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Planning meals for the week doesn’t have to be boring or repetitive! This week’s lineup is packed with variety to keep things exciting—think cozy crockpot recipes, quick skillet favorites, and comforting baked dishes. Each meal is simple to make, full of flavor, and guaranteed to make dinnertime the best part of your day!

The Menu for Dinner

I’m keeping it simple and delicious this week with easy, flavorful meals! From a cozy slow cooker soup to bold and zesty dishes, there’s something to love every night. Click here for more meal plans!

Monday: One-Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Tuesday: Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup

Wednesday: Pollo Asado

Thursday: Pork Chops with an Apple Bacon Sauce

Friday: Kung Pao Beef

My weekly meal plans always include a printable shopping list that is measured out and ready to go. It makes things so easy!

Dragon Chicken is a spicy and flavorful dish featuring tender breaded chicken stir-fried with vegetables and coated in a rich, tangy, and slightly sweet sauce. It’s a crowd favorite for those who enjoy a fiery twist on the classic stir-fry!

Ingredients for Dragon Chicken

With its bright red color and bold flavor, this restaurant-style dragon chicken is just like a restaurant style dish! It’s simple, delicious, and sure to please the whole family! Check the recipe card for exact measurements.

For the Marinade

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast: The star of the dish! It absorbs the flavors while staying tender and juicy.

Egg: Acts as a binder and helps coat the chicken evenly, giving it a crispy texture during cooking.

Soy Sauce: Adds a savory, umami flavor and balances the spice.

Chili Paste: Brings the heat and gives this recipe its signature kick.

Ginger Paste or Grated Ginger: It adds warmth and depth to the dish.

Garlic Paste or Grated Garlic: Enhances the flavor with a garlic taste.

Dragon Chicken Breading

All-Purpose Flour: This creates a crisp outer layer for the chicken.

Cornstarch: Adds an extra crispy texture to the coating.

Chili Powder: For subtle heat and bold flavor.

Garlic Powder: Adds a savory depth and enhances the overall flavor.

Ground Ginger: Brings a warm, slightly spicy taste.

Black Pepper: Enhances the flavors and gives a bit of heat.

Oil: Choose a neutral oil for frying.

Stir fry

Vegetable Oil: To sauté the vegetables and toast the cashews.

Cashew Nuts: They add a rich, nutty crunch to the dish.

Red Bell Pepper: Brings a pop of color and a slight crunch to the stir-fry.

Red Onion: Adds a mild, slightly sharp flavor that mellows when cooked.

Dried Red Chilis: Gives the dish heat and a smoky depth.

Sliced Green Onions: Garnish for a mild onion flavor and vibrant color.

Sauce

Ketchup: Adds a sweet flavor to contrast the heat in the dragon chicken and serves as the base for the sauce, helping to balance the heat.

Soy Sauce: Provides a savory, umami depth.

Chili Paste: Brings extra spicy heat for a fiery kick.

Garlic Paste: Gives the best savory flavor!

Ginger Paste: Adds a warm, slightly sweet, and zesty note to the sauce.

Sugar: Balances out the spice with a touch of sweetness.

Rice Vinegar: Brightens the flavors and adds a slight tang.

Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce.

How to Make Dragon Chicken

This dragon chicken recipe comes together really easily for a meal that you will absolutely love! Adjus the spice levels to suit your tastes. Just be aware that spice can increase as it cooks. So add the spice in small doses!

Chicken

Prep: Cut the chicken into ½-inch by 2-inch strips and then put them in a sealable bag or large bowl. Whisk together the marinade ingredients: egg, soy sauce, chili paste, ginger, and garlic. Pour the mixture into the same container as the chicken, cover or seal, and then let it marinate for 30 minutes.

Mix: Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, whisk together the breading ingredients, which include the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, chili powder, garlic powder, ground ginger, and black pepper.

Heat: In a large skillet heat 2 inches of oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, but not smoking, remove the chicken from the marinade. Coat the chicken in the breading mixture evenly.

Fry: Working in batches, lay the breaded chicken in an even layer in the hot oil and then fry for about 4-5 minutes, turning the chicken to evenly brown. Place the cooked chicken onto a paper towel-lined plate and then set aside. Remove the oil from the pan or get a new pan.

Stir Fry

Stir Fry : Heat 1 tablespoon of new vegetable oil over medium high heat. Add the cashews, red bell pepper, red and green onion, and dried chilis, then cook stirring frequently until they are tender, about 5 minutes.

