Sundays offer a wonderful opportunity to gather with loved ones and savor a satisfying meal together. However, deciding what to cook can sometimes feel like an insurmountable task. To make the decision-making process easier, we’ve compiled 45 straightforward Sunday dinner ideas that are sure to please even the most discerning palates. Ranging from timeless favorites to innovative twists, these recipes provide the perfect formula for a relaxing and rejuvenating Sunday evening.
45 Easy Sunday Dinner Ideas
Roast Chicken with Vegetables
The art of roasting a whole chicken is surprisingly straightforward, yielding a mouthwatering result with minimal fuss. By adding a medley of vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions to the baking sheet, you can create a well-rounded meal that’s as effortless as it is satisfying.
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Indulge in the comfort of a hearty Sunday dinner with this timeless recipe. By combining tender beef, creamy potatoes, and vibrant carrots in your slow cooker, you’ll create a richly flavored stew that’s sure to become a family favorite. Simply add the ingredients, let the magic happen for a few hours, and enjoy the warm, comforting aroma that fills your home on a chilly evening.
Spaghetti Carbonara
In a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, this classic Italian recipe yields a delectable spaghetti dish that’s both effortless to prepare and visually appealing. The combination of cooked spaghetti, scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, nutty Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of black pepper creates a rich, creamy pasta that’s ideal for a leisurely Sunday evening meal.
Pot Roast
Many families have a special place in their hearts for this beloved dish. To create it, start by browning a roast in a Dutch oven, then add an assortment of vegetables including carrots, potatoes, onions, and finally, beef broth. Allow the mixture to simmer away for several hours until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together beautifully. The end result is a mouthwatering pot roast that is sure to fill everyone’s belly and leave them feeling content.
Baked Ziti
A staple of Italian cuisine, this comforting dish makes for an ideal Sunday dinner option. To prepare, cook ziti pasta al dente before combining it with a rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and melted mozzarella cheese. The final step is to bake the mixture in the oven until the cheese reaches a golden brown and bubbly state, filling your kitchen with a savory aroma that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Shepherd’s Pie
Transforming leftovers into a savory masterpiece has never been easier! Combine the richness of roast beef with the comfort of mashed potatoes by creating a layered casserole that’s sure to become a family favorite. Simply alternate layers of creamy mashed potatoes, flavorful ground beef, and crunchy vegetables in a baking dish, then bake until the top layer is golden brown and crispy.
BBQ Chicken
Savor the simplicity and flavor of a classic Sunday dinner by firing up your grill. Marinate chicken breasts in your favorite seasonings, then slather on a rich and tangy BBQ sauce as they sizzle to perfection. Pair the star of the show with a colorful medley of roasted vegetables or a refreshing green salad, and you’ll have a meal that’s sure to delight the senses.
Skillet Lasagna
Without the need for boiling noodles, this skillet lasagna offers a convenient twist on the classic recipe. By layering the ingredients directly into the pan and cooking them on the stovetop, you can achieve a perfectly cooked dish with minimal fuss. As you cook each layer until it’s bubbly and golden, the aroma of melting cheese and savory sauce will fill the air, making your mouth water in anticipation.
Meatloaf
The quintessential Sunday dinner staple is surprisingly simple to prepare. Combine ground beef with breadcrumbs, eggs, and a blend of savory seasonings, then pop the mixture into the oven until it emerges from the heat as a golden-brown masterpiece.
Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon
For a leisurely Sunday evening meal, look no further than this effortless yet delectable salmon recipe. By combining the simplicity of baking with the brightness of lemon, pungency of garlic, and freshness of herbs, you’ll create a dish that’s both satisfying and easy on the palate.
Chicken Parmesan
For a satisfying Sunday dinner, look no further than this timeless Italian classic. By breaded and frying chicken cutlets, then topping them with rich tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, you’ll create a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Simply bake the combination until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly, and serve it up for a meal that’s both easy to prepare and impressive in its presentation.
Pork Tenderloin with Apples
Savor the flavors of autumn with a delightful roast pork tenderloin recipe that effortlessly utilizes crisp apples, resulting in a harmonious blend of sweet and savory notes. By slow-roasting the pork tenderloin alongside sliced apples, you’ll be rewarded with a tender and juicy dish that’s perfect for cozying up during the fall season.
Fried Rice
Indulge in the simplicity and flavor of this delectable Sunday dinner recipe. By combining fluffy rice with an assortment of sautéed vegetables, scrambled eggs, and a savory drizzle of soy sauce, you’ll be treated to a harmonious balance of textures and tastes. Pair this delightful dish with succulent grilled or roasted chicken for a truly satisfying meal.
One-Pot Chicken and Rice
Indulge in the comforting charm of this effortless yet mouthwatering one-pot wonder, ideal for a leisurely Sunday gathering. Let chicken, rice, and vegetables harmoniously simmer together to create a tender and delectable medley that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Shrimp Scampi
Savor the essence of a leisurely Sunday gathering with this effortless yet tantalizing recipe. A harmonious blend of succulent shrimp, aromatic garlic, crisp white wine, rich butter, and a squeeze of bright citrus comes together to create a dish that’s sure to impress. Pair it with al dente pasta or a crusty loaf for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for a family dinner or casual get-together.
