10 Easy Weeknight Recipe Ideas

Skip the takeout—here’s what to make instead

Looking for weeknight dinner ideas that feel a little more exciting than your usual rotation? We’ve rounded up 10 easy recipes inspired by Lettuce restaurants that bring the flavors of your favorite spots to your own kitchen.

1. Chicken Kefta Burger from Aba

Bring a little Mediterranean flavor to your weeknight routine with the Chicken Kefta Burger from Aba. Juicy, herby chicken patties are layered with tzatziki, feta, crisp veggies, all served on a soft bun. It’s a quick, healthy dinner and a fun swap for your typical hamburger. Get the recipe for the Chicken Kefta Burger from Aba.

View the menu at the Aba location nearest you
Make a reservation at the Aba location nearest you

2. Beef and Broccoli from Big Bowl

Trying to cook at home but your family is in the mood for takeout? This dinner is the perfect compromise. The Beef and Broccoli from Big Bowl is a tasty way to get your family to eat some some veggies and protein. Get the recipe for the Beef and Broccoli from Big Bowl.

Make a reservation at the Big Bowl location nearest you
Order carryout and delivery from the Big Bowl location nearest you

3. Pressed Bikini Sandwich from Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!

Level up your classic grilled cheese with a Spanish twist! Inspired by the flavors of Barcelona, this melty, savory-sweet Pressed Bikini Sandwich is a quick yet flavorful weeknight win. Get the recipe for the Pressed Bikini Sandwich from Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!

Make a reservation at Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!
Order carryout or delivery from Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!

4. Turkey Chili from L. Woods Tap & Pine Lodge

Make this Turkey Chili from L. Woods Tap & Pine Lodge and you’ll have a cozy dinner for one of the first cooler nights of fall. Bonus: it leaves you with leftovers for the week ahead. Meal prep = done! Get the recipe for the Turkey Chili from L. Woods Tap & Pine Lodge.

View the menu at L. Woods Tap & Pine Lodge
Make a reservation at L. Woods Tap & Pine Lodge

5. Spaghetti Limone from Pizzeria Portofino

Switch up your usual spaghetti night with the Spaghetti Limone from Pizzeria Portofino. Bright, simple, and bursting with fresh lemon flavor, it’s a refreshing choice when you’re craving something summery—no matter the season. Get the recipe for the Spaghetti Limone from Pizzeria Portofino.

Make a reservation at Pizzeria Portofino
Order carryout or delivery from Pizzeria Portofino

6. Mama DePandi’s Bucatini from RPM Italian

Mama DePandi’s Bucatini is a fan favorite at RPM Italian. Inspired by Giuliana Rancic’s family recipe, this dish is just as easy to prepare as it is delicious. Pair it with the Prime Beef Meatballs for the perfect weeknight dinner as the weather starts to cool off. Get the recipe for Mama DePandi’s Bucatini from RPM Italian.

Make a reservation at the RPM Italian location nearest you
Order carryout or delivery from the RPM Italian location nearest you

7. Prime Beef Meatballs from RPM Italian

What goes better with red sauce than meatballs? These Prime Beef Meatballs from RPM Italian pair perfectly with the Mama DePandi’s Bucatini, or as a standalone dish that the whole family will love. Get the recipe for the Prime Beef Meatballs from RPM Italian.

Make a reservation at the RPM Italian location nearest you
Order carryout or delivery from the RPM Italian location nearest you

8. Chicken Parmesan from Saranello’s

One bite of Saranello’s Chicken Parmesan and you’ll be transported to a cozy Italian restaurant. It’s simple, delicious, and a guaranteed family favorite! Get the recipe for the Chicken Parmesan from Saranello’s.

Make a reservation at Saranello’s
Order carryout and delivery from Saranello’s

9. Gluten-Free Mac n’ Cheese from Summer House

Braelyn’s Mac n’ Cheese is a staple on the kid’s menu at Summer House. Once you try this easy recipe at home, the kids will be asking for it at least once a week. Get the recipe for the Gluten-Free Mac n’ Cheese from Summer House.

Make a reservation at the Summer House location nearest you
Order carryout or delivery from the Summer House location nearest you

10. Margherita Pizza from The Oakville Grill & Cellar

Homemade pizza night is always a win—dinner gets made, and everyone gets to join the fun. Start with this classic Margherita Pizza as your base, then let the whole family add their favorite toppings. This recipe from The Oakville Grill & Cellar is sure to be a hit! Get the recipe for the Margherita Pizza from The Oakville Grill & Cellar.