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    Home » Trending

    33 Bold & Flavor-Packed Mains To Take Your Dinner To The Next Level

    Published: Feb 19, 2025 by Kristen Wood · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

    Got dinner plans? Think again. It's time to spice things up with dishes that pack a punch. Get ready to wow at the dinner table with flavors that'll make every bite unforgettable. Let's take dinner from "just okay" to "oh wow" with some bold moves in the kitchen.

    Adzuki Bean Coconut Curry

    Adzuki Bean Coconut Curry. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Opting for something meat-free doesn't mean compromising on depth and richness. Adzuki Bean Coconut Curry is a testament to how beans and coconut milk can create an explosion of flavor. It's a vegan-friendly dish that'll have everyone asking for seconds.
    Get the Recipe: Adzuki Bean Coconut Curry

    Beef Stew Goulash Instant Pot

    Goulash inside white casserole.
    Beef Stew Goulash Instant Pot. Photo credit: Low Carb - No Carb.

    Want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen? Beef Stew Goulash Instant Pot comes together fast. It’s loaded with beef and spices, proving fast food can still be homemade and hearty.
    Get the Recipe: Beef Stew Goulash Instant Pot

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    Camarones a la Diabla

    Shrimp in red chile sauce on a white plate with lime wedges and a fork in the background.
    Camarones a la Diabla. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

    Spice lovers, here's something that will heat up your mealtime like no other. Camarones a la Diabla are shrimp drenched in a fiery sauce that promises to awaken all your senses. Just be ready with a drink to cool down!
    Get the Recipe: Camarones a la Diabla

    Chicken Chop Suey

    Bowl of chicken chop suey with fork.
    Chicken Chop Suey. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Stir-frying pieces of tender chicken with crisp veggies gives you a classic dish that's always a hit at dinner time. Grab your wok for Chicken Chop Suey. It's that easy weeknight meal you've been looking for.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Chop Suey

    Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs

    Slow cooker country style ribs on a tray on top of mashed potatoes with corn.
    Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

    When you want your ribs fall-off-the-bone tender, slow cooking is the way to go with Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs. Seasoned to perfection, they’re a fuss-free path to mouthwatering delight. It’s like bringing home a taste of the country.
    Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs

    Instant Pot Millet + Pinto Bean Vegan Chili

    Instant Pot Millet + Pinto Bean Vegan Chili. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Harness the power of your Instant Pot to whip up a chili that's not only vegan but also full of bold flavors. Instant Pot Millet + Pinto Bean Vegan Chili is what weeknight dinner dreams are made of. Quick, nutritious, and packed with flavors.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Millet + Pinto Bean Vegan Chili

    Low Carb Gnocchi with Fresh Spinach Sauce

    Bright green gnocchi sauce with orange turmeric powder over the gnocchi plate.
    Low Carb Gnocchi with Fresh Spinach Sauce. Photo credit: Low Carb - No Carb.

    Who says you have to give up gnocchi to keep things low carb? Low Carb Gnocchi with Fresh Spinach Sauce comes with a spinach sauce that's as tasty as it is vibrant. It’s a guilt-free pleasure that still feels indulgent.
    Get the Recipe: Low Carb Gnocchi with Fresh Spinach Sauce

    Grilled Flank Steak with Chile Butter

    Sliced flank steak with chili butter.
    Grilled Flank Steak with Chile Butter. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

    Kick your dinner up a notch with some flame-grilled goodness, especially with Grilled Flank Steak with Chile Butter. This steak comes with the added bonus of chile butter for an unforgettable flavor. It's all about bringing the heat to your plate in the best way possible.
    Get the Recipe: Grilled Flank Steak with Chile Butter

    Chicken Divan

    A casserole dish with cheese and broccoli on a napkin.
    Chicken Divan. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This dish involves baking chicken and broccoli in a creamy sauce that's topped with cheese. Chicken Divan is your go-to for a comforting meal that feels like a hug on a plate. Perfect for those nights when you're craving something hearty.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Divan

    Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

    A person dipping fried shrimp into a bowl of dip.
    Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

    Crispy, spicy, and utterly addictive, Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp will have you reaching for more. And thanks to the air fryer, they're a breeze to make. It's your favorite appetizer without the guilt.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

    Vegan Meatloaf

    Vegan Meatloaf. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Who said meatloaf has to have meat? Vegan Meatloaf breaks all the rules with a mix that's both hearty and completely plant-based. It's about getting creative in the kitchen for a meal that surprises.
    Get the Recipe: Vegan Meatloaf

    Juicy and Guilt-Free Portobello Mushroom Burger

    Portobello mushrooms buns with burger in between.
    Juicy and Guilt-Free Portobello Mushroom Burger. Photo credit: Low Carb - No Carb.

