18 Delicious Stove Top Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Weeknights are hectic, but dinner doesn’t have to be! Dive into our roundup of 18 Delicious Stove Top Recipes designed for those busy evenings when time is tight but cravings are big. From cozy comfort foods to quick, seasonal favorites, these dishes promise to deliver flavor without the fuss. Let’s turn your stove into the weeknight hero you deserve—keep scrolling for recipes that’ll make everyone at the table happy!

Classic Beef Stroganoff

Nothing beats the comforting embrace of a creamy, savory Classic Beef Stroganoff after a long day. This version keeps it simple yet utterly delicious, perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special.

Ingredients

• 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 oz egg noodles, cooked according to package directions
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 2 minutes. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their juices, about 5 minutes.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, stirring to combine. Gradually add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 3 minutes.
4. Return the beef to the skillet, reduce heat to low, and stir in the sour cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until everything is heated through.
5. Serve the stroganoff over cooked egg noodles, garnished with fresh parsley.

The magic of this stroganoff lies in the balance of tangy Worcestershire and Dijon against the rich sour cream, creating a sauce that’s both vibrant and comforting.

Tip: For an even richer flavor, let the stroganoff sit for a few minutes off the heat before serving—this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a dreamy, indulgent dish that comes together in just 20 minutes, perfect for those nights when you crave something luxurious without the fuss.

Ingredients

• 8 oz fettuccine pasta
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream, and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Continue to cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly in the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the pasta is well coated and heated through.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the velvety sauce that clings to every strand of pasta, offering a rich garlicky flavor with a hint of spice. It’s a simple yet sophisticated meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the garlic in the butter until just golden before adding the cream.

One-Pot Chicken Alfredo

Dive into the creamy, comforting world of One-Pot Chicken Alfredo, where tender pasta and juicy chicken come together in a rich, garlicky sauce for a fuss-free dinner that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 8 oz fettuccine pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir to combine.
3. Add the fettuccine pasta to the pot, ensuring it’s fully submerged in the liquid. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
4. Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. The magic of this dish lies in its velvety sauce that clings perfectly to every strand of pasta, offering a luxurious bite every time.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, toast the fettuccine in a dry pan before adding it to the pot—this simple step deepens the pasta’s nutty notes.

Spicy Sausage and Rice Skillet

This Spicy Sausage and Rice Skillet is a one-pan wonder that brings the heat and the heartiness to your dinner table in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the spicy Italian sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the rice, chicken broth, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
5. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Stir in the chopped parsley before serving.

The smoked paprika adds a deep, smoky flavor that perfectly complements the spicy sausage, making this dish a standout for its bold flavors and simple preparation.

Tip: For an extra kick, serve with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Homemade Mac and Cheese

Nothing says comfort like a bowl of creamy, homemade mac and cheese. This classic dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly simple to whip up.

Ingredients

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cups milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish.
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
3. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour, salt, black pepper, and paprika until smooth.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk, bringing the mixture to a boil. Cook and stir for 2 minutes until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted.
6. Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni, then pour into the prepared baking dish.
7. Bake for 25 minutes until bubbly and lightly browned on top.

The secret to this mac and cheese’s irresistible creaminess? A perfect blend of sharp cheddar and Parmesan, melted into a velvety sauce that clings to every noodle.

Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Stove Top Chili Con Carne

Nothing warms up a chilly evening like a hearty bowl of Stove Top Chili Con Carne, packed with rich flavors and just the right amount of spice.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup beef broth

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let the chili simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

The secret to this chili’s depth of flavor lies in the slow simmering, which melds the spices beautifully with the tomatoes and beef.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a diced jalapeño with the onions and garlic.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is a quick, flavorful dish that brings a touch of elegance to your weeknight dinner table, with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup dry white wine
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 8 oz linguine pasta

Instructions

1. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque.
4. Pour in white wine and lemon juice, simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Add cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the garlic butter sauce.
6. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the balance of tangy lemon and rich butter, creating a sauce that clings perfectly to every strand of pasta.

Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, zest a little lemon over the finished dish before serving.

