I’ve Cooked Over 1,000 Ina Garten Recipes, Here Are 18 Of My Favorites For An Easy Dinner
If you know, you know: Ina Garten is the queen of effortlessly elegant dinners that make you feel like you’ve got it all together—even when you don’t. After cooking my way through more than 1,000 of her recipes (yes, really), these are the 18 go-to Ina dishes I come back to again and again when I need something comforting, foolproof, and easy enough for a weeknight. These aren’t just “easy”—they’re Ina-easy. Which means smart shortcuts, big flavor, and a whole lot of olive oil.
1. Lemon Chicken Breasts
Bright, garlicky, and roasted to juicy perfection—this is a forever weeknight staple in my house. The lemony zest mingles with the savory garlic, creating an aromatic embrace that transforms simple chicken into a flavor-packed delight. With minimal effort, this dish brings a splash of sunshine to any meal. Pair it with steamed vegetables or a simple green salad to balance the richness. Perfect for those evenings when time is short but the craving for something delicious is non-negotiable. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end elevates it to another level. This dish truly shines as a comforting classic.
2. Weeknight Bolognese
A fast version of a slow classic. Ground meat, red wine, and a splash of cream take it over the top. This dish embodies the essence of comfort in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings. The rich, meaty sauce clings to the pasta, offering a hearty embrace that’s both satisfying and indulgent. With each bite, the flavors meld together, creating a symphony of taste that’s hard to forget. Ideal for family dinners, it’s a dish that brings everyone to the table. A hint of nutmeg adds a surprising depth, making it a true weeknight winner.
3. Mustard-Roasted Chicken
One pan, crispy skin, and a Dijon cream sauce that’s chef’s kiss. No marinade needed. The mustard glaze adds a tangy kick, while the crispy skin provides the ultimate textural contrast. As it bakes, the aroma fills the kitchen, promising a meal that’s both impressive and effortless. Serve it with your favorite sides, and watch as it becomes a family favorite. This dish is about simplicity and flavor—a true testament to Ina’s genius. Perfect for both weeknights and casual gatherings, it’s a recipe that never fails to delight with its elegance and ease.
4. Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Pantry-friendly and packed with flavor—plus, it makes great leftovers for lunch. The sun-dried tomatoes bring a burst of umami, while the pasta absorbs their rich essence. A sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh basil elevates this dish to new heights. It’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. Perfect for busy evenings when you want something delicious without the fuss. The leftovers make for a delightful lunch, as the flavors only deepen overnight. This dish proves that great taste doesn’t need to be complicated.
5. Perfect Roast Chicken
The ultimate cozy meal. Serve it with pan-roasted carrots and a hunk of bread to soak up the drippings. This dish embodies home-cooked comfort, with its golden, crispy skin and juicy interior. Every bite is a reminder of why roast chicken is a classic. The simplicity of ingredients allows the natural flavors to shine, making it a delightful centerpiece for any dinner. It’s a recipe that never goes out of style, bringing warmth and satisfaction to the table. Paired with a glass of crisp white wine, it transforms any evening into a special occasion.
6. Parmesan Chicken
Crispy, cheesy, and topped with a lemony salad—it feels like a dinner party but comes together fast. The Parmesan crust adds a savory crunch, contrasted by the refreshing salad on top. This dish is a blend of textures and flavors, offering a gourmet experience without the fuss. Ideal for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special. The tangy lemon dressing ties everything together, creating a harmonious balance. Easy to make, yet elegant to present, it’s a dish that showcases the beauty of simplicity. Every bite is a celebration.
7. Baked Shrimp Scampi
Butter, garlic, and breadcrumbs meet juicy shrimp in a dish that tastes way fancier than the effort involved. The shrimp absorbs the rich, garlicky butter, while the breadcrumbs add a delightful crunch. It’s a luxurious dish that comes together quickly, perfect for impressing guests or indulging yourself. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. This dish exemplifies the magic of combining simple ingredients to create something extraordinary. A true testament to Ina’s culinary expertise.
8. Chicken Thighs with Creamy Mustard Sauce
A one-pan dinner with crispy chicken and a dreamy, tangy sauce. Pairs well with roasted potatoes or rice. The mustard sauce adds a punchy depth, complementing the chicken’s crispy skin. It’s a dish that delivers both flavor and ease, making it a weeknight favorite. As the chicken cooks, the aroma fills the kitchen, promising a meal that satisfies both the heart and the stomach. With minimal cleanup, it’s a practical yet indulgent choice. This dish is all about comfort and simplicity, bringing a touch of elegance to any table.
9. Turkey Meatloaf
Moist, tender, and glazed with ketchup and Worcestershire—comfort food at its cleanest. This turkey meatloaf is a healthier twist on the classic, offering all the nostalgic flavors without the guilt. The glaze adds a tangy sweetness that complements the savory loaf. It’s a dish that warms the soul, perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, it’s a staple in my kitchen. Paired with mashed potatoes or a simple salad, it creates a meal that’s both satisfying and wholesome. A true comfort classic, reimagined.
10. Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons
A grown-up twist on childhood nostalgia. The soup is silky and rich, the croutons are straight-up genius. This dish brings comfort and creativity together, offering a delightful experience in every spoonful. The creamy tomato soup is perfectly seasoned, while the croutons add a fun texture and cheesy flavor. It’s a meal that evokes fond memories while creating new ones. Ideal for a cozy lunch or light dinner, this dish transforms a simple classic into something extraordinary. The combination of flavors and textures is both exciting and comforting, making it a favorite for all ages.
11. Summer Garden Pasta
Ina’s answer to “What do I do with all these tomatoes?” Fresh, raw sauce and hot pasta do all the work. This dish captures the essence of summer, with its bright colors and fresh flavors. The tomatoes burst with juiciness, while the basil adds a fragrant touch. It’s a dish that celebrates the bounty of the season, perfect for warm evenings when you want something light yet satisfying. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, it’s a go-to for showcasing the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients. A true celebration of summer on a plate.
12. Lemon Orzo with Roasted Vegetables
Zippy, herby, and totally meal-prep friendly. Makes a great side or light main. The lemony orzo offers a refreshing tartness, while the roasted vegetables add depth and sweetness. This dish is a symphony of flavors and textures, perfect for those who appreciate the harmony of fresh ingredients. Ideal for meal prep, it keeps well and tastes even better the next day. As a side or a light main, it brings a touch of sunshine to any meal. With its vibrant colors and flavors, it’s a dish that delights both the eyes and the palate.
13. Skillet-Roasted Lemon Chicken
A cast-iron stunner with crispy potatoes and juicy chicken. Weeknight effort, weekend vibes. This dish combines the rustic charm of skillet cooking with the brightness of lemon, creating a meal that’s both hearty and refreshing. The chicken is succulent, while the potatoes offer a crispy contrast. Ideal for those who love the simplicity of one-pan meals that don’t compromise on flavor. With its inviting aroma and satisfying taste, it’s a dish that transforms any evening into a special occasion. Perfect for entertaining or a cozy night in, it’s a classic that never fails to impress.
14. 1770 House Meatloaf
A fan-favorite for a reason—beef and pork, garlic, and onion with buttery onion gravy. It’s next level. This meatloaf is a testament to the power of classic flavors done right. The combination of meats creates a rich, juicy loaf, while the onion gravy adds an irresistible savory depth. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for those who appreciate traditional dishes with a touch of elegance. Ideal for family dinners or a comforting weekend meal, it’s a recipe that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. A true classic, elevated to new heights.
15. Smashed Hamburgers with Caramelized Onions
So simple, so juicy, so satisfying. The onions make it feel elevated, but the effort is minimal. These burgers are a celebration of simplicity, with their juicy patties and sweet, caramelized onions. Perfect for gatherings or a quick dinner, they bring joy to any occasion. The melted cheese adds a creamy richness, making each bite a delight. It’s a dish that proves that great taste doesn’t need to be complicated. Whether grilled or cooked on the stovetop, these burgers are a sure hit, offering a delicious experience with minimal effort.
16. Rigatoni with Sausage & Fennel
Bold, hearty, and ideal for cold nights. Plus, it all happens in one big skillet. This dish is a celebration of robust flavors, with the fennel adding a unique twist to the classic sausage pasta. It’s a comforting meal that warms both the body and the soul, perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something substantial. The rigatoni holds the sauce beautifully, ensuring a flavorful bite every time. It’s a dish that brings people together, offering a sense of warmth and satisfaction. A true comfort food classic, reimagined with elegance.
17. Seared Salmon with Spicy Red Pepper Aioli
Fast, fresh, and a total showstopper. The aioli doubles as a dip for roasted veggies, too. This dish is the epitome of elegance, with its perfectly cooked salmon and vibrant aioli. The spicy kick of the red pepper adds excitement to each bite, while the salmon’s natural richness shines through. Ideal for impressing guests or treating yourself to a gourmet meal, it’s a dish that combines simplicity with sophistication. The aioli’s versatility adds an extra layer of enjoyment, making it a favorite for those who appreciate bold flavors with a refined touch.
18. Chicken Marbella (Modern Version)
Sweet, tangy, and savory all at once—this updated classic is perfect for make-ahead entertaining or Sunday dinner. The prunes and olives create a unique flavor profile, offering a delightful contrast that intrigues the palate. It’s a dish that brings excitement to the table, with its vibrant colors and bold tastes. Ideal for those who enjoy exploring new culinary experiences, it’s both exotic and comforting. With its make-ahead convenience, it’s perfect for entertaining, allowing you to enjoy the company of your guests. A classic brought to modern life, offering a feast for the senses.