Baked Salmon with Vegetables
Savor the simplicity and wholesomeness of a classic Sunday dinner by indulging in a mouthwatering roast salmon experience. Pair the succulent fish with an assortment of vegetables, allowing each bite to melt in your mouth as they become tender and infused with flavor.
Meatball Sub Sandwiches
Savoring the flavors of a lazy Sunday afternoon, this mouthwatering sandwich is an effortless culinary delight. Combining tender meatballs smothered in tangy tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese on a crispy sub roll creates a satisfyingly simple yet impressive meal.
Chili
Savor the warmth and comfort of this timeless recipe on a cozy Sunday evening. A hearty blend of cooked beans, ground beef, and vegetables, infused with a medley of spices, awaits to tantalize your taste buds.
Chicken Fajitas
Savoring the flavors of a leisurely Sunday, this effortless yet delectable meal is sure to become a new family favorite. Simply cook marinated chicken alongside an assortment of vibrant vegetables in a large skillet, then wrap it all up in a warm tortilla and customize with your preferred toppings for a truly satisfying dining experience.
Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Indulge in a satisfying and nutritious Sunday dinner by cooking up a flavorful medley of beef, broccoli, and other vegetables in a single skillet. Simply sauté the ingredients in a savory blend of soy sauce and seasonings until the dish is piping hot and ready to be devoured.
Ratatouille
Indulge in the comforting goodness of this hearty vegetable stew, an ideal choice for a satisfying meatless Sunday dinner. Savor the tender fusion of flavors as you cook eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes with a medley of herbs and spices until every ingredient is perfectly cooked.
Quiche
For a stress-free Sunday evening, look no further than this delectable egg-based main course. By combining the simplicity of whisked eggs with the richness of cream, the savory flavor of melted cheese, and the crunch of sautéed veggies, you’ll create a dish that’s as effortless to prepare as it is pleasing to the palate. Simply mix all the ingredients together and bake until they’re puffed and golden, resulting in a satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Pesto Pasta
Savor the flavors of a relaxing Sunday evening with this effortless yet tantalizing dish. Combining cooked pasta with the rich essence of pesto sauce and an assortment of vibrant vegetables creates a feast for the senses, perfect for a leisurely afternoon gathering.
Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs
Imagine the tender, succulent essence of chicken thighs infused with the brightness of lemon and the subtle nuances of herbs, all harmoniously combined to create a heartwarming dish that will leave you craving more. The result is a perfectly roasted meal that showcases the magic of marination, elevating the humble chicken thigh into a culinary masterpiece.
Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff
Indulge in the rich flavors of sautéed beef strips and earthy mushrooms, harmoniously blended in a velvety sauce that complements perfectly with a bed of egg noodles or steaming hot rice, creating a filling and satisfying dinner experience.
Sheet Pan Sausage and Vegetables
Savvy home cooks know that sheet pan dinners are the ultimate time-saving solution for a stress-free evening meal. The simplicity of this cooking method lies in its ability to effortlessly combine tender sausages with a vibrant medley of colorful vegetables, resulting in a well-rounded and satisfying culinary experience.
Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken
For a mouthwatering main course, coat chicken breasts in a flavorful blend of Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and fragrant herbs. Next, pop them into the oven until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside, while remaining juicy and tender within. Pair with your preferred accompaniments for a well-rounded and indulgent meal experience.
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken Breast
Transform traditional chicken breasts into an indulgent treat by butterfly-cutting them and stuffing them with a savory blend of sautéed spinach, crumbled feta cheese, and fragrant herbs. As you bake the dish to perfection, the chicken will be tender and juicy, while the filling will melt and infuse the meat with its rich flavors.
BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
Transform a pork shoulder into a mouth-watering, fall-apart delight by slow-cooking it in a rich barbecue sauce until it’s tender enough to easily shred. Then, elevate the dish to new heights by serving the pulled pork on soft slider buns and topping it with your go-to favorites – a crowd-pleasing meal that’s sure to satisfy any appetite.
Shrimp Pasta with Garlic and Lemon
Transform a humble plate of pasta into a delectable feast by cooking succulent shrimp in a zesty mixture of sautéed garlic, tart lemon juice, and rich butter. The resulting dish is a harmonious marriage of flavors and textures that’s sure to delight even the most discerning seafood enthusiasts.
Teriyaki Salmon
To elevate the flavor of salmon fillets, marinate them in a rich and aromatic homemade teriyaki sauce, allowing the sweet and savory notes to penetrate deep into the fish’s flaky texture. Once cooked through and glazed to perfection, serve the salmon with a side of steamed rice and an assortment of colorful vegetables for a nutritious and mouthwatering meal that is sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Vegetarian Tacos
Transform the classic taco shell into a mouth-watering, meat-free Sunday dinner sensation by filling them with an assortment of tender sautéed vegetables, hearty black beans, melted cheese, and an array of your most cherished toppings. This innovative take on a timeless favorite is sure to delight even the most discerning palates.
