Dinner stress is real – the clock hits 5 pm, the fridge looks unhelpful, and suddenly takeaway feels like the only option. That’s where this collection comes in. These recipes are budget-friendly, minimal on prep, and actually taste like something you want to eat (not just something you threw together). Think One-pan Beef Ramen Noodles that come together faster than delivery, Easy Roasted Garlic Butter Chicken that feels special but is secretly effortless, and Chicken and Broccoli Lasagne that’s creamy, cheesy and kid-approved. Add in classics like Beef Rissoles, Sweet and Sour Pork, and the ultimate comfort bowls of Authentic Fettuccine Alfredo – plus crowd-pleasing Southern “Fried” Baked Chicken Strips – and you’ve got your week covered.

You can find all of these recipes here, as well as in my new book Simple Dinners Every Day, which is filled with 100+ recipes designed to make our lives easier. Get your copy here. 

Cook books by Nicole Maguire
1
Close-up shot of beef ramen noodles and a pair of chopsticks on top.

One-pan Beef Ramen Noodles

4.88 from 58 votes
One-pan Beef Ramen Noodles is an easy, flavoursome stir-fry featuring juicy beef, ramen noodles and fresh veggies in a hoisin-based sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights!
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2
Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs with mashed potatoes and asparagus

Easy Roasted Garlic Butter Chicken

4.93 from 28 votes
A wholesome, comforting classic made easier and more economical. Easy Roasted Garlic Butter Chicken uses thigh cutlets, rather than a whole chicken, but the result is still the satisfyingly tender, juicy roasted chicken with crispy golden skin that we all love.
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Top view of a pan filled with creamy Chicken and Broccoli Lasagne, topped with golden melted cheese.

One-pan Chicken and Broccoli Lasagne

4.93 from 69 votes
Tender lasagne sheets, shredded chicken, broccoli and a creamy, garlicky cheese sauce, all cooked in the one pan. One-pan Chicken and Broccoli Lasagne is freezer-friendly, too!
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4
Juicy Beef Rissoles

Juicy Beef Rissoles

4.98 from 36 votes
This Delicious Beef Rissoles recipe is the perfect quick and easy family dinner. Make a big batch to freeze, ready for a rainy day!
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Sweet and sour pork dish featuring vibrant bell peppers and a glossy sauce, served in a bowl

Easy Sweet and Sour Pork

4.91 from 42 votes
This Easy Sweet and Sour Pork recipe is the perfect homemade version of your favourite takeout! Tender pork pieces are fried to golden perfection, then tossed in a tangy, sweet and slightly sour sauce along with capsicum (bell pepper) and juicy pineapple. Serve it over jasmine rice for a quick, easy, and budget-friendly meal that your family will love.
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A plate of authentic fettuccine Alfredo with a twisted forkful, topped with freshly cracked black pepper.

Authentic Fettuccine Alfredo

4.80 from 5 votes
This Authentic Fettuccine Alfredo recipe features a rich, creamy sauce made simply with butter and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. Classic Italian flavours in minutes, perfect for busy weeknights!
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Close-up of Southern 'Fried' Baked Chicken Strips, golden-brown and crispy, served with sweet potato wedges and a side of sour cream for dipping.

Southern “Fried” Baked Chicken Strips

4.67 from 12 votes
These Southern “Fried” Baked Chicken Strips deliver all the crispy, golden goodness of fried chicken without the oil or mess. Served with sweet potato fries, creamy homemade ranch, and a fresh cabbage salad, it’s a healthier, guilt-free indulgence that’s perfect for family dinners or weekend treats!
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