• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
always use butter
  • Recipes
  • Air Fryer Resources
  • Blogging Resources
  • Subscribe!
  • About
  • Contact
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipes
  • Air Fryer Resources
  • Blogging Resources
  • Subscribe!
  • About
  • Contact
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Recipes
    • Air Fryer Resources
    • Blogging Resources
    • Subscribe!
    • About
    • Contact
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • ×
    Home » Quick & Easy Meals » Dump and Bake Recipes

    Dump, Bake, and Enjoy: 40 Gourmet Dinners Made Simple

    By Emmeline Kemperyd updated November 25, 2025 · Published November 25, 2025 · Leave a Comment

    These 40 gourmet dinners are quick and easy to prepare, making weeknight meals a breeze. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create delicious dishes that impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy a variety of flavors and styles that will satisfy everyone at the table.

    Baked Ravioli Casserole

    Baked Ravioli Casserole.
    Photo credit: Midwest Foodie.

    Baked ravioli casserole is a simple dish that comes together in about 20 minutes, with just 5 minutes of prep time. Using ready-made cheese ravioli makes it an easy choice for busy nights. You can also prepare it in advance and keep it in the fridge or freezer for later.

    Save This Recipe Form

    Want to save this recipe?

    Enter your email below & we'll send it straight to your inbox. Plus you’ll get more great recipes from us each week!

    Get the recipe

    Sheet Pan Caprese Chicken

    Sheet Pan Caprese Chicken.
    Photo credit: Food Meanderings.

    This chicken dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it a simple option for dinner. It's packed with flavor and is sure to please everyone at the table.

    Get the recipe

    One-Pan Maple Dijon Chicken

    One-Pan Maple Dijon Chicken
    Photo Credit: Simply Stacie.

    This dish combines juicy chicken with butternut squash, purple potatoes, and broccoli, all cooked together on a single pan. It's an easy and nutritious meal that works well for any evening. With everything baked together, cleanup is a breeze, making it a great choice for a busy night.

    Get the recipe

    Greek Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

    Greek Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner
    Photo Credit: Busy Day Dinners.

    This easy sheet pan dinner combines a delicious variety of ingredients with fresh Mediterranean flavors. It's a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Perfect for busy nights, this dish is simple to prepare and clean up.

    Get the recipe

    Baked Chicken Drumsticks & Veggies

    Drumsticks and veggies.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This sheet-pan dinner is ideal for busy weeknights. A bit of chopping is all it takes to prepare a tasty meal featuring chicken, vegetables, and a flavorful sauce, all cooked together in one pan. It's a simple way to enjoy a hearty dinner without spending too much time in the kitchen.

    Get the recipe

    Ranch Sheet Pan Chicken & Veggies

    Sheet pan with chicken and veggies.
    Photo credit: Budget Delicious.

    This simple sheet pan chicken dinner with vegetables is perfect for busy families looking for a healthy meal that doesn't require much work. Just mix everything together, pop it in the oven, and it's ready to serve. It's a straightforward way to enjoy a nutritious dinner without spending too much time in the kitchen.

    Get the recipe

    Honey Mustard Salmon

    Honey Mustard Salmon.
    Photo Credit: Midwest Foodie.

    A sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce transforms simple salmon and asparagus into a delightful meal. This dish is quick to prepare, making it a great option for any evening. It's a tasty way to enjoy a healthy dinner without spending too much time in the kitchen.

    Get the recipe

    Maple Mustard Salmon

    Maple Mustard Salmon - Sheet Pan Dinner
    Photo Credit: Midwest Foodie.

    Maple mustard salmon is a simple dinner option that comes together in about 40 minutes, mostly while it roasts in the oven. The combination of sweet and tangy maple Dijon sauce pairs perfectly with cubed sweet potatoes, crispy Brussels sprouts, and fresh salmon. This dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

    Get the recipe

    Garlic Parmesan Sheet Pan Drumsticks

    Garlic Parmesan Sheet Pan Chicken Drumsticks.
    Photo credit: xoxoBella.

    Oven baked chicken drumsticks are a delicious choice for dinner, and using a sheet pan means cleanup is easy. This dish combines the wonderful flavors of garlic, parmesan, red pepper, and parsley, creating a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

    Get the recipe

    Sheet Pan Salmon and Asparagus

    Sheet Pan Salmon and Asparagus
    Photo Credit: Get Inspired Everyday.

