My Family Would Stage a Protest Without These 37 Recipes

Finding meals that keep everyone happy can be a challenge, but some recipes are too essential to leave off the menu. These 37 dishes have become family favorites, requested time and again. If they disappeared from the rotation, you’d likely hear about it. This collection is packed with the go-to meals that keep dinner drama-free.

An up-close shot of bacon-avocado ground beef burger on a flat white surface. — 25-Minute Bacon-Avocado Ground Beef Burger. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Lemon Dill Salmon and Asparagus

Lemon Dill Salmon and Asparagus is a light and refreshing meal ready in just 20 minutes. The salmon is baked with a lemon-dill seasoning, paired with tender asparagus for a one-pan dish. This recipe stands out for its fresh, zesty flavors that my family insists on having regularly. Its ease and simplicity make it a must-have for busy weeknights. They’d never let me skip this one.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Dill Salmon and Asparagus

Pork Chops and Applesauce with Blackberries

Pork chops with blackberry applesauce on a gray plate. — Pork Chops and Applesauce with Blackberries. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Pork Chops and Applesauce with Blackberries brings together juicy pork chops, homemade applesauce, and fresh blackberries for a sweet and savory combination. This dish is ready in 30 minutes and is loved for its balance of fruity notes and succulent meat. The applesauce adds a tangy sweetness that complements the pork perfectly. My family wouldn’t let a week go by without it.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops and Applesauce with Blackberries

Bangers & Mash with Guinness Gravy

Gravy being poured over sausages and mashed potatoes. — Bangers & Mash with Guinness Gravy. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Bangers & Mash with Guinness Gravy is a comforting dish of plump sausages and creamy mashed potatoes topped with rich, malty gravy. In 40 minutes, you’ll have a meal that’s both hearty and flavorful. The Guinness gravy adds depth to the dish, making it a regular request. Skipping this would probably cause a revolt in my household.
Get the Recipe: Bangers & Mash with Guinness Gravy

Garam Masala Cedar Plank Salmon

Garam Masala Cedar Plank Salmon brings together the smoky aroma of cedar and the warm spices of garam masala in just 30 minutes. The salmon is infused with earthy flavors that make this dish a unique favorite. It’s frequently requested for its balance of spice and smoke. My family would protest if this wasn’t part of the regular lineup.
Get the Recipe: Garam Masala Cedar Plank Salmon

Roasted Chicken and Vegetables

Roasted Chicken and Vegetables is a one-pan meal that delivers tender, juicy chicken with a variety of savory vegetables in under an hour. The herb seasoning brings out the flavors, making it a wholesome and satisfying dish. It’s a simple yet flavorful option that we turn to again and again. My family wouldn’t let me off the hook without this dish.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Chicken and Vegetables

California Steak Salad

California Steak Salad combines thinly sliced steak, fresh greens, avocado, and tomatoes in a meal ready in 30 minutes. The flavors are light, refreshing, and hearty all at once, making it a go-to salad. It’s frequently requested for its balance of steak and freshness. There would be a full-blown protest if this didn’t make an appearance often enough.
Get the Recipe: California Steak Salad

Grilled Shrimp Grain Bowl

Overhead shot of shrimp skewers and veggie skewers next to a bowl of dressed grains. — Grilled Shrimp Grain Bowl. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Grilled Shrimp Grain Bowl is a vibrant dish featuring grilled shrimp, grains, and fresh vegetables, ready in 30 minutes. The smoky shrimp paired with colorful veggies and grains like quinoa make this a refreshing, satisfying meal. It’s loved for its healthy, flavorful mix. My family would definitely stage a protest without this bowl of goodness.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Grain Bowl

Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice

Cilantro lime chicken on a plate next to avocado and cilantro garnish. — Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice is a zesty dish that combines pan-seared chicken with a bright cilantro-lime sauce, served over fluffy rice. It’s ready in 30 minutes and the vibrant flavors keep this dish on constant rotation. The sauce gives it a fresh kick that we can’t get enough of. Without this, I’d definitely hear complaints from the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice

Homemade Butternut Squash Ravioli

Homemade Butternut Squash Ravioli delivers rich, creamy flavors with a comforting blend of butternut squash and cheese wrapped in tender pasta. Ready in about an hour, this dish is a favorite for cozy nights. The homemade aspect adds to its charm. My family would rally in the kitchen if this wasn’t served up regularly during comfort-food season.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Butternut Squash Ravioli

Panko Crusted Rockfish

Panko Crusted Rockfish offers a crunchy and satisfying meal in about 30 minutes. The mild flavor of rockfish combined with crispy panko breadcrumbs creates a simple yet flavorful dish. It’s a go-to for seafood nights in our home. There would definitely be an uproar if this light, crispy dish disappeared from the weekly lineup.
Get the Recipe: Panko Crusted Rockfish

Tri-tip with Pineapple Mango Red Pepper Salsa

Tri-tip with Pineapple Mango Red Pepper Salsa is a tropical twist on steak that’s ready in just 40 minutes. The juicy tri-tip is grilled and topped with a bright, sweet salsa made from pineapple, mango, and red pepper. This dish is a regular favorite for its refreshing flavors and smoky meat. My family wouldn’t let me get away with skipping this one.
Get the Recipe: Tri-tip with Pineapple Mango Red Pepper Salsa

Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy

Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy is a classic comfort food, featuring tender chicken, veggies, and a creamy tarragon-infused gravy wrapped in flaky crust. This dish takes about an hour to prepare and is always a family favorite. The rich, herbaceous gravy sets it apart. If this didn’t make a regular appearance, I’d definitely face some kitchen protests.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy

Easy Butternut Squash Soup with Homemade Dumplings

Two bowls of butternut squash soup on a wooden table. — Easy Butternut Squash Soup with Homemade Dumplings. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

This Easy Butternut Squash Soup with Homemade Dumplings is a cozy meal, ready in about 45 minutes. The pureed butternut squash offers a creamy base, while the homemade dumplings add a comforting touch. This soup is perfect for chilly evenings and often requested for its warm, satisfying flavors. Without it, I’d surely be in hot water with the family.
Get the Recipe: Easy Butternut Squash Soup with Homemade Dumplings

Lamb Shepherd’s Pie

Lamb Shepherd’s Pie takes about an hour and combines savory ground lamb, veggies, and mashed potatoes in a hearty dish. It’s a family favorite for its rich flavors and creamy topping. This pie is a staple comfort meal in our home. I’m fairly certain a meal strike would occur if this wasn’t in the regular rotation.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Shepherd’s Pie

One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner

One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s ready in 35 minutes. Seasoned pork tenderloin is cooked alongside vegetables in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze. The garlic and pepper give it a robust flavor that my family loves. I can’t imagine getting through the week without this easy, satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner

Shrimp Asparagus Risotto

Shrimp Asparagus Risotto is a creamy and comforting dish ready in just 30 minutes. Succulent shrimp and fresh asparagus are folded into creamy Arborio rice, creating a flavorful balance. The light, crisp asparagus complements the rich risotto perfectly. I can’t risk leaving this out, or I’d face some serious dinnertime objections.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Asparagus Risotto

Cucumber Avocado Smoothie

A green smoothie with cucumbers, cilantro and avocado on a wooden cutting board. — Cucumber Avocado Smoothie. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Cucumber Avocado Smoothie is a refreshing blend of cucumber, avocado, lime, and cilantro, ready in just minutes. The smooth, creamy avocado pairs with the crisp cucumber for a light and hydrating drink. It’s a quick and refreshing option that my family requests often. Without this one, I’m sure I’d hear some grumbling from the smoothie fans in the house.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Avocado Smoothie