Make the Sauce: While the vegetables are cooking, whisk together the sauce ingredients: ketchup, soy sauce, chili paste, garlic, ginger, sugar, rice vinegar, and cornstarch.

Combine: Add the cooked dragon chicken to the pan with the vegetables, then pour the sauce over everything. Cook, stirring continuously, until the sauce thickens and coats everything in the pan. Remove from heat and serve!

This sausage and potato skillet recipe is meant to be a simple one skillet meal! It has tender baby potatoes, smoked sausage, peppers, and delicious seasonings that take it over the top. It’s hearty, satisfying and loaded with flavor!

Ingredients For Sausage and Potato Skillet

Gather your sausage, potatoes, and peppers and get ready for a colorful and tasty dinner! Use any kind of potatoes or veggies you have on hand to mix it up. You will love how easy and adaptable the ingredients are.

Smoked Sausage: Precooked smoked sausage makes this recipe so easy because it cooks up quickly!

Baby Potatoes: I love the size of baby potatoes! Feel free to use any potato, just be sure to cut them down so they cook faster.

Red Bell Pepper: Use any color or combination of bell peppers you like!

Yellow Onion: I used about ½ medium onion and diced it small.

Olive Oil: For cooking and the potatoes and veggies.

Garlic Powder: Adds tasty garlic flavor!

Oregano and Parsley: Delicious herb seasonings to make this recipe flavorful!

Salt and Pepper: Season to taste.

Sausage and Potato Skillet Recipe

If you love one skillet dinner recipes like me, then this sausage and potato skillet is for you! It’s a quick and easy meal for those busy nights and your family will LOVE it.

Prepare: Cut the sausage into ½-inch thick rounds. Cut the potatoes into 1-inch pieces, and the bell pepper into 2-inch long sticks.

Season the Potatoes: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat, add the potatoes to the skillet, and season with the garlic powder, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper.

Cook the Potatoes: Cook the potatoes, stirring frequently to evenly brown until the potatoes are tender about 15 minutes. Remove the potatoes from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Sausage and Veggies: To the skillet add the sausage, onion, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.

Combine: Add the potatoes back to the skillet with the sausage, stir, and cook everything together for another couple of minutes. Remove the skillet from heat and serve.

Hamburger Potato Casserole is hearty, filling, and great for family dinners. It’s full of tender potatoes and ground beef, smothered in a deliciously creamy sauce, and covered in melty cheese. Your family will love how cheesy and meaty it is!

Ingredients Needed to Make Hamburger Potato Casserole

You only need simple ingredients for this easy casserole recipe. It creates something hearty and super yummy. You probably already have everything in your pantry, and they are super budget-friendly. For exact measurements, scroll to the bottom of the post.

Lean Ground Beef: Ground beef is a great protein with the perfect meaty texture.

Russet Potatoes: This hearty potato absorbs flavors and provides the best tender texture to carry the ingredients in this dish.

Yellow Onion: The sweet, crunchy texture and flavor goes well with the beef.

Minced Garlic: Adds the best savory flavor. I always say you can measure garlic with your heart.

Salt and Pepper: Brings out the flavor of everything in this dish.

Can Cream of Mushroom Soup: Makes the sauce creamy and flavorful. You can use store bought or my homemade cream of chicken soup recipe.

Can Cheddar Soup: Infuses the whole dish with a bold, cheesy flavor and creamy texture.

Whole Milk: Helps to thin the sauce while keeping it thick and creamy.

Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a unique tangy depth of flavor.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts over the top to give the hamburger potato casserole a gooey, golden cheesy crust.

Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe

I love making this casserole on Sunday and having it in my fridge ready for dinner on a busy weeknight. Anything to help my day feel less stressful is a win in my book.

Prep: Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, and spray a 9x13x2 inch baking dish with cooking spray. Prepare the potatoes by peeling and slicing them no bigger than ¼-inch thick disks.

Sautee: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and onion, and cook the meat. Break it apart and stir frequently until the beef is browned.

Combine: Add garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook another minute, tossing to incorporate the seasonings. Remove the meat mixture from the heat and set aside.

Whisk: In a bowl, whisk together the mushroom soup, cheddar soup, milk, and Worcestershire sauce.

