We’re letting you know that this post contains sponsored links which Your Savvy Purse receives compensation for, which may impact their order of appearance.
Feeding a family of four doesn’t have to mean complicated recipes or endless prep. With a handful of basic ingredients, you can whip up delicious, comforting dinners that everyone will love. Whether you’re short on time or just trying to keep things budget-friendly, here are five easy dinner ideas that check all the boxes.
1. One-Pan Baked Chicken and Veggies
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless chicken thighs or breasts
- 3 cups chopped veggies (carrots, potatoes, broccoli, etc.)
- Olive oil
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning
How to Make It:
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Arrange chicken and chopped veggies on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and veggies are tender. Easy cleanup, and it all cooks together!
2. Spaghetti with Garlic Butter and Peas
Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 4 tbsp butter
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper
How to Make It:
Cook spaghetti according to the package. While it boils, melt butter in a skillet, sauté garlic for 1–2 minutes, then toss in the peas until heated through. Drain the pasta, add it to the skillet, and toss everything together. Sprinkle with Parmesan and serve!
3. Taco Night with Ground Beef or Turkey
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 8 taco shells or tortillas
- Shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream
How to Make It:
Brown the ground meat in a skillet, drain excess fat, then stir in taco seasoning and a splash of water. Let simmer for 5 minutes. Load up the taco shells with the meat and your favorite toppings. A fun, build-your-own dinner that kids love.
4. Easy Fried Rice with Eggs and Veggies
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked rice (leftover rice works best)
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup mixed frozen veggies
- 2–3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oil
How to Make It:
Heat oil in a pan, scramble the eggs, then set aside. Add a bit more oil, sauté the veggies until warm, then stir in the rice. Pour in soy sauce and mix well. Add the scrambled eggs back in and stir. Done in under 20 minutes!
5. Sheet Pan Sausage and Potatoes
Ingredients:
- 4 sausages (chicken, pork, or veggie)
- 4 medium potatoes, chopped
- 1 onion, sliced
- Olive oil, salt, pepper, rosemary or thyme
How to Make It:
Preheat oven to 425°F. Toss potatoes and onion with olive oil and seasonings. Spread on a sheet pan and bake for 15 minutes. Add sausages and bake another 20–25 minutes, turning halfway. Everything comes out crispy and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
Simple doesn’t have to mean boring! These meals are easy on your time, budget, and pantry—but still deliver big on flavor and family appeal. Keep ingredients flexible, use what you’ve got, and make it your own.
Got a go-to easy dinner your family loves? Share it in the comments!