Back-to-school season often brings a whirlwind of homework, activities, and last-minute supply runs, leaving many parents scrambling to figure out what’s for dinner. But just because your evenings are hectic doesn’t mean mealtime has to be stressful. With easy, tried-and-true recipes in your rotation, you can serve dinners that are quick to prepare, kid-approved, and satisfying for the whole family. Whether you’re looking for comforting casseroles, speedy pasta dishes, or simple sheet pan meals, these back-to-school recipes will help you get dinner on the table with minimal fuss, so you can focus on enjoying these busy but precious moments with your family.
Twice-Baked Potato Casserole
Kids love potatoes in every form, from crispy fries to creamy mashed to crunchy tater tots. This twice-baked potato is an all-star dinner that is creamy, extra cheesy, and bursting with flavor. Recipe: Twice-Baked Potato Casserole
Taco Mac & Cheese
Combine these two classic comforts to create a fun and flavorful dinner your entire family will practically inhale. Seasoned ground beef and a few boxes of Velveeta Shells & Cheese are all you need to make this fast dinner idea. Recipe: Taco Mac & Cheese
Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole
Cream cheese may not be an ingredient you think of when it comes to pasta sauce, but it makes everything extra creamy and delicious! You’ve got to try it in this trending ground beef dinner casserole. Recipe: Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole
Honey Chicken
Rustle up this family-friendly honey chicken, flavored with garlic, soy sauce, lemon and ginger, in 30 minutes. Serve with rice and broccoli for a filling meal. Recipe: Honey Chicken
Chicken, Sausage, Peppers and Potatoes
Sheet pan dinners make everything easier on the cook in your house. They usually only need some sort of green vegetable to round out the plate, too. This one has the bonus of both chicken and sausage, so there is something for even the pickiest eater in your family, and some bright lemony green beans are the ideal accompaniment. Recipe: Chicken, Sausage, Peppers and Potatoes
Sloppy Joe Casserole
The under 30 minute prep time may have you loving this recipe as much as the kiddos. This recipe is a fan-favorite because it’s meaty, cheesy, and topped with sweet-buttery rolls. Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole
Fish Finger Hot Dogs
A twist on a classic fish finger sandwich the whole family will love. Try lightly salting the cod to firm it up before cooking. Recipe: Fish Finger Hot Dogs
BBQ Beef Cups and Coleslaw
If you want some of that summer barbeque flavor but don’t have time in your busy back-to-school schedule to fire up the grill, these barbecue beef cups will save the day. Paired with a slaw that can be made all the easier with store-bought spiralized vegetables, it’s a fresh take on an old favorite. Recipe: Beef Cups and Coleslaw
Beef Teriyaki Skillet
Beef Teriyaki Skillet is an easy dinner with only 6 ingredients and it’s all made in just one pot. Lean ground beef, teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic are all you need for this super easy dinner recipe. Serve over rice and garnish with green onions. Recipe: Beef Teriyaki Skillet
Skillet Chipotle Chicken Enchilada Bake
When you layer together shredded enchilada chicken with all the cheese, tortillas, black beans and corn it’s basically a recipe for success. Recipe: Skillet Chipotle Chicken Enchilada Bake
Final Thoughts
Back-to-school nights may be busy, but with a few easy, family-friendly recipes up your sleeve, dinner can be one less thing to worry about. From quick pasta dishes to comforting casseroles, these simple meals help you keep weeknights calm, delicious, and connected. We’d love to hear from you! What are your favorite go-to recipes when the school year ramps up? Share your best back-to-school dinner ideas in the comments below and let’s build a resource of easy weeknight meals together.