Layer: Assemble the casserole by laying down ⅓ of the meat mixture. Layer ⅓ of the potatoes over the meat, then pour ⅓ of the soup mixture over the potatoes and meat. Top this layer with ⅓ of the cheese.

Bake: Repeat the layers two more times, ending with the cheese. Cover the casserole in foil and bake for 90-120 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.

Melt Cheese: Uncover the casserole and bake another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned on top. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Philly cheesesteak sliders are a fun and delicious twist on a classic. These Philly cheesesteaks are filled with thinly sliced steak, caramelized onions, crisp peppers, and, of course, melty cheese.

What Goes In Philly Cheesesteak Sliders?

This simple list of ingredients makes this meal easy to make. Grab some Hawaiian rolls and steak; you should have almost everything else in your kitchen. Scroll to the bottom of the post, where you will find exact measurements in the recipe card.

Hawaiian Rolls: The softest, sweetest bread is the perfect canvas for these little sliders.

Beef Shaved Steak or Skirt Steak: Find a nice thinly sliced

Olive Oil: A neutral oil for cooking your veggies and steak.

Onion: Adds a bright, savory flavor and a lovely texture.

Green Bell Pepper: Gives the slider a crunch and pop of color.

Salt and Pepper: To taste.

Worcestershire Sauce: Provides a delicious umami flavor to the steak.

Provolone Cheese: I love using provolone, but you can use any type of melty cheese or cheese whiz.

Butter: Used to slather over the top of the buns, helping the dried onions to stick. This adds so much yummy flavor!

Garlic Salt: Gives the sliders a nice savory flavor mixed with the dried onion and butter.

Dried Onion Flakes: These are the perfect topper for these sliders. Drenched in butter and perfectly browned.

Philly Cheesesteak Sliders Recipe

Putting this recipe together is simple, and best of all, you can make it ahead of time to make dinnertime a breeze. Just follow my steps below, and then check the tips section for any adjustments you might want to try.

Prep: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Cut the rolls horizontally in half to have a top and bottom piece, then place the bottom half in a baking dish.

Cook Veggies: Add the oil, onions, and green peppers to a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes, then remove from the skillet and set aside.

Cook Beef: Returning to the same skillet, add the shaved beef, then cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. The shaved beef will cook fast. Add the Worcestershire sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Add: Layer the cooked beef on top of the rolls in the pan. 

Layer: Place the cooked onions and peppers on top of the meat.

Cover: Top with the provolone cheese slices. Then, put on the top half of the slider buns.

Melt and Mix: Add the butter to a small microwave-safe bowl and heat until melted. Mix in the garlic salt and onion flakes.

Brush and Bake: Brush the melted butter mixture on top of the buns using a basting brush. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops of the buns are golden. Cut into individual Philly cheesesteak sliders and serve warm!

Salmon rillettes is a creamy, flavorful spread made with fresh and smoked salmon blended with lemon, sour cream, and herbs. It is perfect for spreading on crackers or toasted baguette slices. This elegant appetizer is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion!

Ingredients Needed

This salmon rillette recipe is one of my favorite appetizers! It’s fabulous for a variety of occasions. I especially think it makes a great holiday app or starter before a holiday dinner. If you enjoy salmon, this is a must try recipe!

Fresh Salmon: Brings freshness and a flaky texture.

Smoked Salmon: Adds a bold, smoky taste.

White Wine: Used to simmer the salmon to add depth and acidity.

Lemon Peel: Enhances the freshness and balances the richness of the spread.

Black Peppercorns: For a hint of spice and warmth.

Fresh Herbs: A combination of fresh dill, bay leaves and chopped chives give the salmon rillettes plenty of complex flavor.

Fresh Lemon Juice: Brightens and balances the creaminess.

Sour Cream: Binds the ingredients together for a smooth spread and adds a bit of tang.

Salt and Pepper: To taste!

Baguette: Slice and toast for serving.

How to Make Salmon Rillettes

Salmon rillettes is a spread that’s surprisingly simple to make. It combines fresh and smoked salmon with a handful of ingredients for an impressive yet easy spread. Just be sure and plan ahead for the necessary chill time!

Simmer: Add the white wine to a large, deep skillet. Add the lemon peel, peppercorns, sprigs of dill, and bay leaves. Simmer over low heat for 10 minutes, giving the wine time to infuse with the flavors.