    This salmon dinner is quick and easy, taking less than 10 minutes to prepare. It's packed with flavor thanks to a tasty blend of honey and Dijon mustard. Perfect for a busy evening, this dish brings gourmet taste to your table without much effort.

    Get the recipe

    Vegetarian Ravioli Bake

    Ravioli bake.
    Image credit: Sustainable Cooks.

    This dish is a hit with the whole family and is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. It's loaded with cheese and bursting with flavor, making it a great choice for dinner. Simple to prepare, it brings comfort and deliciousness to your meal.

    Get the recipe

    Chicken Fajita Casserole

    A chicken fajita casserole.
    Photo credit: Sustainable Cooks.

    This chicken fajita casserole is a simple one-pan dish that combines all the comforting flavors you love. It's not only easy to prepare, but it also tastes great as leftovers, making it a solid choice for busy nights.

    Get the recipe

    Creamy Baked Ziti

    CREAMY BAKED ZITI.
    Photo credit: The Cookin' Chicks.

    This dish features tender noodles mixed with a rich, creamy sauce and gooey melted cheese, creating a comforting meal. It's an easy choice that the whole family will love, bringing tasty Italian flavors straight to your dinner table.

    Get the recipe

    Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Sausage & Veggies

    Gnocchi sheet bake.
    Photo credit: Living Lou.

    Sheet pan oven-baked gnocchi with sausage and vegetables is a quick and easy dinner that comes together in just 25 minutes using only one pan. This dish is perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen. With its mix of flavors and textures, it's a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

    Get the recipe

    Sheet Pan Caprese Gnocchi

    Caprese gnocchi on a sheet pan.
    Photo Credit: The Savory Cipolla.

    This sheet pan dinner is perfect for any weeknight. It's simple to prepare and offers a delicious meal for the whole family without taking up too much of your time in the kitchen.

    Get the recipe

    Sheet Pan Kielbasa & Veggies

    Sheet pan kielbasa and veggies.
    Photo credit: Lavender & Macarons.

    This dinner is straightforward and requires minimal effort, all prepared on a single sheet pan. You can pick your favorite sausage and any vegetables you enjoy. It's a convenient way to put together a tasty meal without a lot of cleanup.

    Get the recipe

    Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake

    Chicken pasta bake.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This dish is packed with chicken and broccoli, making it a filling meal that often leaves you with extra for later. It's an easy choice for dinner that hits the spot without requiring much effort.

    Get the recipe

    Baked Gnocchi with Frozen Veggies

    Baked gnocchi with vegetables on a Dutch oven.
    Photo Credit: Happy Veggie Kitchen.

    This one-pan gnocchi bake is super simple and doesn't need any chopping. It's packed with frozen mixed veggies and a creamy cheese sauce, creating a cozy meal that everyone will enjoy.

    Get the recipe

    Pesto Salmon

    Pesto salmon on a serving platter.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    Pesto Salmon comes together in just 15 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy evenings. With a delicious topping of Greek yogurt and pesto, this baked salmon is packed with flavor and simple to prepare.

    Get the recipe

    No-Boil Ravioli Casserole

    This cheesy ravioli casserole is one of the simplest dishes you can make. With just four simple ingredients and store-bought shortcuts, you can prep this dish in 5 minutes, and eat in under 40!
    Photo credit: Emmeline Kemperyd.

    This dish is super simple to make. With only four ingredients and a few store-bought items, you can whip it up in just 5 minutes and have it served in under 40. It's perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without spending a lot of time in the kitchen.

    Get the recipe

    Chicken Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Bake

    sun-dried tomato pasta bake.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This dish combines cheesy chicken and pasta with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, resulting in a filling and enjoyable meal. It's a comforting choice that's easy to whip up, perfect for a busy evening.

    Get the recipe

    Cajun Chicken Pasta Casserole

    Cajun chicken pasta casserole.
    Photo credit: Practically Homemade.

    Cajun flavors are a favorite, and this casserole is really simple to make. There's no need to boil any pasta, and the creamy sauce that forms while it bakes is sure to impress everyone. It's a great option for a cozy dinner.

