Spending quality time with loved ones on Sundays is an excellent way to combat the Sunday blues. Many people already have traditions of enjoying a comforting dinner each week with their family and friends, which helps set a positive tone for the upcoming week. While spending time with important people is crucial, the food also plays a significant role in setting the mood and ensuring everyone leaves feeling happy and satisfied.
To help you achieve this, we’ve compiled a list of 25 Sunday dinner ideas that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. From classic Southern dishes like Picnic Fried Chicken and Chicken Pot Pie to comforting crowd-pleasers like Instant Pot Spaghetti, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
Picnic Fried Chicken
Having a reliable fried chicken recipe up your sleeve can be a game-changer on a lazy Sunday. This 3-step process ensures you’ll get crispy, flavorful results that will satisfy your cravings. Whether the sun is shining and you’re planning a picnic or the rain clouds are rolling in and you’re seeking comfort at home, this dish has got you covered.
And when there’s nothing left but leftovers, don’t worry – we’ve also got some reheating tips to ensure every last bite tastes just as good as the first.
Mongolian Beef
Forget about dining out on Sundays. Instead, cook up a delicious Mongolian beef recipe that’s quick and easy to prepare – we’re talking less than 30 minutes! This way, you can enjoy quality time with your family without sacrificing precious hours in the kitchen. Plus, no need to leave the house or deal with restaurant crowds. Simply gather everyone around the table and savor the flavors of a home-cooked meal.
Filet Mignon In Mushroom Sauce
Celebrate life’s special moments with a delicious Sunday dinner at home. Whether you’re marking a milestone or simply want to indulge in a great meal without breaking the bank, there are countless recipes to help you do just that. For a truly impressive spread, why not try grilling up a tender steak? You can achieve restaurant-quality results from the comfort of your own kitchen, all while saving on unnecessary expenses.
Meanwhile, those who dare to attempt beef tenderloin will appreciate the step-by-step guidance provided by this recipe. And don’t worry if you’re not a wine connoisseur – using drinkable red wine adds depth to the dish, but feel free to substitute with beef broth for an alcohol-free alternative.
Classic Spanish Paella
Paella, a beloved Spanish dish, has gained worldwide popularity. For those new to cooking paella, rest assured that you don’t need specialized equipment to create it. However, if you’re keen on making it a staple in your Sunday family gatherings, consider investing in a quality paella pan. This seafood-based recipe is easily adaptable to chicken or pork, offering a versatile base for experimentation.
To achieve the signature separate grain texture, opt for medium-grain Spanish, jasmine, or similar rice varieties. Additionally, start this culinary experience off right by serving a traditional Spanish appetizer, setting the stage for a truly unforgettable meal.
World’s Best Lasagna
Lasagna’s enduring popularity as a go-to Sunday dinner idea can be attributed to its versatility. This particular recipe allows you to make multiple batches without sacrificing taste, ensuring everyone will leave full and satisfied. Plus, freezing it means you can enjoy a comforting, homemade meal on another busy Sunday when time is scarce. The sauce is the true star of this dish, boasting an impressive depth of flavor courtesy of the beef and sausage.
The harmonious blend of spices, meats, and sauce creates a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
Slow Cooker Chipotle Bean Chili
When it comes to meal prep, one of the most effective strategies is to turn your Sunday dinner recipes into meals for the coming days. This not only saves time and reduces stress but also ensures that you have a delicious and comforting option readily available whenever hunger strikes.
Take, for instance, this slow cooker chipotle bean chili – a hearty vegetarian dish that’s so flavorful, you won’t even miss the meat!
With its rich and slightly smoky flavor profile, it pairs perfectly with a side of fluffy rice or crusty bread. Alternatively, you can simply enjoy it straight up, sans accompaniments.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility – make a large batch and store it in the fridge or freezer for up to several days, allowing you to enjoy the fruits of your labor whenever you please.
Crockpot Chicken And Dumplings
One of the best-kept secrets about this mouthwatering chicken and dumplings recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to prepare. In fact, you’ll only need to devote around 15 minutes of hands-on time before letting the crockpot do its magic for the remainder of the cooking process. And trust us – once people take a bite, they’ll be clamoring for your Sunday dinner recipes! But don’t worry about sharing the secrets behind this comforting meal; it’s just that good.
Both kids and adults will go wild over the rich flavors and textures. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, including roasted veggies like asparagus or green beans.
Million Dollar Pork Chops
Get ready to make Sunday dinner a real showstopper with this mouthwatering pork chop recipe! The addition of melted cheese and crispy bacon takes an already tasty dish to the next level. To make mealtime even easier, you can prepare your toppings ahead of time or pre-season your pork chops for maximum flavor. And don’t forget to check out our side dish ideas to round out this hearty meal.
Plus, if you’re left with leftovers, there are countless ways to repurpose your pork chops in new and exciting recipes – the possibilities are endless!