Simmer, then Chill Salmon: Add the fresh salmon to the wine and simmer, stirring occasionally for just over 2 minutes, until the salmon has just barely turned opaque on all sides. Remove it from the pan, then cover, and chill for about an hour.

Flake Salmon: Once the salmon has chilled, flake it gently into a medium-sized bowl.

Mix Ingredients: Add the smoked salmon, minced dill, chives, lemon juice, and sour cream to the bowl with the flaked salmon.

Chill for 1 Hour: Mix until combined. Cover and chill for at least an hour to let the flavors combine.

Comforting White Lasagna Soup is warm, creamy, and packed with rich flavors. With its hearty mix of chicken, noodles, white beans, and cheese, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Deconstructed white lasagna in a satisfying soup!

Ingredients for Making White Lasagna Soup

Each ingredient in this white lasagna soup recipe comes together to create a hearty, creamy, comforting soup with all the best flavors of a classic white lasagna in every bite. You can find all of the exact measurements in the recipe card below.

Chicken Breast: Skinless chicken breasts to dice into small pieces for protein, flavor, and heartiness.

Salt and Pepper: To season the chicken.

Olive Oil: For browning the chicken and sautéing the onion and garlic.

Yellow Onion: Adds a mild, sweet base flavor.

Minced Garlic: Brings a fragrant, savory depth to the soup.

Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and is the base for the creamy roux.

All-Purpose Flour: Thickens the soup for the perfect consistency.

Chicken Broth: Provides a savory and flavorful liquid base for the soup.

Heavy Cream: Makes the soup extra creamy and perfectly rich.

Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that add the best Italian flavor.

Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For a hint of spice.

Cannellini Beans: They give the soup extra protein, fiber, and texture.

Lasagna Noodles: Break into pieces for that classic lasagna feel in soup form.

Fresh Spinach: Adds a fresh, vibrant color.

Cheese: A combination of shredded parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese melts into the soup, adding creamy cheesiness.

Salt and Black Pepper: Enhances all of the flavors.

How to Make White Lasagna Soup

Making this soup is easy. Everything cooks in one pot, and the stovetop does most of the work! Classic white lasagna in a cozy, spoonable version is perfect for chilly nights. It’s one of those meals that has everyone coming back for seconds!

Prep: Season the diced chicken with the salt and pepper, and heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.

Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the pot and cook until the chicken is seared on all sides. It doesn’t need to be cooked all the way through. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Sauté: Add the onion to the same pot and cook until the onion is tender, about 3 minutes, then add in the garlic and cook for another minute.

Make the Roux: Add the butter to the pot and melt it, then whisk in the flour to create a paste or roux. Slowly pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, one cup at a time. Whisk continually to keep the roux from breaking.

Combine: Once the liquid is incorporated, add the cooked chicken, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, cannellini beans, and lasagna noodles. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Cook until the pasta is al dente, stirring periodically.

Add the Spinach and Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, add the spinach, parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese and cook until the spinach is wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with additional cheese on top.

Boursin pasta is going viral on TikTok, and I know why! It’s simple to make and packed with flavor! It’s creamy with a distinct zingy bite from the Boursin cheese and sundried tomatoes. This dish screams flavor! It’s anything but boring.

Boursin Pasta Ingredients

You’re going to love how simple this list of ingredients is. Everything is basically ready to go! Toss it in your baking dish, boil your noodles and dinner is ready! For exact measurements, scroll to the bottom of the post.

Boursin Cheese: Similar to cream cheese in texture, but not as tangy and infused with fine herbs giving this dish so much flavor. Get it from the store or make your own homemade Boursin cheese.

Cherry Tomatoes: Add bright color and flavor with their sweet acidity.

Sundried Tomatoes: Gives the pasta a rich, delicious flavor.

Cloves Garlic Minced: Provides the perfect savory flavor.

Fresh Basil: Heightens any Italian dish and takes it to the next level. Fresh basil is always best!

Salt & Black Pepper: Enhances the flavors in the pasta dish.

Pasta: You can use whatever you have on hand. I used cavatappi. I like its shape and chew.

Pasta Water: Helps thin the sauce while keeping the creamy texture.

Freshly Grated Parmesan: Gives the pasta a nutty, cheesy, salty flavor.

Basil for Garnish: Adds a fresh minty flavor and a pop of color.

How to Make Boursin Cheese Pasta

There is a reason this Boursin pasta recipe is viral on TikTok! It seriously comes together quickly and easily. There is very little prep work, and everything is ready-made and easy to toss it all together.