Vegetable Stir Fry with Tofu

Whip up this vibrant Vegetable Stir Fry with Tofu for a quick, nutritious meal that’s bursting with flavor and color.

Ingredients

• 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and cook until golden on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, heat remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil. Add red bell pepper, broccoli, and carrot. Stir fry for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender.
3. Add garlic and ginger to the skillet, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Return tofu to the skillet. Pour in soy sauce, maple syrup, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Toss everything together and cook for another 2 minutes to combine flavors.
5. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

The magic of this stir fry lies in the perfect balance of sweet maple syrup and spicy red pepper flakes, creating a dish that’s irresistibly flavorful.

Tip: Pressing the tofu beforehand ensures it gets wonderfully crispy in the stir fry.

Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs

These Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs are a bright and flavorful dish that’s perfect for spicing up your weeknight dinner routine.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup chicken broth

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken thighs with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Place them skin-side down in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy.
3. Flip the chicken thighs and add 1 tablespoon minced garlic, 1 tablespoon thyme leaves, and 1 tablespoon chopped rosemary around them. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the zest and juice of 1 lemon and 1/2 cup chicken broth to the skillet. Stir to combine, then transfer the skillet to the oven.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
6. Serve the chicken thighs with the pan juices spooned over the top. The combination of crispy skin, tender meat, and bright lemon-herb sauce makes this dish a standout.

Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, let the chicken thighs marinate in the lemon juice and herbs for an hour before cooking.

Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

Craving a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner? This Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry brings the takeout experience right to your kitchen, with a homemade touch that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, beef broth, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
2. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add broccoli and stir fry for 3 minutes until bright green but still crisp. Remove and set aside.
3. Add remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil to the skillet. Add flank steak and garlic, stir frying for 2 minutes until the beef is just browned.
4. Return broccoli to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the beef and broccoli, stirring constantly for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.

The magic of this dish lies in the velvety sauce that clings to each piece of beef and broccoli, creating a perfect balance of savory and sweet with just a hint of heat.

Tip: For an extra tender beef, marinate the sliced flank steak in 1 tbsp soy sauce and 1 tbsp cornstarch for 15 minutes before cooking.

Cajun Jambalaya with Shrimp and Sausage

Dive into the heart of Southern cooking with this vibrant Cajun Jambalaya, packed with succulent shrimp and smoky sausage for a one-pot wonder that’s bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add andouille sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, and oregano; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add diced tomatoes with their juice and chicken broth; bring to a boil. Stir in rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Return sausage to the pot. Add shrimp, cover, and cook until shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes. Garnish with green onions before serving.

The magic of this jambalaya lies in the layering of spices and the perfect texture of the rice, absorbing all the rich flavors while keeping each grain distinct.

Tip: For an extra kick, serve with hot sauce on the side and let everyone adjust the heat to their liking.

Tomato Basil Soup

Nothing comforts the soul quite like a bowl of homemade Tomato Basil Soup, especially when it’s bursting with fresh flavors and ready in under an hour.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in tomatoes, vegetable broth, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer to a blender in batches.
4. Stir in heavy cream and heat through for another 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

The secret to this soup’s velvety texture? A final swirl of heavy cream that adds a luxurious richness without overpowering the tomatoes’ natural sweetness.

Tip: For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or omit it entirely for a dairy-free option.

Moroccan Chickpea Stew

Warm up your kitchen with this hearty Moroccan Chickpea Stew, a fragrant blend of spices and tender chickpeas that’s as nourishing as it is flavorful.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add diced tomatoes, chickpeas, vegetable broth, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Stir in fresh cilantro just before serving.

The subtle sweetness of cinnamon paired with the heat of cayenne makes this stew a standout, offering a perfect balance of flavors that’s sure to impress.

Tip: For an extra touch of richness, swirl in a tablespoon of tahini before serving.

Quick and Easy Quesadillas

Whip up these Quick and Easy Quesadillas for a fuss-free meal that’s packed with flavor and ready in minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or a casual snack!

