 cup of shredded cheese for topping. These ingredients come together to create a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove the seeds. In a skillet, cook the ground beef until browned, then add the rice, tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasoning. Stuff the peppers with the beef mixture and place them in a baking dish. Top with shredded cheese and bake for 25 minutes.

Pasta Primavera

Pasta Primavera is a light and refreshing dish filled with colorful vegetables and tossed in a light sauce. The fresh vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes, are sauteed until tender, then mixed with cooked pasta. It’s a great option for a healthy family dinner that’s full of flavor and easy to prepare. This dish can be served warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for any time of the year. Plus, it’s versatile, so you can easily change up the veggies to suit your taste.

For this dish, you will need 1 pound of pasta, 1 zucchini, 1 bell pepper, 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, 2 cloves of garlic, and 3 tablespoons of olive oil. You will also need one-half cup of Parmesan cheese for topping. These ingredients come together to create a healthy, flavorful meal that everyone will enjoy.

Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and saute garlic for 1 minute. Add the zucchini, bell pepper, and tomatoes, cooking for 5-7 minutes until tender. Toss the vegetables with the cooked pasta, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.