Stuffing Mix Meatloaf
While meatloaf remains a beloved staple in many families’ Sunday dinner traditions, there’s nothing wrong with putting a modern spin on these classic recipes. This recipe may evoke memories of childhood Sunday dinners or introduce new flavors to your family’s table. Either way, its simplicity and tender flavor make it an easy addition to any meal. Plus, who doesn’t love having leftovers? And let’s not forget the star of the show: those mouthwatering sides that complement the meatloaf perfectly.
What are some of your go-to side dishes?
Chicken Enchiladas With Sour Cream White Sauce
Enchilada enthusiasts often assume that red sauce and corn tortillas are the only way to go, but this recipe will challenge those assumptions. It’s not traditional, but it’s no less delicious. With a few simple steps, you can create another tasty addition to your Sunday dinner repertoire. The key to successful baking is to keep an eye on the cheese – cover them initially to ensure even melting, then uncover towards the end for a crispy finish.
And don’t worry if you’re stumped on sides; this recipe comes with a bonus guide to help you choose the perfect accompaniment.
Cowboy Beef Stew
This hearty beef and vegetable stew, packed with tender chunks of beef, creamy beans, crispy hash browns, and a medley of sautéed vegetables, is sure to satisfy even the most insatiable appetites. It’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for any time of year, whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly winter evening or provide a satisfying main course for your family’s Sunday dinner.
Authentic Greek Baked Ziti (Pastitsio)
There’s something truly special about indulging in a warm, comforting plate of baked pasta smothered in melted cheese and rich, creamy sauce. To share the joy with loved ones, try following this Greek-inspired ziti recipe for a Sunday dinner to remember.
For those unfamiliar with baked ziti, imagine the best of lasagna and bolognese combined into one incredible dish, elevated by the velvety smoothness of bechamel sauce.
The Pastitsio’s meaty, aromatic flavors are sure to win over even the most discerning palates.
This classic Greek pasta dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or crusty breadsticks, but feel free to serve it alongside your favorite crudite for added freshness and crunch.
Creamy Instant Pot Spaghetti
When planning a stress-free Sunday meal that’s sure to please, consider the classic comfort food option: spaghetti. This crowd-pleaser is often a staple in many households and can be enjoyed by people of all ages. To give this beloved dish an extra boost, we’ve added a creamy twist with cream cheese. Best of all, this recipe uses an Instant Pot, making it incredibly easy to prepare and freeing up your time for more important things – like spending quality time with family.
With the Instant Pot’s ability to cook spaghetti quickly and efficiently, you’ll have the rest of your Sunday evening free to tackle other tasks or simply relax with loved ones.
Chicken Florentine
When it comes to finding Sunday dinner recipes that please the whole family, it can be a daunting task. However, this chicken florentine recipe is a game-changer! The combination of juicy chicken, rich creamy sauce, and earthy mushrooms and spinach is a match made in heaven. This dish is so flavorful, you won’t need to worry about serving a side – but if you do decide to, rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes would all pair well.
If you’re looking for more inspiration, I’ve also shared some other delicious chicken skillet recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
Easy & Juicy Beef Brisket
When you live in the South, there’s nothing quite like indulging in a tender and juicy brisket after hours of slow-cooking. The anticipation is part of the reward, and it’s especially true for this mouthwatering cut of beef. Whether you choose to cook it low and slow in a slow cooker, or opt for a more aggressive approach with an oven or pressure cooker, you’ll be left with a delightfully tender piece of beef that’s perfect for your Sunday meal ideas. And the best part?
There are endless ways to repurpose leftover brisket – try slicing it up into sandwiches or serving it alongside some fresh veggies for a satisfying and easy meal. For even more inspiration, check out our curated list of sides to serve with beef brisket.
Skillet Beef Stroganoff
When the weekend arrives, it’s not uncommon for time to seem to speed by, leaving you scrambling to come up with a satisfying Sunday dinner solution. Fortunately, this recipe is designed to be a crowd-pleaser, using common ingredients that are likely already stocked in your pantry. Moreover, the preparation process is straightforward and uncomplicated, making it an ideal option for busy home cooks.
Furthermore, you can easily scale up the recipe to prepare large quantities, which can then be refrigerated or reheated throughout the week, providing a convenient meal solution for several days.
Corned Beef Tater Tot Casserole
The versatility of casseroles lies in their ability to accommodate a variety of ingredients, allowing for endless flavor combinations and presentation styles. The addition of crispy tater tots elevates the dish to new heights, making it a crowd-pleaser that can appeal to even the most discerning palates. Whether someone is skeptical about corned beef or cabbage, the tantalizing aroma and crunch of the tater tots on top can easily win them over.
Moreover, casseroles offer an ingenious solution for transforming leftovers into creative Sunday meal ideas that are sure to impress.
