11 of Ina’s Must-Try Dinner Recipes Everyone Will Love

Looking to impress at dinner time? Ina’s 11 best dinner recipes are sure to please everyone at your table. From hearty mains to delightful sides, each meal is crafted to be both satisfying and delicious. So grab your apron and get ready to whip up some favorites!

Herb-Roasted Chicken with Vegetables

Herb-roasted chicken is a classic dish that brings comfort and joy to any dinner table. The image showcases a beautifully roasted chicken, golden and crispy on the outside, surrounded by vibrant vegetables. You can see the juicy chicken resting on a bed of colorful carrots, tomatoes, and lemons, all infused with fresh herbs. This dish not only looks stunning but also fills your home with a delightful aroma.

Making herb-roasted chicken is simple and rewarding. It’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. The combination of tender chicken and roasted vegetables makes for a hearty meal that everyone will love.

Here’s how you can recreate this delicious dish:

Ingredients

1 whole chicken (4–5 pounds)
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
4 carrots, chopped
1 pint cherry tomatoes
2 lemons, halved
1 small onion, quartered

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and place it in a large roasting pan.

In a small bowl, mix olive oil, rosemary, thyme, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to coat it evenly.

Arrange the carrots, cherry tomatoes, onion, and lemon halves around the chicken. Squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the vegetables for extra flavor.

Roast uncovered for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crisp.

Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with the roasted vegetables and pan juices spooned over the top.

Classic Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

Classic meatloaf with mashed potatoes is a dish that brings comfort and nostalgia to the dinner table. The image shows a generous slice of meatloaf, perfectly cooked and topped with a rich gravy, sitting beside a fluffy mound of mashed potatoes. The warm, inviting colors of the dish make it hard to resist. This meal is a favorite for many, often reminding us of family gatherings and cozy evenings.

Making meatloaf is straightforward and allows for personal touches. You can mix in your favorite herbs or spices to make it your own. Pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes and savory gravy creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cups mashed potatoes
• 1 cup beef gravy

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, chopped onion, eggs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf. Bake for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
4. While the meatloaf is baking, prepare your mashed potatoes. Boil peeled potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Once the meatloaf is done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it with a generous portion of mashed potatoes and drizzle beef gravy over the top.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a dish that brings comfort and flavor to any dinner table. The image shows a beautiful plate of spaghetti topped with juicy shrimp, fresh lemon slices, and a sprinkle of parsley. The vibrant colors make it look as delicious as it tastes!

This recipe is quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of garlic and butter creates a rich sauce that coats the pasta beautifully, while the shrimp adds a delightful protein boost.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until shrimp turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Combine: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Pour in lemon juice and zest, tossing everything together until well combined.
4. Serve: Plate the pasta and shrimp, garnishing with fresh parsley. Serve with extra lemon slices on the side for a fresh kick!

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is a classic dish that warms the heart. The vibrant red color of the soup, combined with fresh basil leaves on top, makes it visually appealing. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or as a starter for any meal. The rich flavors of tomatoes and basil blend beautifully, creating a comforting bowl of goodness.

This soup is not just easy to make; it’s also a crowd-pleaser. Whether served with a grilled cheese sandwich or on its own, it’s sure to bring smiles to the table. The creamy texture adds a luxurious touch that everyone loves.

Let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make this delightful dish.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, sugar, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer to a blender in batches.
5. Stir in heavy cream and heat through. Adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon

Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon is a dish that brings together fresh flavors and healthy ingredients. The image shows a beautifully grilled salmon fillet, topped with lemon slices and garnished with herbs. It’s served alongside vibrant green asparagus, making it not just delicious but also visually appealing.

This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of lemon and herbs enhances the natural taste of the salmon, making it a favorite among many. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, so you can enjoy a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh lemon slices for garnish
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme) for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to soak up the flavors.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. If using a grill pan, heat it over medium heat.
4. Grill the Salmon: Place the marinated salmon on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve: Remove the salmon from the grill and garnish with fresh lemon slices and herbs. Serve with asparagus or your favorite side dish.

Beef Stroganoff with Egg Noodles

Beef Stroganoff is a classic dish that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. This version features tender beef in a creamy sauce, served over perfectly cooked egg noodles. The dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, with the rich sauce glistening over the noodles. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top adds a pop of color and freshness.