Filet Mignon with Peach Mango Cilantro Sauce

Filet Mignon with Peach Mango Cilantro Sauce brings together tender steak and a sweet, fruity salsa in just 35 minutes. The peach, mango, and cilantro sauce adds a refreshing contrast to the rich filet mignon. This dish is a showstopper and a frequent request. Missing out on this would definitely stir up some disappointment at dinner.
Get the Recipe: Filet Mignon with Peach Mango Cilantro Sauce

Strawberry Peach Smoothie

The Strawberry Peach Smoothie is a sweet blend of strawberries, peaches, and creamy Greek yogurt, ready in just a few minutes. It’s a refreshing option that’s perfect for breakfast or a quick snack. The fruity flavors are light and satisfying. I’m sure there’d be some serious smoothie withdrawals if this didn’t make the rotation.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Peach Smoothie

25-Minute Bacon-Avocado Ground Beef Burger

This Bacon-Avocado Ground Beef Burger is a quick and indulgent meal, ready in just 25 minutes. Juicy beef, crispy bacon, and creamy avocado come together to create a flavorful burger experience. The rich combination of savory and fresh flavors is what keeps this burger in high demand. It would probably cause a mini uprising if this wasn’t on the menu.
Get the Recipe: 25-Minute Bacon-Avocado Ground Beef Burger

Pineapple Banana Smoothie

A smoothie in a glass on a stack of cutting boards next to a fresh orange and pineapple top with text overlay. — Pineapple Banana Smoothie. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Pineapple Banana Smoothie blends fresh pineapple and banana for a tropical escape that takes just minutes to make. This dairy-free option is light, refreshing, and packed with natural sweetness. It’s a quick favorite in our home for breakfast or a snack. If I skipped this one, there’d definitely be some raised eyebrows around here.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Banana Smoothie

Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf

Bone in pork chop topped with hollandaise sauce and shrimp, on a white plate next to green beans. — Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf combines grilled pork chops with shrimp in a satisfying meal, ready in about 40 minutes. The rich, smoky pork pairs perfectly with the light, flavorful shrimp. It’s a crowd-pleasing surf and turf that always impresses. My family would likely stage a protest if I didn’t keep this on the regular rotation.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf

Roasted Cabbage Steaks

Roasted cabbage steak topped with tomatoes, bacon, goat cheese, and more. — Roasted Cabbage Steaks. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Roasted Cabbage Steaks are a simple yet satisfying dish featuring thick slices of cabbage topped with bacon, ready in 40 minutes. The smoky bacon enhances the tender, roasted cabbage, creating a surprisingly hearty dish. It’s a hit for veggie nights in our home. Leaving this off the menu might result in some disapproving looks.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cabbage Steaks

Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet

Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet is a quick dish combining chicken, mushrooms, and spinach in a rich balsamic cream sauce, ready in 25 minutes. The tangy balsamic sauce adds depth to the tender chicken and veggies. It’s a go-to for busy weeknights and is always requested for its bold, savory flavors. My family would definitely revolt if this didn’t make it to the table.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet

Raspberry Smoothie

The Raspberry Smoothie blends tart raspberries with sweet banana, oats, and creamy Greek yogurt for a delicious, filling treat. It’s ready in minutes, perfect for a quick snack or breakfast. The flavors are vibrant and satisfying, making it a family favorite. Without this in the lineup, my family might start searching for replacements—and fast.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Smoothie

Stuffed Shells with Spinach and Ricotta

Stuffed shells in a cast iron skillet. — Stuffed Shells with Spinach and Ricotta. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Stuffed Shells with Spinach and Ricotta brings together creamy ricotta cheese and fresh spinach, all wrapped in tender pasta shells, baked to perfection in under an hour. This dish offers a comforting, rich flavor that’s always requested. It’s a perfect blend of cheesy and savory. My family might stage a mini protest if this doesn’t make the dinner rotation.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Shells with Spinach and Ricotta

Roast Rack of Lamb

Roasted rack of lamb on a cutting board. — Roast Rack of Lamb. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Roast Rack of Lamb, with its garlic and fennel crust, offers rich, earthy flavors that pair beautifully with tender lamb, ready in about an hour. This dish stands out for its elegant presentation and robust taste. It’s a frequent request for special occasions. Skipping this dish might lead to serious disappointment around the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Roast Rack of Lamb