    For those nights when only a burger will do, but you're keeping it healthy, Juicy and Guilt-Free Portobello Mushroom Burger is juicy and satisfying, without the guilt. It will make you forget about beef burgers altogether.
    Get the Recipe: Juicy and Guilt-Free Portobello Mushroom Burger

    Char Siu

    Sliced char siu pork with lettuce leaves.
    Char Siu. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

    This is about giving pork that famous honey-sweet and slightly charred finish you love at Chinese restaurants. Making Char Siu at home might just become your new favorite hobby. Who needs takeout when you can create such deliciousness in your own kitchen?
    Get the Recipe: Char Siu

    Chicken Nuggets

    Air fryer chicken nuggets on plate with ketchup.
    Chicken Nuggets. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Everyone loves bite-sized, crispy on the outside, tender on the inside chicken pieces. Chicken Nuggets are not just a kid-favorite but a crowd-pleaser. Serve them up with your favorite dipping sauces for a fun meal.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Nuggets

    Air Fryer Skirt Steak

    Air fryer skirt steak sliced on a cutting board.
    Air Fryer Skirt Steak. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

    Steak night doesn't mean you have to break out the grill, especially with Air Fryer Skirt Steak. This skirt steak gets a perfect sear in the air fryer. It’s all about big flavor in little time.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Skirt Steak

    Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Legs

    Four chicken drumsticks with parsley on a plate.
    Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Legs. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

    Who knew you could get perfectly crispy chicken legs without a deep fryer? With Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Legs, they are seasoned just right and cooked to perfection. It's about making dinner fun and hassle-free.
    Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Legs

    10-Minute Rice Paper Noodles Bowl

    10-Minute Rice Paper Noodles Bowl. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    When speed and flavor need to meet, this dish saves the day with a refreshing, light, and quick option. 10-Minute Rice Paper Noodles Bowl is about tossing in what you love for a personalized meal. Great for those busy evenings.
    Get the Recipe: 10-Minute Rice Paper Noodles Bowl

    Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole

    Cabbage beef casserole inside cast iron.
    Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole. Photo credit: Low Carb - No Carb.

    Casseroles have a way of making dinner seem like a hug in a dish, especially Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole. With beef and cabbage wrapped in a cheesy embrace, it's comfort food at its best. Every bite is like a cozy night in.
    Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole

    Green Chili Chicken Soup

    Overhead shot of a pot of the soup with two bowls of the soup and garnishes.
    Green Chili Chicken Soup. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

    Sometimes, all you need is a soup that packs a punch, like Green Chili Chicken Soup. With hearty chunks of chicken and a kick of green chili, it's anything but boring. It’s the kind of meal that makes any evening feel special.
    Get the Recipe: Green Chili Chicken Soup

    Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

    A bowl of shrimp pasta with lemon and parsley.
    Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Think juicy shrimp tossed in a sauce made of garlic and butter, then mixed with perfectly cooked pasta. Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta brings a little bit of seafood luxury to your dining table. It's a guaranteed way to impress with minimal effort.
    Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

    Guinness Beef Stew

    Top view of a bowl of Guinness beef stew with a black checked napkin and a spoon.
    Guinness Beef Stew. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

    Beer and beef come together for a stew that's rich in flavor and heritage, like Guinness Beef Stew. Using Guinness adds a depth that's hard to match. It’s like a cozy pub meal without ever leaving home.
    Get the Recipe: Guinness Beef Stew

    Easy Cheese Enchiladas Casserole

    Easy Cheese Enchiladas Casserole. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Layered with flavors and textures that melt in your mouth, making it a cheesy delight. Easy Cheese Enchiladas Casserole takes the fuss out of rolling enchiladas but keeps all the taste. Ideal for a comforting meal any day of the week.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Cheese Enchiladas Casserole

    Palmini Baked Fetta Pasta

    Baked palmini with feta in a light blue casserole.
    Palmini Baked Fetta Pasta. Photo credit: Low Carb - No Carb.

