When you're short on time and wondering what's for supper, whip up one of these easy dinner recipes for family night. Recipes like mini meat loaf, pastas, tacos and so much more are each ready in 30 minutes or less!
30-Minute Meals Your Family Will Love
Updated on Sep. 16, 2024
Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta
I try to make foods that are not only kid friendly, but are also easy to reheat since my husband works long hours and often eats later than our children. If you like, use reduced-fat cheese and ground turkey for a lighter version. —Melissa Stevens, Elk River, Minnesota. Here are our kid-friendly dinner ideas that will please little ones and parents alike.
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Ham and Noodle Casserole
Total Time
55 min
Servings
3 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I created this recipe when I had leftover ham to use up. You'll find it's the perfect little casserole for any night of the week! —Laura Burgess, Mount Vernon, South Dakota
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 326 calories, 15g fat (7g saturated fat), 78mg cholesterol, 1086mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 20g protein.
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Tacos on a Stick
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Kids like assembling these creative kabobs almost as much as they like devouring them. The whole family is sure to love the sensational southwestern flavor of this twist on the classic beef shish kabobs. —Dixie Terry, Goreville, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 277 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 61mg cholesterol, 665mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 34g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 2 vegetable, 1 fat.
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Pork Piperade
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I like to spice up my meat dishes with peppers, and this Basque piperade—adapted from a Spanish recipe—is a family favorite. —Hyacinth Rizzo, Buffalo, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 414 calories, 24g fat (4g saturated fat), 67mg cholesterol, 720mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 4g fiber), 26g protein.
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Beef & Bacon Gnocchi Skillet
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This gnocchi dish tastes like a bacon cheeseburger. Go ahead and top it as you would a burger—with ketchup, mustard and pickles. —Ashley Lecker, Green Bay, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 573 calories, 31g fat (16g saturated fat), 136mg cholesterol, 961mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 36g protein.
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Pork with Mustard Sauce
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Back when I was a girl, I couldn't wait until I was grown up and could start cooking for my own family! Now that I am, I really enjoy using pork. The tender meat and the rich mustard sauce in this recipe are delectable together. —Irma Pomeroy, Enfield, Connecticut
Nutrition Facts:
2 slices pork with 3 tablespoons sauce: 292 calories, 21g fat (12g saturated fat), 119mg cholesterol, 311mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 24g protein.
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Chicken and Dumplings
Total Time
1 hour 35 min
Servings
8 servings (3 quarts)
From the Recipe Creator:
Homemade chicken and dumplings from scratch hearken back to my childhood and chilly days when we devoured those cute little balls of dough swimming in hot, rich broth. It's one of those types of soup you'll want to eat again and again. —Erika Monroe-Williams, Scottsdale, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 470 calories, 24g fat (8g saturated fat), 104mg cholesterol, 892mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 32g protein.
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Fajita Burger Wraps
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This combo gives you a tender burger, crisp veggies and a crunchy shell, plus fajita flavor. Kids love it. —Antonio Smith, Canal Winchester, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 wrap: 533 calories, 23g fat (9g saturated fat), 92mg cholesterol, 1190mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 34g protein.
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Swedish Meatballs
Total Time
1 hour 10 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Mom fixed this Swedish meatball recipe for all sorts of family dinners, potluck suppers and PTA meetings. The scent of browning meat is intoxicating. Add to that the sweet smell of onions caramelizing, and everyone’s mouth starts watering. —Marybeth Mank, Mesquite, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
6 meatballs with 1-3/4 cups noodles and about 1/3 cup gravy: 834 calories, 33g fat (14g saturated fat), 248mg cholesterol, 1711mg sodium, 81g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 4g fiber), 50g protein.
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Ground Pork Pasta
Total Time
30 min
Servings
5 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Some people call it dinner hour, but many of us call it rush hour. Slow down the pace with this so-simple mouthwatering ground pork meal. The only thing you'll have left over is time to share with your family at the table. —Brigitte Schaller, Flemington, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1.330 cups: 317 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 61mg cholesterol, 408mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 21g protein.
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Bacon & Swiss Chicken Sandwiches
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I created this chicken sandwich recipe based on a meal my daughter ordered at a restaurant. She likes to dip her sandwich in the extra honey-mustard sauce. —Marilyn Moberg, Papillion, Nebraska
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 410 calories, 17g fat (6g saturated fat), 91mg cholesterol, 667mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 3g fiber), 34g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 2 starch, 2 fat.