Grilled Rockfish Tacos

Grilled Rockfish Tacos combine flaky rockfish with fresh homemade slaw and lime, creating a zesty meal ready in just 20 minutes. The light fish paired with crunchy slaw and citrus makes this dish a refreshing favorite. It’s always in demand for taco nights. My family would be in an uproar if these weren’t a regular part of the menu.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Rockfish Tacos

Beef Tenderloin Recipe with Winter Vegetables

Beef Tenderloin with Winter Vegetables brings together tender beef and roasted seasonal vegetables in a meal ready in 45 minutes. The sage brown butter sauce enhances the dish with a rich, nutty flavor. It’s a luxurious, warming meal that always impresses. Without this, I’m sure the dinner table would be filled with longing glances and questions.
Get the Recipe: Beef Tenderloin Recipe with Winter Vegetables

Citrus Glazed Pork Chops

Grilled pork chops on a plate with oranges and limes. — Citrus Glazed Pork Chops. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Citrus Glazed Pork Chops feature pork chops covered in a zesty citrus glaze made from orange and lemon, ready in 30 minutes. The sweet and tangy glaze brings out the juiciness of the pork. It’s a refreshing option that my family requests for its bright flavors. There’d definitely be a protest if this dish went missing from the menu.
Get the Recipe: Citrus Glazed Pork Chops

Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes

Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes is a one-pan meal featuring pork chops and roasted potatoes, all infused with savory garlic and herbs, ready in 45 minutes. The tender pork and crispy potatoes are a comforting combination. This dish is a frequent request for its ease and flavor. Without this on the weekly menu, my family might start asking for alternatives.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes

Brown Butter Scallop Pasta

A serving of pasta topped with a seared scallops and a sage brown butter sauce. — Brown Butter Scallop Pasta. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Brown Butter Scallop Pasta combines seared scallops with pasta in a rich brown butter sauce, ready in 30 minutes. The nutty brown butter pairs perfectly with the tender scallops, creating a decadent, flavorful dish. It’s a special request in our household. If this wasn’t served regularly, I’m sure I’d hear about it from the scallop lovers in the family.
Get the Recipe: Brown Butter Scallop Pasta

Berry Avocado Smoothie

Berry Avocado Smoothie mixes juicy berries with creamy avocado and Greek yogurt for a refreshing, smooth drink, ready in minutes. The combination of sweet berries and rich avocado makes it both filling and satisfying. It’s a regular request for quick snacks or breakfasts. I’m certain my family would feel the void if this smoothie didn’t make its usual appearance.
Get the Recipe: Berry Avocado Smoothie

Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad

An overhead shot of a wooden serving bowl filled with salad next to cornbread on a cutting board. — Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad brings together pulled chicken in a tangy BBQ sauce with crisp salad greens, ready in 20 minutes. Corn, black beans, and fresh greens make this salad both hearty and refreshing. The zesty BBQ sauce ties everything together in a vibrant dish. If this didn’t make it onto the table regularly, I’m sure there’d be a few disappointed faces.
Get the Recipe: Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad

Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken

Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken features juicy chicken breasts glazed with a sweet and tangy maple-mustard sauce, ready in 45 minutes. The glaze caramelizes perfectly on the grill, creating a delicious balance of flavors. It’s a family favorite for its irresistible combination. I’d likely face some serious objections if this dish didn’t show up at our dinners.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken

Pork Chops with Mustard Shallot Gravy

Pork Chops with Mustard Shallot Gravy combines succulent pork chops with a tangy mustard and shallot gravy, ready in 35 minutes. The rich gravy complements the tender pork perfectly, making this dish a frequent request. It’s both comforting and sophisticated. Without this dish, I’m sure the dinner conversations would include some pointed comments about its absence.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops with Mustard Shallot Gravy