    Low carb doesn't mean low flavor, especially with a dish like Palmini Baked Fetta Pasta on your menu. Creamy feta and tender pasta make it a must-try for anyone. It's a fresh take on your pasta night that you won't regret.
    Get the Recipe: Palmini Baked Fetta Pasta

    Chicken Biryani

    Chicken biryani on a plate with raita.
    Chicken Biryani. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

    It's an aromatic, spice-infused dish that brings a piece of Indian cuisine right to your table. Chicken Biryani combines rice, chicken, and a medley of spices in a meal that's as luxurious as it is comforting. Perfect for when you're in the mood for something exotic.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Biryani

    Pan-Fried Pork Chops

    Pork chops on a plate with rosemary sprigs.
    Pan-Fried Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    There's something about pan-frying that gives pork chops a flavorful, golden crust. Pan-Fried Pork Chops could be your next dinner favorite, especially when you're short on time. It's simple but incredibly satisfying.
    Get the Recipe: Pan-Fried Pork Chops

    Air Fryer Breaded Pork Chops

    Two breaded pork chops on a gray plate with parsley.
    Air Fryer Breaded Pork Chops. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

    Say goodbye to dry, bland pork chops because Air Fryer Breaded Pork Chops come out juicy and full of flavor. It's a weeknight meal game-changer.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Breaded Pork Chops

    Easy Air Fryer Rice Paper Dumplings

    Easy Air Fryer Rice Paper Dumplings. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    Exploring the wonders of air frying can lead you to making crispy, yet tender dumplings. With Easy Air Fryer Rice Paper Dumplings, you get to enjoy a healthier version of your fried favorites. They're perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself!
    Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Rice Paper Dumplings

    Baked Stuffed Pork Chops

    A plate of pork chops stuffed with mushrooms and cheese served with green beans.
    Baked Stuffed Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Imagine pork chops taken to the next level with a delicious stuffing. Baked Stuffed Pork Chops offer you a meal that's both fancy enough for guests and easy enough for any day. They're like little gifts of flavor waiting to be unwrapped.
    Get the Recipe: Baked Stuffed Pork Chops

    Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Dish

    A plate of stuffing with chicken on a table next to a skillet.
    Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Dish. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Combining the comfort of stuffing with tender chicken pieces, covered in a creamy sauce. Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Dish serves up comfort in every bite. It’s your go-to recipe when you need something hearty and fulfilling.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Dish

    Slow Cooker Chili Mac

    Cheese covered slow cooker chili mac in the crock pot with a wooden spoon.
    Slow Cooker Chili Mac. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

    Combine the magic of chili and macaroni in Slow Cooker Chili Mac, and let the slow cooker do the work. It’s the ultimate comfort food mash-up. Perfect for when you need something both easy and irresistibly good.
    Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chili Mac

    Chicken Hot and Sour Soup

    Two bowls of hot and sour soup.
    Chicken Hot and Sour Soup. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

    If you're craving something spicy and tangy, Chicken Hot and Sour Soup is the answer. It's a blend of bold flavors that will wake up your dinner routine. Perfect for when you need a little warmth from the inside out.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Hot and Sour Soup

    Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili

    Cincinnatti chili on top of spaghetti and covered with cheese, beans and onions.
    Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

    There's chili, and then there's Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili with a unique twist that sets it apart from the rest. Let it simmer all day for a meal that's rich in flavor and history.
    Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili

    Olive Garden Gnocchi Soup

    Bowl of copycat Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup in a bowl with breadsticks in the background.
    Olive Garden Gnocchi Soup. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

    Bringing a restaurant favorite into your kitchen is easier than you think, especially with Olive Garden Gnocchi Soup. This soup has all the creamy goodness of the Olive Garden classic. It’s a bowl of comfort on any day.
    Get the Recipe: Olive Garden Gnocchi Soup

    About Kristen Wood

    Kristen Wood is a writer, photographer, world traveler and cookbook author. Her work has been featured in various publications both online and in print, including Elle, Forbes, NBC, Chicago Sun-Times, Martha Stewart, Food Drink Life, Arizona Highways Magazine, New York Daily News, and more. She is also a syndicated writer for The Associated Press.

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