    Get the recipe

    Bacon Wrapped Salmon with Garlic Butter

    Bacon wrapped salmon.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    Salmon filets are covered in garlic butter and wrapped in bacon, creating a delicious meal that everyone will love. This dish is easy to prepare and offers a touch of gourmet flavor right at home. It's a satisfying dinner choice that combines simple ingredients for a delightful experience.

    Get the recipe

    Sweet & Spicy Glazed Salmon

    Sweet & Spicy Glazed Salmon.
    Photo credit: Cassidy's Craveable Creations.

    This keto salmon is covered in a delicious sweet and spicy sauce. It's quick to prepare, taking only 20 minutes, and you only need one pan to make it. Plus, you don't even have to flip the salmon while it cooks!

    Get the recipe

    Mediterranean Veggie Casserole

    Veggie casserole.
    Photo credit: The Fiery Vegetarian.

    This casserole is easy to put together and goes right into the oven. It features tender vegetables cooked in a flavorful garlic sauce that brings everything together nicely.

    Get the recipe

    Baked Lamb Chops & Veggies

    Baked lamb chops with veggies.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This sheet pan meal offers an easy way to enjoy lamb without worrying about overcooking it. The lamb chops soak up the tasty juices from the vegetables, making the meat tender and flavorful. It's a straightforward dish that brings together great flavors with minimal effort.

    Get the recipe

    Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole

    A casserole dish full of spinach artichoke casserole.
    Photo credit: Nibble and Dine.

    This creamy casserole is a simple mix of rotisserie chicken and frozen vegetables, making it a breeze to prepare. It comes together in under an hour, which is great for a quick dinner option. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a hearty meal that satisfies everyone.

    Get the recipe

    Sheet Pan Salmon Oreganata

    Baked salmon with crispy topping.
    Photo credit: Lavender & Macarons.

    This dinner is simple to make and comes together on just one sheet pan. It features a crispy coating and lively flavors that everyone in the family will enjoy. Perfect for busy evenings, this meal is both healthy and satisfying.

    Get the recipe

    Tuna Sushi Bake

    Tuna Sushi Bake on a white dish.
    Photo Credit: Piper Cooks.

    Sushi bake is a simple dish that mixes rice, canned tuna, slivered nori, and a spicy mayo drizzle. This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, making it easy to prepare ahead of time or serve at gatherings. It's a fun twist on traditional sushi that everyone can enjoy.

    Get the recipe

    Roasted Gnocchi with Veggies

    Roasted gnocchi with veggies.
    Photo credit: FODMAP Everyday.

    This dish is great for anyone who enjoys gnocchi. The gnocchi gets a nice coating of olive oil and is baked in the oven, resulting in a crispy exterior while remaining soft and tender on the inside.

    Get the recipe

    Baked Lemon Salmon on Veggies

    Baked Lemon Salmon on Veggies.
    Photo credit: Oh Sweet Culture Shock.

    This salmon dish is both healthy and easy to prepare. Fresh lemon slices and herbs add flavor as it bakes, resulting in a juicy and flaky meal. It's perfect for any night of the week.

    Get the recipe

    Baked Vegan Pasta

    Vegan pasta bake.
    Photo credit: Plant Based Folk.

    This creamy vegan pasta bake is easy to make and packed with vegetables. It's a tasty dish that can be enjoyed hot or cold, making it versatile for any meal. Perfect for a quick dinner, this recipe brings together comfort and nutrition in one dish.

    Get the recipe

    Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

    Million dollar casserole.
    Photo credit: Kitchen Fun With My 3 Sons.

    This casserole combines shredded chicken with cream cheese and cream of chicken soup, all covered with a crunchy Ritz cracker topping. It's an easy dish that brings comfort and warmth, making it a great choice for a cozy dinner.

    Get the recipe

    No Boil Stuffed Pepper Casserole

    No Boil Stuffed Pepper Casserole on a baking dish.
    Photo Credit: Piper Cooks.

    This casserole is simple to put together and skips the boiling step. It features bell peppers, navy beans, long-grain white rice, and a flavorful tomato sauce seasoned with Italian spices. It's a great option for a cozy dinner that doesn't take much effort.

    Get the recipe

    Baked Salmon with Black Rice

    Salmon with black rice.
    Photo credit: Seasonal Cravings.

