Are you the type who thinks ahead or at least tries to until you find yourself staring into the abyss of your fridge at 6 PM, wondering what magic you can make for dinner? Fret not, because these prep-ahead recipes are about to become your new best friend. These saviors are made to lessen the panic of mealtime decisions, making “What’s for dinner?” a question of the past. Don’t miss out on these!

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs on a platter.
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Authentic Hungarian Goulash

Hungarian Goulash in two white bowls.
Authentic Hungarian Goulash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Dig into a pot of true comfort with roots that stretch back to Hungary. It’s the kind of dish that has you mopping up every last bit with a chunk of bread. Authentic Hungarian Goulash is a testament to how a few simple ingredients can create something remarkably rich. Whether it’s a chilly night or you’re just in the mood for something hearty, this goulash won’t disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Hungarian Goulash

Chicken Paprikash

Three pieces of chicken smothered in a creamy, orange-hued sauce topped with chopped herbs, served on a white rectangular plate.
Chicken Paprikash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you want something warm, creamy, and comforting, look no further. Chicken Paprikash hits all the right notes with its tender chicken and rich, paprika-infused sauce. This dish is a classic that never gets old, bringing a taste of Hungary straight to your dinner table. It’s surprisingly simple to make and even easier to love. Serve it up with some noodles or rice and watch it disappear.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash

Beef and Barley Soup

A bowl of Beef and Barley Soup with a burger on a long white tray.
Beef and Barley Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

On those days when only a soul-warming soup will do, Beef and Barley Soup is there for you. With tender chunks of beef, hearty barley, and vegetables simmered to perfection, it’s a meal in a bowl. It’s a timeless classic that feels like a warm embrace. Great for a cozy night in or when you need a little comfort food magic. Plus, it tastes even better the next day, if you can wait that long.
Get the Recipe: Beef and Barley Soup

Shrimp and Grits Casserole

A casserole dish with chicken and vegetables in it.
Shrimp and Grits Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Take a traditional Southern favorite to the next level with Shrimp and Grits Casserole. It’s everything you love about the classic dish, baked into a cheesy, savory casserole that’s bound to be a hit. This dish combines tender shrimp, creamy grits, and a kick of cheese to make your palate dance. It’s an easy way to feed a crowd or just treat yourself. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good casserole?
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Casserole

Pickled Yellow Beans

Pickled yellow beans in a jar on a wooden table.
Pickled Yellow Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Shake up your pickle game with Pickled Yellow Beans. These tangy, crunchy treats are a fun twist on traditional pickles. They’re amazing for snacking, adding to salads, or serving alongside your favorite dishes. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they’re guaranteed to become a staple in your pantry. Get ready to pucker up and enjoy the crunch! Even the veggie skeptics will have a taste.
Get the Recipe: Pickled Yellow Beans

Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe

A bowl of skillet gnocchi with sausage and broccoli rabe.
Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Looking for a weeknight hero? Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe comes together quickly and packs a punch of flavor. It’s a skillet full of pillowy gnocchi, spicy sausage, and slightly bitter broccoli rabe, all beautifully melded together. This dish promises to take your palate on an adventure. It’s a delicious blend of textures and tastes that’ll have you coming back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe

Million Dollar spaghetti

Spaghetti with meat and cheese in a baking dish.
Million Dollar spaghetti. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Forget about your usual pasta night, Million Dollar Spaghetti is here to shake things up. This dish is layers upon layers of cheesy, meaty goodness that lives up to its name. It’s like if lasagna and traditional spaghetti had a delicious baby. Get ready for a creamy, hearty dish that will win over anyone. You might not have a million dollars, but you can eat like you do.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar spaghetti

Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

A bowl of Mediterranean orzo salad on a black plate.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Brighten up your mealtime with Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp. It’s a light, refreshing dish packed with flavors of the Mediterranean. The combination of orzo, juicy shrimp, and colorful veggies, all tossed in a zingy dressing, is unbeatable. It’s fantastic for a picnic, a side dish, or a fulfilling main. Let every forkful transport you to a sun-drenched coast.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

Beef Bourguignon

Beef bourguignon in a white bowl with thyme.
Beef Bourguignon. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Are you in the mood to impress or just treat yourself? Beef Bourguignon is the answer. This French classic is a slow-cooked marvel, with beef that melts in your mouth, bathed in a rich, wine-infused sauce. It’s cozy, luxurious, and utterly irresistible. Though it takes a bit of time, the result is more than worth it. It’s not just food; it’s an experience worth taking.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bourguignon

Turkey à la King

A plate with a Turkey à la King and salad on it.
Turkey à la King. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Turn leftover turkey into a masterpiece with Turkey à la King. It’s a creamy, comforting dish that feels both homey and a little bit fancy. With tender turkey and veggies in a savory sauce, served over rice, pasta, or toast, it’s versatile and hits the spot every time. It’s the perfect solution to the age-old question of what to do with all that leftover turkey. Truly, it’s a king among comfort foods.
Get the Recipe: Turkey à la King

Beefy John Wayne Casserole

A slice of beefy John Wayne casserole on a plate.
Beefy John Wayne Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a dish that’s as bold as its namesake, Beefy John Wayne Casserole stands tall. This is down-home comfort food with layers of beef, cheese, and veggies that bake up to a bubbly, golden perfection. It’s a crowd-pleaser that fills you up and never lets you down. Ideal for potlucks, family dinners, or when you need some hearty goodness. Dust off your cowboy hat, because dinner is served.
Get the Recipe: Beefy John Wayne Casserole

Diner Style Salisbury Steak

A plate of Salisbury steak with gravy on mashed potatoes, and a side of peas on a white square dish. The meal is set on a white wooden table beside silver cutlery and a floral napkin.
Diner Style Salisbury Steak. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Hankering for that diner charm without leaving home? Diner Style Salisbury Steak brings all the cozy vibes of your favorite local spot right to your kitchen. This isn’t your ordinary frozen TV dinner version; it’s juicy, flavorful, and smothered in a rich mushroom gravy. Great for a nostalgic meal that fixes those comfort food cravings. Slide into your booth, aka your dining room chair, and dig in.
Get the Recipe: Diner Style Salisbury Steak

Roast Pork with Apples

A plate of Pork Roast with Apples on a table.
Roast Pork with Apples. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Need a dish that signals autumn has arrived? Roast Pork with Apples is a winner every time. The pork is succulent, the apples add a sweet tartness, and the whole thing just screams comfort. It’s a simple yet elegant meal that’s amazing for a Sunday dinner or a special occasion. The combination of flavors and aromas will make your kitchen smell like a fall harvest. It’s basically a cozy sweater in food form.
Get the Recipe: Roast Pork with Apples

Salmon Pasta Salad

A bowl of salmon pasta salad with a creamy dressing, garnished with a sprig of dill.
Salmon Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Light, refreshing, and brimming with flavors, Salmon Pasta Salad is the perfect dish for any occasion. It’s a mix of flaky salmon and fresh veggies all tossed in a light dressing. Whether it’s a side dish at your next BBQ or the main course on a warm evening, it’s versatile and always hits the spot. It’s a little bit fancy, a lot delicious, and completely hearty. Just what you need for a summer meal.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Salad

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs on a platter.
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Say hello to your new weeknight favorite, Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy. This dish is all about juicy chicken thighs that bake to perfection, topped with a rich and creamy gravy that’s to die for. It’s a comforting dish that’s simple enough for weekday dinners but impressive enough for guests. Packed with flavor and easy to whip up, it’s a true winner. And that gravy? Let’s just say you’ll want to put it on everything.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy

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