Baked Zucchini Parmesan
Transforming sliced zucchinis into a mouthwatering treat is as easy as 1-2-3! Simply coat the zucchini slices with a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, then bake until they’re crispy and golden. This delightful dish can be enjoyed as both a nutritious side accompaniment and a satisfying vegetarian main course.
Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon
Transform your salmon fillets by brushing them with a delectable honey mustard glaze that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tangy. Next, achieve a tender and juicy texture by broiling or grilling the fish until it’s cooked through to perfection. For a well-rounded meal, accompany your salmon with a colorful medley of roasted vegetables or a crisp fresh salad, creating a light yet satisfying dinner experience.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Transform humble bell peppers into a savory delight by stuffing them with a flavorful mixture of ground meat, rice, and sautéed vegetables. The result is a hearty, adaptable dinner option that’s sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet
In just one pan, combine the savory flavors of sautéed shrimp, spicy sausage, vibrant bell peppers, and sweet onions by seasoning with a bold Cajun spice blend. This hearty dish is perfect for serving over a bed of fluffy rice or a plate of al dente pasta, making it an excellent option for a quick and satisfying meal.
Baked Teriyaki Chicken Drumsticks
Transform your dinner routine by marinating chicken drumsticks in a rich, homemade teriyaki sauce that’s both sweet and savory. Bake until the chicken is tender and juicy, while the glaze turns into a caramelized delight. Pair this mouthwatering main course with fluffy steamed rice and a medley of colorful, steamed vegetables for a well-rounded and satisfying Asian-inspired meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Transform portobello mushroom caps into a culinary masterpiece by filling them with a harmonious blend of creamy mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, fragrant basil, and tangy balsamic glaze. As you bake these delectable combinations, the mushrooms will tenderize, while the cheese melts to perfection, creating a savory vegetarian delight that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp
Transform succulent shrimp into a delectable main course by sautéing them in a rich and zesty lemon-garlic butter sauce until they’re cooked to perfection. This effortless dish can be served over a bed of fluffy pasta or rice, making for a quick yet impressive dinner that’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
Vegetable Stir-Fry
Transform your evening meal into a vibrant celebration of flavors by stir-frying an assortment of colorful vegetables alongside your preferred protein source. The harmonious marriage of ingredients is elevated by a rich and aromatic sauce, which can be tailored to suit your taste preferences. Serve the delectable concoction over a bed of fluffy rice or noodles for a wholesome and adaptable dinner option that’s sure to please even the pickiest palates.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken
Indulge in the rich flavors of sautéed chicken breasts cooked to perfection with the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, the freshness of wilted spinach, and a velvety cream-based sauce that will leave you craving more. This comforting dinner is best served over a bed of al dente pasta or creamy mashed potatoes, making for a well-rounded meal that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Honey Garlic Glazed Pork Chops
Savor the flavors of the weekend by elevating your pork chops to new heights. Begin by coating them in a rich honey garlic glaze that’s equal parts sweet and savory. From there, you can choose to grill or bake them until they’re cooked through to perfection. To round out the meal, consider serving the pork chops with a medley of roasted vegetables or a fresh side salad – the perfect accompaniments to a stress-free Sunday dinner.
Greek Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers
To add zesty flavor to your dish, marinate chicken pieces in a refreshing lemon herb mixture. Then, arrange the chicken on skewers and fire up the grill until it’s cooked to perfection, with a tender and juicy texture. For a complete Greek-inspired meal, serve the grilled chicken with a cool and creamy tzatziki sauce, alongside warm and crusty pita bread.
Baked Stuffed Shells
To create a mouthwatering dish, start by cooking jumbo pasta shells al dente. Next, prepare the filling by combining ricotta cheese with wilted spinach, chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil, and a pinch of salt. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the creamy mixture, making sure to fill them evenly. Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover them with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese. Finally, bake the shells in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Honey Balsamic Glazed Salmon
Transform your Sunday evenings with a delightful culinary experience! Pair succulent salmon fillets with a rich honey balsamic glaze, then finish them off in the oven or on the grill until they’re tender and caramelized to perfection. Serve alongside a medley of roasted vegetables or a fresh, crisp salad for a nutritious and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a new Sunday tradition.
As you unwind and gather with loved ones around the table, remember that these 45 effortless Sunday dinner ideas have got you covered. From timeless classics to innovative twists, there’s something on this list for every palate and preference. Whether you prefer cooking low and slow in your slow cooker, whipping up a stovetop sensation, or baking to perfection in the oven, these recipes are designed to be easy to make and please even the pickiest of eaters.
So go ahead, choose one (or two, or three…) of these mouthwatering recipes, gather your crew, and indulge in a cozy and comforting Sunday dinner that’s sure to leave everyone feeling full and content.