5 Easy Weeknight Dinners That Bring Comfort to Your Table

Life is busy, and sometimes it feels like you’re juggling a flaming baton while riding a unicycle. But here’s the thing—no matter how chaotic things get, there’s something grounding about gathering around the table for easy weeknight dinners. These meals aren’t just about feeding your family; they create comfort, connection, and lasting memories.

In Made with Love Vol 1, a cookbook I co-authored alongside other food-loving storytellers, we share recipes that make weeknight meals stress-free and satisfying. Today, I’m sharing five of my personal favourites that are quick, comforting, and guaranteed to bring everyone to the table (cape optional).

Ham & Scalloped Potatoes with Roasted Broccoli and 30-Minute Dinner Rolls

Why You’ll Love It: This meal is the ultimate multitasker—savoury, creamy, crispy, and fluffy all at once. It’s like the Avengers of dinners, assembling everything you need for a comforting meal.

Pro Tip:

Drizzle the ham with maple syrup for that sweet-meets-savory magic.

Use a mandoline to slice your potatoes faster (but watch those fingers, unless you’re looking for a side of ER visit).

Spaghetti Sauce That Does It All

Why You’ll Love It: This sauce isn’t just for spaghetti—it’s the Marie Kondo of meal prep, sparking joy as it transforms into chili, pizza sauce, or even soup. One batch, endless possibilities.

Pro Tip:

Freeze individual portions for those nights when cooking feels as achievable as running a marathon in stilettos.

Homemade Pizza Night

Why You’ll Love It: Pizza night is always a win, but making it at home takes it to the next level. This dough is foolproof and versatile—perfect for pizzas, garlic fingers, or even a cheeky stuffed crust.

Pro Tip:

Make garlic fingers with homemade donair sauce for an East Coast twist that’ll have you questioning every takeout night ever.

Top your pizza with broccoli. Trust me, it’s Friends’ Ross-approved, and it’s delicious.

Magically Moist Chicken with Cheese Tortellini

Why You’ll Love It: Whether you’re in the mood for crispy, flavorful roasted potatoes with marinated BBQ chicken or a comforting plate of breaded chicken paired with creamy cheese tortellini, this recipe lets you choose your adventure. It’s like dinner-time déjà vu with a delicious twist every time.

Pro Tip:

For the breaded chicken: Swap mayo for ranch dressing to shake things up (pun intended) or add parmesan for an extra layer of yum.

For the marinated BBQ chicken: Mix and freeze the marinade with the chicken for an easy, flavor-packed meal down the line.

Roast Beef Dinner with Mashed Potatoes and Yorkshire Pudding

Why You’ll Love It: This isn’t just dinner—it’s an event. Think tender roast beef, creamy mashed potatoes, and Yorkshire pudding so good it would make Joey Tribbiani swoon.

Pro Tip:

Puree the roasted veggies from the gravy base for a smooth, nutrient-packed sauce. It’s like sneaking kale into a smoothie—stealthy and satisfying.

Get Inspired by Made with Love Vol 1

These recipes are just the tip of the iceberg (or the edge of the pie crust). Inside Made with Love Vol 1, you’ll find a collection of recipes from incredible co-authors who share their love of food, family, and tradition.

As a co-author, I’m thrilled to contribute these dishes that have brought so much joy to my table. And guess what? Made with Love Vol 2 is already in the works! So I’m excited to share even more recipes. Here are a sample of the ones you can find in the current issue available now!

Check out a sample of the recipes within!

(you can enlarge to print as well!)

From my kitchen to yours—may your meals be simple, delicious, and filled with love.