20 Lazy Sunday Dinner Ideas for Ultimate Relaxation

Want to enjoy your Sunday without spending hours in the kitchen? This compilation of lazy Sunday dinner ideas is crafted to ensure your day ends with a deliciously simple and stress-free meal.

Dive into a selection of easy dishes that will complement your laid-back day, perfect for those who’d rather relax than cook.

Key Takeaways

• One-pot meals like Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup, Skillet Chicken Pot Pie, and Vegetarian Chili Mac are easy and result in less cleanup, making your Sunday dinner relaxed and enjoyable.
• Slow cookers are a Sunday lifesaver, preparing dishes like BBQ Pulled Pork, Beef Stroganoff, and Pot Roast without much effort - just set it, forget it, and savor it later.
• Sheet pan dinners are fast and require minimal effort, offering variety with dishes like Honey Mustard Salmon, Sheet Pan Fajitas, and Balsamic Chicken and Veggies, all cooked together for a flavorful meal.
• Lazy dinners positively affect the Sunday Scaries as you don't need to stress yourself out with a full blown meal.

Effortless One-Pot Meals

We begin with the ultimate in simplicity - one-pot meals. These easy recipes require minimal effort for both preparation and cleanup, making them the perfect choice for making dinner a relaxed Sunday experience. Trust me, after a long week, there’s nothing better than a hearty meal that doesn’t result in a mountain of dishes to wash.

This extends beyond just your basic spaghetti or stir-fry. The world of one-pot meals is diverse, encompassing everything from international dishes like Gyudon Japanese Beef Bowl and Singapore Noodle Curry Shrimp, to homestyle favorites like Ranch-Baked Chicken Thighs and One Pan Orecchiette Pasta.

What’s more, even frozen vegetables can be utilized in your one-pot meals, eliminating the need for extensive chopping and prep work.

Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup

Our first one-pot marvel is the Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup. Combining the richness of canned tomatoes with the softness of cheese tortellini and the aromatic freshness of basil, this soup is a delight for the senses. What’s more, it’s ready in just about 30 minutes!

Not to mention, the addition of:

• garlic
• onion
• oregano
• red pepper flakes
• salt
• pepper
• optional Italian seasoning

Adds an incredible depth of flavor to your favorite brand.

The creamy texture achieved with the addition of heavy cream or half-and-half sets this soup apart, and a garnish of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and extra basil leaves before serving makes this a truly indulgent experience.

Skillet Chicken Pot Pie

Next up, we have the Skillet Chicken Pot Pie, a homely comfort dish that combines:

• Cooked chicken
• Mixed vegetables
• Chicken broth
• A pie crust or biscuit topping

The filling is thickened with a roux made from butter and flour, creating a creamy consistency that will have you coming back for seconds.

The crowning glory, of course, is the pie crust or biscuit dough placed atop the filling in the skillet and baked until golden brown. As an added bonus, some versions even include a splash of white wine for added flavor complexity.

Vegetarian Chili Mac

Last in our one-pot lineup is the Vegetarian Chili Mac, a comforting dish featuring a delicious blend of mac & cheese mixed with hearty vegetarian chili. This dish is packed with flavor, thanks to ingredients like:

• extra-virgin olive oil
• white onion
• celery
• jalapeños
• garlic
• chilis in adobo
• ground cumin
• dried oregano
• fresh cilantro
• water
• canned tomatoes
• beans
• frozen veggies
• dry pasta
• a mixture of white cheddar and mozzarella cheeses

Plus, you can customize it by substituting different types of beans, pasta shapes, or cheeses. For added texture, garnish with corn chips like Fritos.

A host of spices such as chili powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper are used to create a robust and warm flavor profile.

Slow Cooker Sunday Favorites

Transitioning from one-pot meals, we now venture into another domain of easy cooking - the wondrous world of slow cookers. Slow cooker recipes are perfect for lazy Sundays, offering the comfort of a home-cooked meal with minimal effort.

Favorites like Crockpot BBQ Pulled Pork, Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff, and Lazy Sunday Pot Roast are beloved for their simplicity and delicious flavors.

The most appealing aspect? The slow cooker does most of the work without requiring constant attention. So you can kick back, relax, and enjoy your Sunday while your dinner practically cooks itself.

Crockpot BBQ Pulled Pork

First up in our slow cooker favorites is the Crockpot BBQ Pulled Pork. Here’s how to make it:

1. Place a pork shoulder in the slow cooker.
2. Add barbecue sauce, onions, and spices.
3. Cook on low for several hours until the pork is tender.
4. Shred the pork and mix it back into the slow cooker with the barbecue sauce.
5. Let it cook for another hour or so to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve the pulled pork on buns or over rice for a delicious meal.

The result is a mouth-watering delight that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

All you need is some soft buns to serve the pulled pork on, and boom! You have a hearty meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff

Next, we have the Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff, a classic comfort food dish that’s sure to warm you up on a chilly Sunday evening. The recipe calls for cooking beef strips with mushrooms, onions, and garlic in a creamy sauce, typically served over egg noodles or rice to complete the meal.

And for an added touch of luxury, a splash of red wine can be added to the beef and mushroom mixture while it cooks in the slow cooker. It’s a hearty, comforting meal with minimal effort - perfect for a lazy Sunday!

Lazy Sunday Pot Roast

Rounding off our slow cooker favorites is the Lazy Sunday Pot Roast, a dish that lives up to its name. This simple yet scrumptious recipe features a beef chuck-eye roast, seasoned with herbs like rosemary or thyme, and includes staple vegetables such as potatoes and carrots. And don’t be fooled by its simplicity - with the right seasoning and a little patience, this pot roast transforms into a flavorful masterpiece that’s sure to impress.

For a unique twist, consider adding Granny Smith apples or other tart apples towards the end of cooking. The apples enhance the overall flavor profile of the pot roast, resulting in a dish that’s rich, hearty, and absolutely delectable.

Quick Sheet Pan Dinners

Shifting from slow cooking, we now explore the other extreme - quick sheet pan dinners. These meals are celebrated for their straightforward approach and the limited cleanup they necessitate.

A combination of proteins, such as chicken or fish, and a medley of vegetables can be roasted together on a single sheet pan for a complete meal. What’s more, the oven roasting at high heat allows for a delicious roast, giving the ingredients rich flavor and caramelization.

Utilizing a preheated sheet pan for better caramelization and a variety of seasonings and sauces to cater to individual preferences, sheet pan meals offer versatility and adaptability for diverse cuisines and dietary needs.

Honey Mustard Salmon with Roasted Vegetables

Starting our sheet pan dinner journey, we have the Honey Mustard Salmon with Roasted Vegetables. This dish features a delightful honey mustard glaze that perfectly complements the salmon.

The asparagus, cherry tomatoes, and red onions roasted alongside the salmon offer a variety of flavors and textures that complement the fish. And it’s not just the taste that’s impressive - this meal is also packed with health benefits, providing omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon and an assortment of vitamins from the array of vegetables.

Sheet Pan Fajitas

Next up, we have Sheet Pan Fajitas, a fuss-free way to prepare a Tex-Mex favorite. This dish requires less preparation time and simplifies the cooking process, making it perfect for a lazy Sunday dinner.

Warm tortillas accompany the sheet pan fajitas, allowing individuals to construct their fajitas with add-ons like sour cream, cheese, and avocado. It’s like having a Mexican fiesta at home, without all the hassle.

Balsamic Chicken and Veggies

Last but not least, we can’t forget about our Balsamic Chicken and Veggies. This one-pan meal features:

• Chicken breasts marinated in balsamic vinegar and olive oil
• Roasted cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and red onions
• A glaze created by the balsamic vinegar, bringing out the natural sweetness of the vegetables during roasting
• Enhancement of flavor with Parmesan cheese and herbs like marjoram or oregano

All of these ingredients contribute to the delectable taste of this dish.

Not only is it flavorful and spicy, but it’s also an easy and healthy meal that can be prepared in less than 30 minutes.

Cozy Casseroles for Lazy Evenings

As evening sets in, it’s time to cozy up with some heartwarming casseroles. Casseroles are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for those lazy evenings when you want something warm and satisfying without too much fuss.

From the Tuna Noodle Casserole to the Croque Monsieur Breakfast Casserole and the Lazy Lasagna Bake, there’s a lazy dish casserole to suit every palate.

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Our first casserole pick is the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole. This dish combines cooked chicken, broccoli florets, and cooked rice into a wholesome and hearty meal. A creamy soup base such as condensed cream of chicken, sour cream, and shredded cheese are mixed in to create the perfect consistency.

For enhanced flavor and texture, the casserole is baked with a topping of buttery breadcrumbs or crushed crackers. It’s a perfect combination of flavors that the whole family will love.

Lazy Lasagna Bake

Next up, we have the Lazy Lasagna Bake. True to its name, this lasagna is all about simplicity. Made using:

• no-boil lasagna noodles
• marinara sauce
• a choice of ricotta or cottage cheese
• mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• either ground beef or Italian sausage

This easy recipe is as traditional as it gets. And if you’re feeling experimental, you can even try replacing the noodles with a layer of ravioli for an extra cheesy twist!

Tater Tot Casserole

Finally, we have the Tater Tot Casserole. This dish is a beloved classic in the Midwest, commonly enjoyed at potlucks and family gatherings. It’s a simple concoction of:

• ground beef
• onions
• garlic
• Worcestershire sauce
• sour cream
• condensed cream of mushroom soup
• corn
• cheddar cheese
• frozen tater tots

The dish is then baked until the tater tots are golden brown, creating an added dimension of texture and flavor. The result is a hearty and satisfying meal that’s not only economical but also a hit with kids.

No-Fuss Sandwiches and Wraps

If casseroles don’t appeal to you, consider some effortless sandwiches and wraps for an easy lunch. These are perfect for a quick dinner, especially if you’re not in the mood for something heavy or looking for lazy dinner ideas.

From Cheesy Salsa Chicken Tacos to Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions sandwiches, and Ham & cheese sliders, there’s a sandwich or wrap to fit every taste.

Grilled Caprese Panini

First up is the Grilled Caprese Panini. Inspired by the classic Caprese salad, this sandwich features:

• Ripe tomatoes
• Creamy fresh mozzarella
• Bread brushed with olive oil
• Optional: balsamic vinegar drizzled on the ingredients
• Optional: light spread of butter or avocado on the bread, or simply a drizzle of olive oil for added taste.

If you lack a panini press, fret not! The sandwich can be grilled using a heavy pot or pan to press it down on a grill pan for those characteristic grill marks. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and are best reheated in a panini press or an oven preheated to 300ºF.

BBQ Chicken Wrap

Next, we have the BBQ Chicken Wrap. This wrap starts with well-seasoned chicken breast using a blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. The chicken can be cooked on a griddle pan or simply pan-fried if a barbecue isn’t available.

The wrap is best served immediately to prevent the coleslaw from becoming watery, which can happen as it sits. You can also add fillings like bacon, cheese, or avocado for extra flavor and texture.

Tuna Salad Lettuce Wraps

Lastly, for a low-carb option, we have Tuna Salad Lettuce Wraps. This dish is quick and easy to make, using romaine lettuce leaves instead of bread for a crisp and refreshing alternative. The salad consists of:

• Tuna packed in olive oil
• Mayo
• Dijon mustard
• Lemon juice
• Celery seed
• Salt or Vege-Sal
• Capers
• Dill pickle relish
• Thinly sliced green onions

Combine these ingredients to create a delicious and healthy tuna salad.

To add more flavors and texture, diced tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, and chopped avocado can be included as optional toppings.

Simple Salads for Light Dinners

As the night progresses, you might lean towards a lighter dinner. And what could be lighter and healthier than a fresh, crisp salad? These simple salads are perfect for a light dinner, offering a blend of several nutrients and the ability to mix and match ingredients like:

• veggies
• fruits
• nuts
• cheeses

For busy parents, a fulfilling minute dinner is essential, especially during busy weeknights, even for picky eaters and picky kids.

With diverse options like Greek, Mediterranean, Asian, or Southwestern themes, you can relish a different cuisine each Sunday without sacrificing health or simplicity.

Greek Quinoa Salad

First up is the Greek Quinoa Salad, a protein-packed dish that combines:

• quinoa
• crunchy cucumbers
• ripe tomatoes
• sliced olives
• tangy feta cheese

Additional ingredients like red onion, lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs such as parsley can be mixed in to elevate the flavor and richness of the salad.