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Breaded Pork Tenderloin
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Meat is a hard sell with my teenage daughter unless I make it look like a restaurant dish. Drizzle ranch dressing or barbecue sauce on top and it's a home run. —Donna Carney, New Lexington, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
3 ounces cooked pork: 338 calories, 20g fat (3g saturated fat), 110mg cholesterol, 327mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 26g protein.
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Mozzarella Beef Roll-Ups
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
The kids will love these pepperoni and beef wraps. They're easy to assemble because each tortilla is simply wrapped around a portion of hearty meat filling with a piece of string cheese. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 roll-up: 513 calories, 25g fat (11g saturated fat), 71mg cholesterol, 1064mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 30g protein.
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Meat Loaf Muffins
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Serve these tangy meat loaf muffins for dinner or slice them up for a take-along sandwich lunch. They're just as flavorful after freezing. —Cheryl Norwood, Canton, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
2 mini meat loaves: 260 calories, 11g fat (4g saturated fat), 102mg cholesterol, 350mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 1g fiber), 24g protein.
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Chicken & Cheese Tortilla Pie
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Trust me when I say this hearty dish can be assembled in minutes, then devoured even quicker with no leftovers. —Karen Kuebler, Dallas, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 498 calories, 27g fat (14g saturated fat), 122mg cholesterol, 889mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 37g protein.
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Meatball Stroganoff
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe has fed not only my own family, but many neighborhood kids! They come running when I make this supper. It's one of those things you throw together after work on a busy day because you know it works. —Julie May, Hattiesburg, Mississippi
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 717 calories, 57g fat (30g saturated fat), 172mg cholesterol, 1291mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 20g protein.
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Nacho Pie
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 462 calories, 24g fat (7g saturated fat), 59mg cholesterol, 841mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 6g fiber), 26g protein.
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Honey-Mustard Brats
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Our honey mustard glaze gives every bite of these brats a sweet and punchy flavor. Everyone who tries them agrees they're delicious. —Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 624 calories, 35g fat (10g saturated fat), 65mg cholesterol, 1531mg sodium, 58g carbohydrate (23g sugars, 1g fiber), 20g protein.
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Waffle-Iron Pizzas
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
These little pizza pockets put together using the waffle maker are a fun mashup. Try your favorite toppings or even breakfast fillings like ham and eggs. —Amy Lents, Grand Forks, North Dakota
Nutrition Facts:
1 pizza (calculated without sauce): 461 calories, 21g fat (8g saturated fat), 28mg cholesterol, 1650mg sodium, 50g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 19g protein.
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Cider-Glazed Pork Tenderloin
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This is a super easy recipe full of sweet fall flavor. The maple flavor really shines through. —Susan Stetzel, Gainesville, New York
Nutrition Facts:
3 ounces cooked pork with 1 tablespoon glaze: 239 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 64mg cholesterol, 200mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (17g sugars, 0 fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 fat.
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Chicken-Pepper Alfredo
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
When I want a lighter dinner, I use lean turkey bacon in this recipe. It gives the pasta that richness you want without all the extra fat. —Courtney Harris, Denton, Texas
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Shortcut Sausage Jambalaya
Total Time
20 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Secret ingredient alert: A pinch of coffee crystals gives my jambalaya its roasty, toasty flavor. This quick and easy dinner is one of my husband’s top picks. —Betty Henagin, Medford, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 297 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 70mg cholesterol, 1398mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 18g protein.
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Chicken Parm Sandwich
Total Time
25 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Coat tender chicken breasts with seasoned bread crumbs and smother in marinara sauce. Served on a hoagie, they're a real treat! —Sue Bosek, Whittier, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 669 calories, 32g fat (10g saturated fat), 198mg cholesterol, 1124mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 48g protein.
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White Cheddar Mac and Cheese
Total Time
25 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My mac and cheese is simple and has lots of flavor from the cheeses and ground chipotle chile. I use conchiglie pasta because its shape allows more melted cheese to pool inside. Yum! —Colleen Delawder, Herndon, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 650 calories, 35g fat (22g saturated fat), 101mg cholesterol, 607mg sodium, 55g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 2g fiber), 27g protein.
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Easy Chicken Fried Rice
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
After my first child was born, I needed meals that were satisfying and fast. This easy chicken fried rice is now part of our regular dinner rotation. — Alicia Gower, Auburn, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 548 calories, 25g fat (5g saturated fat), 163mg cholesterol, 934mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 38g protein.
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Pork & Mango Stir-Fry
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
A recipe is special when everyone in your family raves about it. My finicky eaters each give a thumbs-up for this hearty, nutty stir-fry. —Kathleen Specht, Clinton, Montana
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups pork mixture with 3/4 cup pasta: 515 calories, 16g fat (3g saturated fat), 64mg cholesterol, 553mg sodium, 58g carbohydrate (23g sugars, 6g fiber), 36g protein.
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Garlic Bread Pizza
Total Time
15 min
Servings
8 pieces
From the Recipe Creator:
Between working full-time, going to school and raising three children, finding time-saving recipes that my family likes is one of my biggest challenges. These quick pizzas pack a huge amount of flavor. —Amy Grim, Chillicothe, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 281 calories, 20g fat (8g saturated fat), 58mg cholesterol, 610mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 12g protein.
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Steak Fajitas
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Zesty salsa and tender strips of steak make these traditional fajitas extra special. —Rebecca Baird, Salt Lake City, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
1 fajita: 329 calories, 12g fat (4g saturated fat), 54mg cholesterol, 498mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 5g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 1/2 fat.
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Sausage Bow Tie Pasta
Total Time
25 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
We often have our favorite pasta when company comes over, and I’ve shared this Italian sausage recipe several times. Now many of my friends make it for their families, too. —Janelle Moore, Auburn, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
1-3/4 cups: 751 calories, 44g fat (21g saturated fat), 119mg cholesterol, 989mg sodium, 67g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 4g fiber), 23g protein.
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Lemon Rosemary Chicken
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This baked rosemary chicken with a tangy lemon sauce is my husband's favorite, and my sister always wants it for her birthday dinner. —Laurel Dalzell, Manteca, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken breast half with 1 tablespoon sauce: 252 calories, 16g fat (8g saturated fat), 93mg cholesterol, 355mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 24g protein.
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Italian Veggie Beef Soup
Total Time
30 min
Servings
12 servings (4 quarts)
From the Recipe Creator:
My sweet father-in-law, Pop Pop, would bring this chunky soup to our house when we were under the weather. We like it so much, we take it to our own friends who need comfort. It always does the trick. —Sue Webb, Reisterstown, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 159 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 38mg cholesterol, 646mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 4g fiber), 15g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1 vegetable, 1/2 starch.
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Flavorful Grilled Pork Tenderloin
Total Time
30 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Folks can find me grilling, no matter the weather. This moist pork tenderloin has loads of flavor thanks to its special spice blend, and it doesn't get much easier to make. My wife especially likes that she doesn't have to do the cooking! —Steve Ehrhart, Villa Park, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
3 ounces cooked pork: 135 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 64mg cholesterol, 416mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat.
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Dijon-Crusted Fish
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Dijon, Parmesan and a hint of horseradish give this toasty fish lots of flavor. The preparation is so easy, it takes just 5 to 7 minutes to get four servings ready for the oven. —Scott Schmidtke, Chicago, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 fillet: 214 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 80mg cholesterol, 292mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 28g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 4 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat, 1/2 starch.
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Weeknight Pasta Squiggles
Total Time
30 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This zesty pasta dish is ideal for busy weeknights. It contains just a few ingredients, is easy to prep, and tastes so comforting when the weather turns cool. A salad on the side makes this healthy pasta recipe a meal. —Stacey Brown, Spring, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 278 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 34mg cholesterol, 622mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 16g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 2-1/2 starch, 2 medium-fat meat.
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Chili Dog Pizza
Total Time
25 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My girls love it when I make this mash-up pizza with hot dogs and chili. It’s a marvelous way to use up leftover chili. —Jennifer Stowell, Smithville, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 404 calories, 25g fat (11g saturated fat), 54mg cholesterol, 1113mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 18g protein.
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Breaded Mustard & Sage Pork Cutlets
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
After attending my daughter's back to school night and receiving a complimentary package of instant potatoes, I had to make something with them. I created these pork cutlets and they were fantastic. —Carrie Farias, Oak Ridge, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
2 pork cutlets: 328 calories, 13g fat (3g saturated fat), 101mg cholesterol, 567mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch, 1 fat.
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Weekday Beef Stew
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Beef stew capped with flaky puff pastry adds comfort to the weeknight menu—my family is always glad to see this meal. Make a salad and call your crowd to the table. —Daniel Anderson, Kenosha, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups with 1 pastry round: 604 calories, 25g fat (8g saturated fat), 73mg cholesterol, 960mg sodium, 65g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 9g fiber), 32g protein.
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Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Orzo
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Broccoli and rice casserole tops my family's comfort food list, but when we need something fast, this is the stuff. Chicken and veggie orzo cooked on the stovetop speeds everything up. —Mary Shivers, Ada, Oklahoma
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 359 calories, 9g fat (4g saturated fat), 77mg cholesterol, 655mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 30g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
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Italian Pasta Bake
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I love to make this pasta bake whenever I need to bring a dish to pass. Fresh tomatoes add a nice touch that's missing from most other meat, pasta and tomato casseroles.—Karla Johnson, East Helena, Montana
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 489 calories, 20g fat (8g saturated fat), 80mg cholesterol, 702mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 5g fiber), 32g protein.
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One-Skillet Lasagna
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This is hands-down one of the best skillet lasagna recipes our testing panel has ever tasted. And with classic flavors and cheesy layers, it’s definitely kid-friendly. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 478 calories, 20g fat (8g saturated fat), 128mg cholesterol, 1552mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 4g fiber), 31g protein.
41/72
Lemon Chicken and Rice
Total Time
1 hour 10 min
Servings
2 casseroles (4 servings each)
From the Recipe Creator:
I couldn’t say who loves this recipe best, because it gets raves every time I serve it! Occasionally I even get a phone call or email from a friend requesting the recipe, and it's certainly a favorite for my grown children and 15 grandchildren. —Maryalice Wood, Langley, British Columbia
Nutrition Facts:
2 chicken thighs with 3/4 cup rice mixture: 624 calories, 26g fat (6g saturated fat), 173mg cholesterol, 754mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 53g protein.
42/72
Meatball Submarine Casserole
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
We were hosting a bunch of friends, and after a comedy of errors, I had to come up with a plan B for dinner. I realized that much-loved meatball subs are even better as a hearty casserole—so delicious! —Rick Friedman, Palm Springs, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 417 calories, 28g fat (13g saturated fat), 59mg cholesterol, 1243mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 3g fiber), 23g protein.
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Hamburger Mac and Cheese
Total Time
25 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This skillet dinner is doubly quick. The leftovers-if there are any-can be reheated to make a second meal as tasty as the first. —Karen Grimes, Stephens City, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 436 calories, 20g fat (10g saturated fat), 87mg cholesterol, 679mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 4g fiber), 25g protein.
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Smothered Burrito
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My brother-in-law teased that I only knew five ground beef recipes. I proved him wrong with my inventive spicy burritos. —Kim Kenyon, Greenwood, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 burrito: 624 calories, 33g fat (15g saturated fat), 115mg cholesterol, 1470mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 36g protein.
46/72
Hungarian Chicken Paprikash
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Some recipes for chicken paprikash include vegetables like bell peppers and celery, but not my Grandmother Alta’s. Hers was a simple combination of chicken, onions, garlic, paprika and sour cream. —Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 422 calories, 26g fat (8g saturated fat), 127mg cholesterol, 596mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 40g protein.
47/72
Taco Noodle Dish
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I got creative while we were housebound during a snowstorm one winter...and used ingredients I had on hand to come up with this hearty casserole. Later, I modified it so it has less fat and fewer calories. —Judy Munger, Warren, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 455 calories, 20g fat (7g saturated fat), 140mg cholesterol, 954mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 3g fiber), 40g protein.
48/72
Beef with Broccoli
Total Time
30 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
When I’m looking for a fast entree, I turn to this beef and broccoli stir-fry. It features a tantalizing sauce made with garlic and ginger. —Rosa Evans, Odessa, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 313 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 68mg cholesterol, 816mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 4g fiber), 29g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
49/72
Skillet Mac and Cheese
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This creamy mac and cheese is so simple it’s almost too easy! Kids really go for the rich cheese flavor, but I’ve never met an adult who didn’t love it just as much. —Ann Bowers, Rockport, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 600 calories, 37g fat (23g saturated fat), 144mg cholesterol, 1185mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 23g protein.
50/72
Stuffed Pepper Skillet
Total Time
25 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I love Mexican-inspired food. I also enjoy experimenting with recipes like this one and making them healthier—and downright good! —Jenny Dubinsky, Inwood, West Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 340 calories, 13g fat (7g saturated fat), 64mg cholesterol, 807mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 23g protein.
51/72
Quick Tacos al Pastor
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
We loved the pork and pineapple tacos from a food truck in Hawaii. My husband, a high school football referee, gives my version a thumbs-up. —Lori McLain, Denton, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
2 tacos: 317 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 57mg cholesterol, 573mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 5g fiber), 24g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 1 fat.
52/72
Pasta with Sausage and Peas
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
With a tomato-y meat sauce and tangy goat cheese, this weeknight wonder is my version of comfort food. You want to have bowl after bowl. —Lizzie Munro, Brooklyn, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1-2/3 cups: 563 calories, 28g fat (12g saturated fat), 75mg cholesterol, 802mg sodium, 60g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 7g fiber), 23g protein.
53/72
Meatball Pizza
Total Time
25 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I always keep meatballs and pizza crusts in the freezer to make this specialty on the spur of the moment. Add a tossed salad and you have a delicious dinner. —Mary Humeniuk-Smith, Perry Hall, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 320 calories, 16g fat (8g saturated fat), 35mg cholesterol, 754mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 17g protein.
54/72
Burritos
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My cousin is of Mexican heritage, and I’ve watched her make this crunchy beef burrito recipe for years. The very first time I made them for my own family, they instantly became a favorite meal. They’re even better warmed up the next day in the microwave. —Debi Lane, Chattanooga, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts:
1 burrito: 519 calories, 24g fat (10g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 1539mg sodium, 49g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 8g fiber), 27g protein.
55/72
Parmesan Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
On lazy summer weekends, we like chicken and yellow squash tossed with bow tie pasta. Add extra fresh grated Parmesan for a Sunday touch. —Sarah Smiley, Bangor, Maine
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 528 calories, 16g fat (9g saturated fat), 77mg cholesterol, 690mg sodium, 64g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 4g fiber), 33g protein.
56/72
Almond-Crusted Chops with Cider Sauce
Total Time
20 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I use finely ground almonds to give pork chops a crunchy crust. The cider sauce makes them tangy, creamy and sweet. —Gloria Bradley, Naperville, Illinois
57/72
Southwestern Goulash
Total Time
25 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I had some extra cilantro in the fridge and didn't want to throw it away. Instead, I came up with this delightful and filling family recipe. Everyone just loved it! —Vikki Rebholz, West Chester, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 224 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 37mg cholesterol, 567mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 4g fiber), 19g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 2 vegetable, 1 starch.
58/72
Cheeseburger Pizza
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband's favorite foods are pizza and cheeseburgers, so I combined the two in a pie with mayo and dill pickle juice. People who try this cheeseburger pizza always laugh in surprise because it's so good. —Angie Zimmerman, Eureka, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 508 calories, 31g fat (10g saturated fat), 58mg cholesterol, 1132mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 21g protein.
59/72
Lasagna Cups
Total Time
30 min
Servings
1 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
This is a super fun way to serve lasagna for make-ahead lunches, potlucks or other fun get-togethers. My daughter took some of these to work and by noon was emailing me for the recipe. —Sally Kilkenny, Granger, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
2 mini lasagnas: 414 calories, 19g fat (9g saturated fat), 83mg cholesterol, 970mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 2g fiber), 22g protein.
60/72
Pork Chops and Noodles
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
A fast, creamy skillet sauce dresses up everyday pork chops and noodles. Chicken also works well with this recipe and the zesty mix of mustards.—Margaret Bracher, Robertsdale, Alabama
Nutrition Facts:
1 pork chop with 1 cup noodles: 642 calories, 32g fat (14g saturated fat), 179mg cholesterol, 1175mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 44g protein.
61/72
Chicken Pizza
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My fun twist on typical pizza is an excellent way to use up leftover pesto. And since it’s loaded with protein-rich chicken and black beans, it’s hearty enough to satisfy everyone! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 419 calories, 17g fat (6g saturated fat), 60mg cholesterol, 761mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 31g protein.
62/72
Chicken Tacos
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
A few people in my family have special dietary needs, but luckily, these chicken tacos work for all of us. I toss up a simple green salad and have a meal we can all enjoy together. —Christine Schenher, Exeter, California
Nutrition Facts:
2 tacos: 354 calories, 15g fat (3g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 474mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 6g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 1 fat.
63/72
Taco Soup
Total Time
25 min
Servings
8 servings (about 2 quarts)
From the Recipe Creator:
We first sampled this chili-like taco soup recipe at a church dinner. What a warming dish for a cold day. And because it uses packaged seasonings with several cans of vegetables, it's a snap to prepare. —Glenda Taylor, Sand Springs, Oklahoma
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 370 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 70mg cholesterol, 1369mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 7g fiber), 27g protein.
64/72
Chicken Enchiladas for Four
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
These chicken enchiladas put a little zip into any menu. The rolled tortillas are filled with a hearty mixture of cheese, chicken and green chiles, and then topped with a creamy sauce and more cheese. I sometimes use leftover turkey instead of chicken. —Karen Bourne, Magrath, Alberta
Nutrition Facts:
2 enchiladas: 767 calories, 36g fat (18g saturated fat), 134mg cholesterol, 1654mg sodium, 64g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 4g fiber), 44g protein.
65/72
Easy Oven-Baked Burgers
Total Time
35 min
Servings
4 servings
Nutrition Facts:
1 burger: 397 calories, 19g fat (7g saturated fat), 93mg cholesterol, 743mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 31g protein.
66/72
Tortellini Carbonara
Total Time
20 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Bacon, cream and Parmesan cheese make a classic pasta sauce that's absolutely heavenly. It's a delightful option for company! —Cathy Croyle, Davidsville, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 527 calories, 36g fat (20g saturated fat), 121mg cholesterol, 728mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 19g protein.
67/72
Gluten-Free Chili Beef Pasta
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
After I got married, my aunt gave me her recipe for skillet spaghetti and told me it was ideal for a quick weeknight meal. Over the years I’ve tinkered with the ingredients and played with the seasonings to make it healthier. It's a dish my family truly loves. —Kristen Killian, Depew, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups (calculated without tomatoes): 312 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 47mg cholesterol, 442mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 3g fiber), 20g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2-1/2 starch, 2 lean meat, 1 vegetable.
68/72
Lemon-Garlic Pork Chops
Total Time
20 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My son James created these zesty chops spiced with paprika and cayenne. He keeps the spice rub in a jar to use with chops or chicken. —Molly Seidel, Edgewood, New Mexico
Nutrition Facts:
1 pork chop: 233 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 82mg cholesterol, 638mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 33g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat.
69/72
Turkey Linguine with Tomato Cream Sauce
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I love an easy weeknight meal! This meal comes together quickly and uses up the half block of cream cheese that always ends up in my fridge. —Amy Lents, Grand Forks, North Dakota
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 510 calories, 18g fat (7g saturated fat), 79mg cholesterol, 981mg sodium, 54g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 5g fiber), 32g protein.
70/72
Paprika Pork
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
When I was little, I would often ask my mom to make my "favorite meat." She knew I was requesting this homey pork recipe. It's been in my family for more than 30 years and it's still a favorite! —Alexandra Barnett, Forest, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup pork mixture: 320 calories, 23g fat (14g saturated fat), 122mg cholesterol, 524mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 24g protein.
71/72
Jezebel Chicken Thighs
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This easy-to-prepare, sweet and spicy chicken dish is a quick favorite that we make throughout the year. Tender and moist, it’s a filling dish for busy weeknights. —Judy Armstrong, Prairieville, Louisana
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken thigh with 2 tablespoons sauce: 380 calories, 19g fat (5g saturated fat), 82mg cholesterol, 474mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 1g fiber), 23g protein.
72/72
Italian Steak Sandwiches
Total Time
15 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My sister came up with these quick sandwiches that use minced garlic and other seasonings to bring pizzazz to deli roast beef. Add some carrot sticks or a tomato salad for a fantastic lunch in no time. —Maria Regakis, Somerville, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 440 calories, 20g fat (9g saturated fat), 39mg cholesterol, 1261mg sodium, 39g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 25g protein.