Making Beef Stroganoff is straightforward and rewarding. Start by sautéing the beef until it’s browned, then add onions and mushrooms for depth of flavor. The creamy sauce comes together with sour cream and beef broth, creating a luscious coating for the noodles. This dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, and it’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef sirloin, cut into strips
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 ounces egg noodles
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Noodles: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add egg noodles and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips and cook until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add Vegetables: In the same skillet, add onions and mushrooms. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Create the Sauce: Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir well. Gradually add beef broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer.
5. Finish the Dish: Return the beef to the skillet. Stir in sour cream and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
6. Serve: Plate the egg noodles and top with the beef stroganoff. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa

Stuffed bell peppers are a colorful and tasty dish that everyone can enjoy. In this recipe, we fill vibrant bell peppers with a delicious quinoa mixture. The peppers not only look great on the plate but also add a sweet crunch to each bite.

This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. The combination of quinoa, veggies, and spices makes it a healthy option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on what you have in your pantry!

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• Cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them upright in a baking dish.
3. In a medium pot, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy.
4. In a large bowl, mix the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in.
6. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top of the stuffed peppers.
7. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the peppers are tender.
8. Garnish with cilantro before serving.

Vegetable Lasagna with Spinach

Vegetable lasagna with spinach is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to the dinner table. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty meal packed with veggies. The layers of pasta, rich tomato sauce, and creamy cheese blend beautifully with the fresh spinach, creating a satisfying experience for the taste buds.

This lasagna is not just tasty; it’s also a great way to sneak in some greens. The vibrant colors of the spinach and the melted cheese make it visually appealing, too. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress.

Now, let’s get to the good part—making this delicious vegetable lasagna!

Ingredients

• 9 lasagna noodles
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, mix ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, spinach, zucchini, bell pepper, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Layer three lasagna noodles over the sauce.
5. Spread half of the cheese and vegetable mixture over the noodles, followed by a layer of marinara sauce. Repeat the layers, ending with noodles and sauce on top.
6. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top layer.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Pasta Primavera with Fresh Vegetables

Pasta Primavera is a delightful dish that brings together vibrant colors and fresh flavors. The image showcases a beautiful bowl of spaghetti, adorned with a mix of cherry tomatoes, olives, and fresh basil. The colorful vegetables not only make the dish visually appealing but also add a burst of flavor that everyone loves.

This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. The combination of fresh ingredients makes it a healthy choice that doesn’t compromise on taste. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights.

Let’s get started with the ingredients and steps to create this delicious Pasta Primavera!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
• 1 cup zucchini, sliced
• 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and zucchini. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
3. Combine: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the vegetables. Toss everything together, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top.
4. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your delicious Pasta Primavera!

Chicken Piccata with Capers

Chicken Piccata is a classic dish that brings a burst of flavor to any dinner table. The image shows a beautifully plated chicken breast, topped with a light, creamy sauce, fresh lemon slices, and a sprinkle of capers. The vibrant colors make it not just a meal, but a feast for the eyes.

This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. The combination of lemon and capers adds a zesty touch that pairs wonderfully with the tender chicken. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for special occasions.

Let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make this delightful Chicken Piccata.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece in flour, shaking off the excess.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add lemon juice and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the capers.
4. Finish the Dish: Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Add the remaining butter and swirl it into the sauce.
5. Serve: Plate the chicken and spoon the sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices before serving.

Chocolate Lava Cake with Vanilla Ice Cream

Chocolate Lava Cake is a dessert that brings joy to any dinner table. The image shows a rich, molten chocolate cake topped with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The warm chocolate oozes out when you cut into it, creating a delightful contrast with the cold ice cream.

This dessert is perfect for special occasions or just a cozy night in. It’s easy to make and always impresses guests. The combination of rich chocolate and smooth ice cream is a classic that everyone loves.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 large eggs
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Vanilla ice cream, for serving
• Chocolate sauce, for drizzling

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease four ramekins with butter and dust with flour.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and chocolate chips together. Stir until smooth.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, and sugar until thick and pale. Add the melted chocolate mixture, flour, vanilla, and salt. Mix until just combined.
4. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins. Place them on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 12-14 minutes until the edges are firm but the center is soft. Let them cool for 1 minute.
6. Carefully invert each ramekin onto a plate. Serve immediately with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce.