Best Main Dishes of 2025

Now we’ve arrived at the category I have the most recipes for this year—the Best Main Dishes of 2025. Main dishes have always been my specialty, the heart of what I love to cook and share. So if a recipe made it into this list, you can trust it’s truly the cream of the crop. These are the meals that fed my family all year long, the ones that earned repeat requests, and the ones I’m most excited to pass along to you.

These are the meals that truly anchor our weeknights and special occasions alike—the dishes that bring everyone to the table and leave no leftovers behind. Each one earned its spot because it’s dependable, delicious, and something my family asks for again and again. From comfort‑food classics to new favorites, this year’s main dishes showcase the kind of cooking I love most.

#1

First up is a recipe inspired by one of our favorite BBQ restaurants: BBQ Chicken Buddy Bowls. I created this version so we could enjoy that same smoky, saucy goodness at home, and it quickly became a staple in our meal rotation. It’s easy, comforting, and packed with flavor—everything you want in a weeknight dinner.

BBQ Chicken Buddy Bowls

These BBQ Chicken Buddy Bowls are a layered comfort food inspired by a favorite restaurant dish, made easy at home. They start with garlic mashed potatoes, crisp corn, and slow-cooked pulled BBQ chicken, then get topped with shredded cheese and fresh cilantro. It’s a hearty, customizable meal perfect for cozy nights or feeding a crowd.

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#2

Next is the Crispy Baked Caesar Chicken, a dish that looks fancy but couldn’t be simpler to make. It’s tender, flavorful, and topped with a crunchy coating that makes every bite irresistible. This one has become a go‑to not just for regular dinners but also when we have company over. It’s one of those recipes that feels special without requiring extra effort.

Baked Crispy Caesar Chicken

This Baked Crispy Caesar Chicken is a quick and flavorful dinner made with just five simple ingredients. Tender chicken breasts are topped with creamy Caesar dressing, provolone cheese, and a buttery crouton crumb topping that bakes up golden and crisp. Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s an easy weeknight meal that feels special enough to serve to guests.

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#3

My family also loves a good meatloaf, and the Meatloaf Sheet Pan Meal has become a fast favorite. I love that the entire dinner—meatloaves and sides—cooks together on one sheet pan. Because the meatloaves are made individually, they bake much faster than a traditional loaf, making this a total mom win on busy nights.

Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaf Meal

This Sheet Pan Mini Meatloaf Meal is a complete and comforting meal made entirely on one pan. Juicy, flavorful mini meatloaves are paired with creamy mashed potatoes and perfectly roasted green beans for an easy dinner with minimal cleanup. It’s a family-friendly dish that’s simple to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights!

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mini meatloaf with mashed potatoes and green beans all made on a sheet pan

#4

And last but definitely not least is my Cheesy Noodle Bake. This recipe has been with me my entire married life, passed down from a church cookbook my mom gave me when I got married. It’s simple, comforting, and made with pantry‑friendly ingredients, yet it delivers big on flavor. I’m so glad I finally shared it on the blog this year—it’s one of those timeless dishes that never stops being delicious.

Cheesy Noodle Bake

This Cheesy Noodle Bake is a simple yet comforting dish that combines tender egg noodles, tomato-infused ground beef, and a creamy blend of sour cream, cottage cheese, and seasonings. Topped with melty shredded cheese, it bakes to golden perfection, making it a quick and satisfying meal for busy nights. With its lasagna-like flavors but effortless preparation, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!

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