Dinner. It is the meal that takes the most effort, is positioned right at the very peak of crazy hour, and (despite the considerable work it takes) often receives little to no praise from its recipients.

We have entered the phase of midweek sporting commitments and there is definitely something to be said for setting yourself up for easy options on these nights. While I do enjoy the art of creating new cuisine based meals from time to time, sometimes you just need to get something on the table… and fast!

It is easy to get into ruts. ‘But we had that last week!’ or ‘Really? This again?‘ Often it can seem far easier to just repeat what worked rather than seek out a new recipe. If you switch it around enough, though, I find that you can keep it fresh AND easy at the same time. Everyone wins!

Here are some quick and easy options we use for midweek dinners:

1. Enchilada Lasagna

It’s like lasagna, but easier and with tortilla wraps instead! I make Emeril’s Easy Enchilada Sauce recipe, mix in some sour cream, add in some pre-cooked shredded chicken and layer the wraps (dip first in hot chicken stock) in a casserole dish with the sauce and cheese. Cook in a preheated moderate oven for at least half an hour and let sit for 15 minutes before you dish it up. Serve with rice, salsa and any other Mexican side dish favourites. (For more cooking instructions, check out this recipe from Bread & Wine which mine is based upon).

2. Pumpkin Soup

I’m not sure why but somehow this meal has become one of the kids’ favourites. It can be put together in half an hour and, when served with some crusty bread, is the perfect winter warmer for the whole family. I like serving dessert afterwards (something about soup not quite seeming enough for a main meal) and this hot chocolate fudge sauce can be whipped up in five minutes and makes the most delicious sundaes.

3. Fish Burgers

Another sinfully easy dish, all you have to do is bake the battered or crumbed fish for half an hour, chop up some burger toppings and set out some rolls and the contents of the sauce cabinet for easy ‘do it yourself’ fun. Topping ideas include sliced tomato, cucumber, dill pickles, spanish onion, sliced cheese, pineapple, lettuce, beetroot, jalapenos, grated carrot and more! You can find the recipe related to the image above here.

4. Baked Eggs

This is a great go-to when you don’t have long but want a nice hearty meal. I start off by gently warming some crushed garlic in olive oil in an oven-proof skillet, adding the contents of two tins of tomato, then seasoning with salt, oregano and a dash of hot paprika. When the mixture has bubbled down to a sauce like consistency, crack in as many eggs as you like and place in a pre-heated moderate oven until the whites turn opaque and hold their shape when the pan is jiggled (or just cover and leave on the stove until the same point if you prefer). You can switch up the flavours in this one by adding in chorizo, meatballs, bacon or trying different spices (like cumin) or herbs (like basil). Definitely serve with lots of crusty bread for soaking up the juices.

5. Moroccan Chicken Curry

I have been making this curry for years now and it is always a hit with the kids (and adults). It takes a little pre-thought because it is best when slow-cooked, but once you toss all the ingredients in it really cooks itself. All you need is a few onions, garlic, ginger, chicken thighs, canned tomatoes, canned chickpeas and your pantry selection of herbs and spices. Serve with couscous or rice and a sprinkling of coriander.

Want more? Here are Five Deliciously Simple Slow Cooker Meals for the Whole Family.

Now, over to you! What are your midweek easy meal options? Share away!