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    Home » Recipe Roundups

    49 Effortless Sunday Night Dinners Ready in 40 Minutes or Less

    By Emmeline Kemperyd on June 15, 2024, updated November 27, 2024 - Leave a Comment

    Sunday nights can be hectic, but dinner doesn't have to be. With these 49 easy recipes, you can whip up a satisfying meal in 40 minutes or less, leaving you more time to relax and enjoy the evening. From quick pastas to simple stir-fries, these dishes are perfect for a stress-free end to the weekend.

    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 easy to prepare with just four ingredients and some store-bought items. You can have it ready in 5 minutes and on the table in under 40 minutes.

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    Cottage Pie

    Cottage Pie.
    Photo Credit: Our Love Language is Food.

    This recipe features a comforting beef and vegetable filling topped with cheesy mashed potatoes, just like a classic cottage pie. With some easy ingredients, you can whip this up in 30 minutes, making it a great choice for a quick family dinner.

    Get the Recipe

    Gorgonzola Gnocchi

    Grogonzola gnocchi.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    Enjoy a creamy Gorgonzola Gnocchi dish that's full of crunch and veggies, all ready in under 20 minutes. This is a quick and easy meal perfect for a relaxed Sunday night.

    Get the recipe

    Cheesy Chicken Taco Casserole

    Cheesy Chicken Taco Casserole with cream.
    Photo Credit: Midwest Foodie.

    Enjoy a filling combination of shredded chicken, onions, bell peppers, black beans, corn, salsa, rice, and plenty of cheese. This is a simple and delicious meal for a Sunday night that you can have on the table in under 40 minutes!

    Get the recipe

    Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken

    Parmesan crusted chicken on a plate.
    Photo Credit: Midwest Foodie.

    This Parmesan crusted chicken is quick and easy to prepare, taking just 15 minutes with a few simple ingredients. It's perfect for a tasty dinner without spending too much time in the kitchen.

    Get the recipe

    Chicken Pot Pie Casserole

    Chicken Pot Pie Casserole.
    Photo Credit: Cook Dinner Tonight.

    Chicken pot pie casserole is a cozy dish filled with chicken and vegetables in a creamy sauce, all covered with a quick biscuit topping. It's perfect for a relaxing Sunday night dinner that comes together in no time.

    Get the Recipe

    Pea and Bacon Risotto

    A bowl of pea and bacon risotto.
    Image credit: Sarah Cook.

    This risotto with bacon and peas is a great choice for a cozy Sunday night dinner. It’s quick to prepare and ready in just 40 minutes.

    Get the recipe

    French Onion Chicken Casserole

    French Onion Chicken Casserole.
    Photo Credit: The Cookin' Chicks.

    French Onion Chicken Casserole combines juicy chicken with savory French onion flavors and a crunchy topping, making it a great option for dinner. With just a handful of easy ingredients, it’s also perfect for preparing meals ahead of time for the week.

    Get the Recipe

    One Pot Creamy Chicken Soup

    A bowl of creamy chicken soup.
    Photo Credit: Midwest Foodie.

    This dish combines ditalini pasta, shredded chicken, and vegetables in a creamy broth. It's a comforting meal that's great for a laid-back Sunday night with family.

    Get the recipe

    Walking Taco Casserole

    Walking taco casserole.
    Photo credit: Emmeline Kemperyd.

    This casserole is a tasty mix of taco flavors that comes together quickly. With ground beef, salsa, and lots of cheese, it's great for a fast dinner or to bring to a gathering.

    Get the recipe

    Spicy Sausage Pasta

    Spicy sausage pasta.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    Enjoy a simple and tasty dinner featuring spicy sausage, pasta, and Parmesan cheese. This is a great meal for a laid-back Sunday night.

    Get the recipe

    Shrimp Mei Fun

    Shrimp mei fun.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    Shrimp Mei Fun is a quick and easy dish that you can prepare at home, loaded with fresh veggies for a fulfilling family dinner. This simple recipe is perfect for a tasty meal that you'll enjoy making over and over.

    Get the recipe

    One Pan Fish & Broccoli in Lemon Butter Caper Sauce

    A skillet full of fish and broccoli in lemon caper sauce.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    A simple lemon butter caper sauce pairs perfectly with fish and broccoli, all prepared in one pan. This is a quick and easy dinner option for a relaxed Sunday night.

    Get the recipe

    Air Fryer Turkey Burgers

    A turkey burger.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    Enjoy tasty Air Fryer Turkey Burgers that come together in under 40 minutes. Just season them with some spices and fresh lemon juice for added juiciness, and there's no chopping required.

    Get the recipe

    Chili Sin Carne with Black Beans

    Easy Vegetarian Chili Sin Carne with Black Beans
    Photo credit: always use butter

    This Vegetarian Chili Sin Carne is full of great flavors from zucchini, eggplant, and green bell pepper. It’s quick to prepare, taking less than 40 minutes, and is perfect for a simple Sunday night dinner.

    Get the recipe

    Sundried Tomato Pasta with Chicken

    Sundried Tomato Pasta with Chicken
    Photo credit: Always use butter

    Sundried Tomato Pasta with Chicken is a quick and delicious dish that you can prepare in under 20 minutes. The creamy sauce combines crème fraîche, sun-dried tomatoes, and dried herbs, creating a flavorful meal that's perfect for a Sunday night.

    Get the recipe

    Furikake Salmon

    Fruikake salmon.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    Crispy Furikake Salmon is a delicious Asian-inspired dish that combines Japanese soy sauce with tasty Furikake seasoning. It's a quick meal that you can whip up in just 22 minutes, making it great for busy nights, and pairs well with rice or vegetables.

    Get the recipe

    Shrimp Carbonara

    Shrimp carbonara.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    Shrimp Carbonara is a quick and delicious dish that you can whip up in just 10 minutes. This creamy pasta combines the classic flavors of Carbonara with tender shrimp for a satisfying meal.

    Get the recipe

    Gnocchi with Bacon & Mushrooms

    A spoonful of bacon mushroom gnocchi.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    Pan-fried gnocchi is a simple and delicious dish. And when you add bacon and mushrooms, you get a dish with incredible flavor!

    Get the recipe

    Firecracker Salmon

    Firecracker salmon on a teal plate.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    Firecracker Salmon is a quick and easy dinner that you can whip up in just 15 minutes. This dish features a zesty sauce that pairs perfectly with the salmon, making it a great choice for a weeknight meal.

    Get the recipe

    Cauliflower Steak

    Two cauliflower steaks in a pan.
    Photo credit: My Pure Plants.

    These vegan cauliflower steaks have a crispy outside and a soft inside. Just slice the cauliflower, give it a quick cook, season it well, and pan-fry for a tasty meal in under 40 minutes.

    Get the recipe

    Mushroom Truffle Risotto

    Mushroom truffle risotto.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    Enjoy a delicious dinner featuring mushrooms, truffles, and lots of butter. This dish is perfect for a cozy Sunday night.

    Get the recipe

    Shrimp Curry

    Shrimp curry in a skillet.
    Photo credit: alwaysusebutter.com.

    A quick and flavorful Shrimp Curry with Thai red curry paste and coconut milk is ready in under 20 minutes. This is a great choice for a simple and satisfying Sunday night dinner.

    Get the recipe

    Creamy Pesto Pasta Bake

    Creamy Pesto Pasta Bake.
    Photo credit: Rich and Delish.

    This pesto pasta bake is creamy and cheesy, and it all comes together in one pan. It's perfect for a quick and easy dinner that doesn't require much work.

    Get the recipe

    Sheet Pan Salmon Oreganata

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

    This sheet pan dinner is an easy and delicious option for a laid-back Sunday night. With its crunchy coating and lively flavors, everyone in the family will enjoy it.

    Get the recipe

    Cheesy Tortellini Casserole

    A spoonful of cheesy tortellini casserole.
    Photo credit: alwaysusebutter.com.

    Enjoy a quick and comforting dinner that's both easy to make and satisfying. This dish is cheesy and delicious, perfect for a relaxed Sunday night.

    Get the recipe

    Grilled Lemon Chicken

    Grilled lemon chicken.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    A simple Lemon Chicken Marinade brings together fresh ingredients for a delicious meal. This dish is great for grilling, pan frying, or baking, resulting in juicy chicken with a bright flavor from olive oil, lemon, and basil.

    Get the recipe

    Halloumi Pasta Primavera

    Halloumi pasta primavera.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    In under 40 minutes, you can prepare a delicious vegetarian halloumi pasta loaded with fresh vegetables. This dinner is light and refreshing, showcasing the natural flavors of the veggies without any cream.

    Get the recipe

    Lemon Pepper Salmon

    Baked lemon pepper salmon.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This lemon-infused salmon dish is perfect for a relaxing Sunday night dinner. It comes together in about 20 minutes, making it an easy choice for a weeknight meal.

    Get the recipe

    Pork Chops with Mushrooms & Red Wine

    Pork chops with red wine and mushrooms.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    Pork chops are topped with a delicious blend of red wine, mushrooms, and thyme, making a simple dinner that you can whip up in under 40 minutes. This is a great option for a relaxed Sunday night meal.

    Get the recipe

    Bacon Wrapped Salmon with Garlic Butter

    Bacon wrapped salmon.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    Stuff salmon with garlic butter and wrap it in bacon for a quick and delicious dinner. This family favorite is simple to prepare and can be ready in under 40 minutes.

    Get the recipe

    Pink Pasta Sauce with Bacon

    Pink pasta with bacon.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This dish features a tasty mix of creamy tomato sauce and bacon. It's perfect for a quick and satisfying Sunday night dinner that you can whip up in 40 minutes or less.

    Get the recipe

    Spanish Chicken Stew with Lemon & Rosemary

    Spanish chicken stew with rice.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This stew is simple to make with a rotisserie chicken from the store and is full of great flavors. It's perfect for a cozy Sunday night dinner that won't take much time to prepare.

    Get the recipe

    Sheet Pan Halloumi Tacos

    Halloumi tacos.
    Image credit: Hey Nutrition Lady.

    Halloumi tacos are a quick and easy option for a laid-back Sunday dinner. They come together in no time, making them ideal for a stress-free evening.

    Get the recipe

    Teriyaki Salmon

    Teriyaki salmon.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    Enjoy a quick and easy salmon dish with teriyaki sauce that’s perfect for a relaxed Sunday night dinner. This meal is ready in just 40 minutes, making it a great choice for a busy evening.

    Get the recipe

    Shrimp & Asparagus Risotto

    A spoonful of shrimp risotto.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This dinner features shrimp, asparagus, Parmesan cheese, and white wine for a quick and delicious meal. It's an easy option that's great for a laid-back Sunday night.

    Get the recipe

    Instant Pot Chicken Stew

    Chicken stew.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    Sunday nights can be easy with this quick Instant Pot Chicken Stew. After just 10 minutes of prep, it cooks on its own for a hearty dinner packed with veggies in under 45 minutes.

    Get the recipe

    Smoked Salmon Risotto

    Smoked salmon risotto.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    Enjoy a quick and easy smoked salmon risotto that comes together with very little stirring. This dish is perfect for a relaxed Sunday night dinner and can be ready in under 40 minutes.

    Get the recipe

    Instant Pot Chicken Soup

    A bowl of chicken soup.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    Enjoy a warm and filling Instant Pot Chicken Soup that comes together in just over an hour. Creamy with a touch of spice, it's ideal for a cozy Sunday night dinner.

    Get the recipe

    Air Fryer Burgers

    An air fryer burger.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    Enjoy juicy hamburgers cooked in your air fryer or on the grill in under 10 minutes. Add your favorite toppings for a quick and satisfying meal.

    Get the recipe

    Ranch Sheet Pan Chicken & Veggies

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

    This easy sheet pan chicken dinner with veggies is perfect for families on busy Sunday nights. Just toss everything together, bake it, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.

    Get the recipe

    Buffalo Cauliflower Tacos

    Buffalo cauliflower tacos.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    Buffalo Cauliflower Tacos are a great way to enjoy those spicy buffalo flavors. With creamy avocado, tangy blue cheese sauce, and fresh cilantro, this meal comes together in under 40 minutes, whether you use the oven or air fryer.

    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 flavor and come with veggies, making dinner easy and quick in under 40 minutes. This is a great low-carb meal that the whole family will enjoy.

    Get the recipe

    Creamy Broccoli Pasta

    Broccoli pasta.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    Enjoy a quick and creamy Broccoli Pasta that you can whip up in under 30 minutes. This vegetarian dish highlights the fresh veggies, making it a healthier choice for dinner.

    Get the recipe

    Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

    Air fried chicken cordon bleu.
    Image credit: Sarah Cook.

    This homemade version of a popular restaurant dish is sure to impress your family. It's perfect for a Sunday night dinner and can be ready in 40 minutes or less.

    Get the recipe

    Chicken Teriyaki Stir-fry

    Chicken teriyaki.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This Chicken Teriyaki Stir Fry is a quick and delicious meal that comes together in just 25 minutes, featuring chicken, broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots. It's a satisfying low-carb option on its own or can be served with noodles or rice for a heartier dish, and you can easily use frozen vegetables and your favorite Teriyaki sauce.

    Get the recipe

    Salmon Risotto

    A spoonful of salmon risotto.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This salmon risotto features crispy pan-fried salmon and a mix of great flavors. It's a simple dish that's perfect for a cozy Sunday night dinner.

    Get the recipe

    Air Fryer Cornish Hens

    A cornish hen on a plate.
    Image credit: Sarah Cook.

    Air frying whole cornish hens is a quick and tasty way to simplify your Sunday night dinner. This is a great option for a cozy date night or a laid-back end to the weekend.

    Get the recipe

    Cheeseburger Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls

    Cheeseburger sliders.
    Photo credit: House of Yumm.

    Mini cheeseburger sliders made with Hawaiian rolls come together in just 30 minutes, making them a simple dinner option. Packed with juicy ground beef, melted cheese, and zesty pickles, these sliders are great for family meals or a fun snack.

    Get the recipe

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    About Emmeline Kemperyd

    Emmeline Kemperyd is a writer, food blogger, recipe creator and food photographer and the founder of alwaysusebutter.com. She has more than 20 years of 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, Daily Kos, The Grio, The Asian Parent, and The Feed Feed, among others.

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