Ingredients

• 4 large flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
• 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Place one tortilla in the skillet, sprinkle with 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese, followed by 1/4 cup chicken, 2 tbsp black beans, 1 tbsp red bell pepper, 1 tbsp cilantro, 1/4 tsp cumin, and a pinch of chili powder and salt.
3. Top with another tortilla and press down gently. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the bottom is golden and the cheese starts to melt.
4. Carefully flip the quesadilla, adding the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil to the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the second side is golden and the cheese is fully melted.
5. Repeat with the remaining ingredients to make a second quesadilla.
6. Cut into wedges and serve hot. The crispy exterior and gooey, flavorful filling make these quesadillas irresistibly good.

Tip: For an extra kick, serve with a side of salsa or sour cream.

Stove Top Pizza with Pepperoni and Mushrooms

Who says you need an oven to enjoy a crispy, cheesy pizza? This Stove Top Pizza with Pepperoni and Mushrooms brings the joy of pizza night to any kitchen, no oven required.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup warm water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/4 cup sliced pepperoni
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon sugar, and 1 teaspoon active dry yeast. Gradually add 1/2 cup warm water and 1 tablespoon olive oil, stirring until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rest for 10 minutes.
3. Roll out the dough to fit your skillet. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the dough for 2 minutes on each side.
4. Spread 1/2 cup pizza sauce over the dough, then top with 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms, and 1/4 cup sliced pepperoni. Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano.
5. Cover the skillet and cook on low heat for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

The magic of this recipe lies in the skillet method, giving the crust a perfect crispness without an oven. It’s a game-changer for pizza lovers without traditional baking tools.

Tip: For an extra crispy crust, let the dough cook uncovered for the last 2 minutes.

Thai Green Curry with Vegetables

Bring the vibrant flavors of Thailand to your kitchen with this easy-to-make Thai Green Curry with Vegetables, a dish that’s as colorful as it is flavorful.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp green curry paste
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup bamboo shoots
• 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 2 tbsp green curry paste and stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Pour in 1 can coconut milk and 1 cup vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
3. Add 1 tbsp brown sugar and 1 tbsp fish sauce, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
4. Add the red bell pepper, zucchini, broccoli, and bamboo shoots. Simmer for 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
5. Stir in 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves just before serving.

The magic of this curry lies in the balance of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors, all brought together by the creamy coconut milk. It’s a quick way to turn simple vegetables into a meal that feels like a special occasion.

Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, serve with a wedge of lime to squeeze over the top.

Savory Lentil Soup

Warm up your kitchen with this hearty Savory Lentil Soup, a comforting bowl that’s packed with flavor and easy to whip up on any weeknight.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup dried green lentils, rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add 1 cup dried green lentils, 4 cups vegetable broth, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1 bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 25 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
4. Remove the bay leaf and stir in 2 tbsp fresh parsley before serving.

The smoked paprika adds a subtle depth to this soup, making it a standout with minimal effort. Perfect for those nights when you crave something nourishing yet straightforward.

Tip: For a thicker soup, blend half of it before adding the parsley, then stir to combine.

Pan-Seared Salmon with Dill Sauce

Nothing beats the simplicity and elegance of pan-seared salmon, especially when it’s topped with a creamy dill sauce that brings out the best in this flavorful fish.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season salmon fillets with salt and black pepper.
2. Place salmon in the skillet, skin-side down, and cook for 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the salmon is cooked through.
3. While the salmon cooks, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, dill, and garlic powder in a small bowl to make the dill sauce.
4. Serve the salmon hot, topped with the dill sauce.

The creamy dill sauce with a hint of lemon perfectly complements the rich, buttery salmon, making this dish a standout for any dinner table.

Tip: For an extra crispy skin, pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel before seasoning and cooking.

Conclusion

With these 18 delicious stove top recipes, busy weeknights just got a whole lot easier—and tastier! Whether you’re in the mood for something quick, healthy, or comforting, there’s a dish here for everyone. We’d love to hear which recipes become your weeknight heroes. Don’t forget to share your favorites in the comments and pin this article to your Pinterest board for easy access. Happy cooking!

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