    Salmon paired with black rice creates a delicious combination that you'll find yourself wanting to make repeatedly. This dish is easy to prepare and offers a fulfilling meal that works for any occasion.

    Get the recipe

    Monterey Chicken Casserole

    Monterey Chicken Casserole.
    Photo credit: Zona's Lazy Recipes.

    This casserole is easy to put together and perfect for a family meal. It features zesty BBQ sauce, juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy Monterey Jack cheese. Everyone will love this comforting dish that brings great flavors together.

    Get the recipe

    Baked Tilapia

    Baked tilapia.
    Photo credit: Organically Addison.

    Baked tilapia is an easy and delicious meal that comes together in just 15 minutes. This fish is tender and packed with flavor, making it a great choice for a quick dinner.

    Get the recipe

    Roasted Gnocchi with Mushrooms & Broccoli

    Roasted Gnocchi with Mushrooms & Broccoli
    Photo Credit: Happy Veggie Kitchen.

    Vegetarian sheet pan gnocchi is a simple and tasty dinner choice. With only a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying meal in just 30 minutes, and cleanup is a breeze since it all cooks in one pan.

    Get the recipe

    Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs with Cabbage & Brussels Sprouts

    Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs with Cabbage & Brussels Sprouts.
    Photo credit: Little Sunny Kitchen.

    Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs are full of delicious flavors and loaded with vegetables, making it a healthy choice for dinner. This dish is ideal for a family meal that everyone can enjoy.

    Get the recipe

    Sheet Pan Steak & Potatoes

    Sheet pan steak and potatoes.
    Photo credit: Inquiring Chef.

    This sheet pan version of a classic steak dinner combines juicy steak with tender roasted potatoes, creating a satisfying meal all in one pan. It's a comforting dish that brings the flavors of a hearty dinner to your table without much cleanup. Enjoy a delicious meal that's easy to prepare and perfect for any night.

    Get the recipe

    More Dump and Bake Recipes

    • Brie mac and cheese.
      Brie Mac and Cheese
    • Steak pasta casserole.
      This Is How I Make My Dinner Cook Itself
    • Gorgonzola tortellini casserole.
      Gorgonzola Tortellini Casserole With Walnuts
    • Buffalo mac and cheese.
      Buffalo Mac and Cheese

    About Emmeline Kemperyd

    Emmeline Kemperyd is a writer, food blogger, recipe creator and food photographer and the founder of alwaysusebutter.com. She has 20+ years experience creating and simplifying recipes so they taste good, and are quick, easy, and approachable. She is a regular contributor to MSN and her work has been featured by The Guardian, Well+Good, Vulture, SheKnows, Good Men Project, and The Feed Feed, among others.

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    No Comments

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

    Primary Sidebar

    Hi, I'm Emmeline! I love tasty food, but I'm always in a hurry. And I have the quick and easy recipes to prove it!

    More about me →

    Popular Recipes

    • Sliced air fryer roast beef.
      Herb Crusted Air Fryer Roast Beef
    • top down view of a tortellini casserole
      Cheesy Tortellini Casserole with Spinach
    • Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake [Dump and bake!]
    • sliced rib eye steak topped with salt
      How to Cook a Rib Eye Steak Without a Cast Iron Skillet (3 Methods)

    Popular Articles

    • A spoonful of seafood pasta bake.
      27 Dinner Casseroles So Good You’ll Want to Make Them Every Week
    • CREAMY BAKED ZITI.
      Dump, Bake, and Enjoy: 40 Gourmet Dinners Made Simple
    • Turkey hash.
      12 Leftover Recipes That Are Even Better Than Thanksgiving Dinner
    • Cooked bell peppers.
      14 Air Fryer Sides That Make Any Dinner Better

    We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

    All affiliate links are always marked with "*" or "affiliate".

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    A collage of sites where always use butter content has been featured.

    About

    • About
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms and Conditions
    • Disclaimer
    • Disclosures
    • Editorial Policy
    • Accessibility Policy

    Newsletter

    • Sign Up!

    Contact

    • Contact
    • info@alwaysusebutter.com
    • Pink Giraffe Ventures AB, Runstens Byväg 51, 147 91 Grödinge, Sweden
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest

    Copyright © 2018-2025 Pink Giraffe Ventures AB