Creamy Tuscan Garlic Salmon
While it’s tempting to dine out every week, reality often sets in. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. This simple yet impressive salmon recipe is perfect for Sunday dinner, allowing you to spend quality time with family and minimizing kitchen time. In just 30 minutes, you’ll be savoring a mouthwatering Tuscan-inspired dish smothered in a rich creamy garlic sauce. The best part?
You’ll have more time to cherish the moment with loved ones and less time spent cooking dinner. To complete your meal, I recommend pairing it with some of these tasty accompaniments: [insert list here]
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Transforming veggie-haters into enthusiasts is a challenge many parents face. But when presented with dishes as appealing as these stuffed peppers, it’s a feat easily accomplished! Packed with rice, ground beef or turkey, and melted cheese, this recipe has the potential to become a staple of your Sunday dinner repertoire. For an added layer of nutrition, consider substituting ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter take on this hearty dish.
The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its flavor but also in its visual appeal – use a mix of pepper colors to create a stunning presentation that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. And, as an added bonus, we’ll share some expert tips on reheating stuffed peppers for a satisfying lunch the next day.
Chicken Pot Pie
Mastering the art of homemade chicken pot pie opens up a world of possibilities for Sunday meal ideas. The thought of reverting to store-bought versions becomes a distant memory, thanks to the ease and flexibility of this recipe. With its user-friendly instructions and clever shortcuts – such as the option to use pre-made pie crust – you’ll be whipping up a delicious dinner in no time. Plus, we’ve got a selection of tasty sides for chicken pot pie that will complement your dish perfectly.
Chicken Fried Steak
When it comes to Southern comfort foods, few dishes rival chicken fried steak in terms of its irresistible flavor and satisfying texture. Paired with creamy mashed potatoes and a medley of fresh veggies, this hearty dish is sure to hit the spot. For an extra-crunchy finish, consider serving your gravy on the side – allowing each bite to be a masterclass in contrasting flavors and textures.
As we delve into the world of Southern cuisine, it’s worth noting that our list of okra recipes would make for a delightful accompaniment to Chicken Fried Steak. And, if you can swing it, letting the steaks marinate overnight will only serve to enhance their tender, fall-apart consistency. Once mastered at home, this recipe is sure to render restaurant visits unnecessary for your Sunday meal ideas – a true game-changer in the world of comfort food.
Mexican Style Shrimp And Rice
Great family bonding experiences often revolve around mouth-watering meals. When planning Sunday family dinner ideas, the focus shifts from cooking to quality time with loved ones. This recipe promises a scrumptious meal with minimal effort that’s sure to please everyone. And don’t worry if rice isn’t your thing – simply substitute it with elote street corn, a side salad, soup, or some green vegetables. Then, of course, no family gathering would be complete without a decadent dessert!
Old Fashioned Salisbury Steak
Salisbury steak is more than just a comforting meal – it’s a warm hug in a plate. The combination of rich brown gravy, pan-seared mushrooms (and of course, sautéed onions), and seasoned burger meat served over fluffy mashed potatoes or noodles is a match made in heaven. This classic dish brings back memories for many, including myself, who grew up with it as a staple Sunday night dinner. But don’t worry, making it from scratch isn’t as daunting as you might think.
With this recipe, you’ll be able to share the tradition of Salisbury steak with your own family and create new memories around the dinner table.
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Savoring a Sunday dinner that’s both delicious and budget-friendly is the ultimate comfort. This creamy Cajun shrimp pasta recipe checks all those boxes, offering a flavorful and satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
What sets this dish apart is its adaptability. With your own custom-made Cajun spice mix, you can tailor the flavor to suit your taste preferences and those of your family members.
To make things even easier, you can prepare the spice mix in advance or opt for peeled and deveined shrimp to streamline the cooking process.
To balance out the richness of this pasta dish, consider serving it with a refreshing arugula salad that adds a burst of freshness to each bite.
Fall Off The Bone Baby Back Ribs
The inaugural attempt at making these scrumptious ribs may lead you to question the merits of investing eight hours in marinating and four hours in the oven. But trust us, the outcome will be well worth the wait. This straightforward recipe promises foolproof results that will leave you wondering how you ever settled for mediocre ribs before. Remember, the best things in life are often those that require a little patience – like perfecting your Sunday family dinner plans.
And if you’re fortunate enough to have leftovers, we recommend reheating them using our suggested method…
The bottom line
As families gather around the table each Sunday, shared meals can foster lasting connections and create cherished memories. While a weekly family dinner may not be a part of your current routine, perhaps some mouthwatering recipe ideas have piqued your interest in planning a meal with your loved ones. With food serving as a universal language that transcends cultural boundaries, sharing a Sunday supper with dear family members can bring joy and togetherness.
If you’re searching for more inspiration, rest assured this collection of dinner ideas is designed to tantalize your taste buds and provide the perfect starting point for your own weekly culinary adventures.