Prep: Spray a 9x13x2 inch baking dish with cooking spray. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the Boursin cheese in the center of the baking dish, then arrange the cherry tomatoes, sundried tomatoes, and garlic around it. Sprinkle the basil, salt, and pepper over everything, then bake the cheese and tomatoes for 20-25 minutes. The cheese should be melted, and the tomatoes tender and juicy.

Cook Pasta: While the cheese and tomatoes bake, cook the pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water.

Add: Remove the pan of cheese and tomatoes from the oven and then whisk everything together into a sauce. Add pasta water to the sauce as needed to reach the desired consistency.

Garnish and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and then mix to coat. Garnish with parmesan cheese and additional basil, and serve.

Million Dollar Chicken features juicy baked chicken topped with a creamy, cheesy layer that’s bursting with flavor. The crispy bacon and crunchy almonds really take this to the next level. Enjoy with rice, pasta, vegetables, or any of your favorite sides!

Ingredients for Million Dollar Chicken

This million dollar chicken recipe uses simple ingredients to make such a tasty dish! It’s easy and loved by everyone. Great for busy weeknights, yet delicious enough for special occasions!

Bacon: Adds smoky, salty flavor to the dish.

Chicken: You’ll need four boneless, skinless chicken breasts.

Salt & Pepper: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.

Paprika: For smoky flavor.

Cream Cheese: Creates a creamy, rich base for the topping. Make sure it’s softened so it mixes easily.

Sour Cream: Adds tangy flavor and smooth texture to the topping.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Gets deliciously melty as the chicken bakes.

Garlic Powder: Provides a subtle garlic taste to the mix.

Onion Powder: Adds a hint of savory onion flavor.

Sliced Green Onions: This can add a fresh pop of green color and onion flavor.

Slivered Almonds: For a nutty crunch!

How to Make Million Dollar Chicken

You will love how simple this million dollar chicken is to make! Just season the chicken, add the creamy topping, and bake until bubbly and cheesy. It’s a rich, tasty dish that’s sure to impress!

Prep and Cook the Bacon: Prepare a 9X13X2 inch baking dish by spraying it with cooking spray, and preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook the bacon until crispy, chop it into pieces, and set aside.

Season the Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts with a meat tenderizer until they are an even ½ inch thick. Season all sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Make the Topping: In a bowl, mix the cooked and chopped bacon, cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, two tablespoons of green onions, and two tablespoons of slivered almonds.

Top the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken in the prepared baking dish, and then spread the cream cheese mixture evenly on top of each chicken breast.

Bake: Bake the chicken for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through. The internal temperature should be 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the chicken from the oven, then let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with the remaining two tablespoons of green onions and two tablespoons of slivered almonds.

Thai peanut dressing is perfect for drizzling over fresh chopped salads or dipping veggies. It’s a creamy mix of peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, and sweet chili sauce with a touch of garlic and ginger. It’s nutty and tangy, with the perfect amount of spice.

Thai Peanut Dressing Ingredients

This recipe is so simple and comes together in just 5 minutes. You should have most of the ingredients in your kitchen and can have the most delicious dressing ready in no time! Scroll to the bottom of the post for exact measurements.

Creamy Peanut Butter: Gives the dressing its signature peanut flavor and creamy texture.

Sesame Oil: Enhances the peanut butter and has a toasty nutty flavor.

Soy Sauce: Gives the dressings a savory umami flavor.

Fresh Lime Juice: Provides a bright, fresh note that cuts the savory peanut flavor.

Sweet Chili Sauce: Gives the dressing a nice sweet and spicy kick.

Fish Sauce: Adds a distinct Thai flavor to the dressing.

Brown Sugar: Provides sweetness to balance out the salty, nutty flavors.

Ginger Paste or Grated Ginger: Gives a fresh zing of spice and flavor.

Garlic Paste or Grated Garlic: Adds a bold, savory flavor!

How to Make Creamy Peanut Dressing

This Thai peanut dressing is so easy to make. Simply whisk together all of the ingredients. You will want to try all of my homemade dressings if they are as simple and delicious as this!

Whisk: Start by whisking the peanut butter, sesame oil, soy sauce, lime juice, sweet chili sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic in a bowl. Then, pour it over your favorite salad. You can store it in an airtight container in the fridge.