And for a final touch, the salad can be tossed with a zesty lemon-oregano dressing.

Southwest Chicken Salad

Next, we have the Southwest Chicken Salad. This salad features a combination of:

• Grilled chicken
• Black beans
• Corn
• Avocado

creating a mix of flavors and textures. A chipotle-lime dressing is used to dress the salad, providing a smoky and tangy flavor that enhances the zesty profile of the dish.

It’s a refreshing and wholesome salad that’s perfect for a light dinner.

Spinach Strawberry Salad with Goat Cheese

Lastly, we have the Spinach Strawberry Salad with Goat Cheese. This salad is a delightful combination of fresh baby spinach, succulent strawberries, and rich, crumbled goat cheese.

To tie it all together, the salad is brought together with a homemade balsamic vinaigrette consisting of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt. For added crunch and texture, toasted walnuts are included in the salad.

It’s a refreshing and flavorful salad that’s perfect for a leisurely Sunday dinner.

Breakfast-for-Dinner Ideas

Who restricts breakfast to just mornings? Breakfast-for-dinner is a fun, unconventional way to mix up your Sunday dinners! And with options like:

• Spinach and Mushroom Strata
• Monte Cristo Sandwich
• Cowboy Breakfast Bowls
• Buckwheat Galettes With Ham & Egg
• Classic Tofu Scramble
• Baked Eggs & Zoodle Bundles
• Best-Ever Migas
• BLT Eggs Benedict
• Bagel with Lox
• Brie Omelet
• Potato Chip Frittata
• Homemade McDonald’s Hash Browns

There’s a breakfast-for-dinner idea to suit every palate.

Pancake Bar

Let’s start with a Pancake Bar - a fun and interactive breakfast-for-dinner idea that’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. Topping ideas for a pancake bar are limitless, including:

• Assorted fresh berries
• Bananas
• Pineapple
• Mango
• Kiwi
• Pomegranate seeds
• Chocolate chips
• Mini marshmallows
• Marshmallow fluff
• Assorted nuts
• Cinnamon-sugar

And to complete the meal, you can serve the pancakes with sides like breakfast sausages, crisp cooked bacon, or ham. It’s a fun way to let everyone customize their own pancakes and enjoy a delicious, personalized meal.

Veggie Omelette with Toast

Next up, we have the Veggie Omelette with Toast. This dish includes the following steps:

1. Whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook the egg mixture in a skillet, occasionally lifting the edges to let uncooked egg flow to the edges.
3. Once the base is partially set, fill half of the omelette with cheese and vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, tomatoes, onions, or bell peppers.
4. Fold the omelette over the fillings.

Serve with toast.

And don’t forget to serve the omelette with a side of toast, opting for whole wheat, sourdough, or your preferred bread type.

Shakshuka

Lastly, we have Shakshuka - a North African and Middle Eastern dish of poached eggs in a simmering tomato sauce with a mixture of spices. To make Shakshuka, onions and bell peppers are sautéed in olive oil, after which garlic and spices like paprika, cumin, and chili powder are added, followed by tomatoes.

Once the spicy tomato sauce is ready, eggs are gently poached on top to the desired doneness. While Shakshuka features poached eggs, it’s worth mentioning that a fried egg can also be a delicious alternative for those who prefer a different texture.

And while Shakshuka is traditionally vegetarian, it can be customized to include cheeses like feta or goat cheese. It’s a flavorful, spicy, and easy meal that can be prepared in less than 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for any meal, not just dinner.

Sweet Treats to End the Night

Having covered dinner, it’s time to progress to the sweetest segment of the meal - dessert! From no-bake chocolate peanut butter bars to fruit salad with honey lime dressing and mug brownies, there’s a quick and easy dessert to satisfy every sweet tooth.

No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars

Our first dessert is No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars. These bars are a simple dessert option that combines chocolate and peanut butter without the need for baking. The key ingredients typically include:

• Graham cracker crumbs
• Powdered sugar
• Melted butter or margarine
• Peanut butter
• Melted chocolate chips

The bars are prepared by creating separate layers for chocolate and peanut butter which are then chilled to solidify. It’s a delectable treat that can be whipped up in no time!

Fruit Salad with Honey Lime Dressing

We then move to the Fruit Salad with Honey Lime Dressing. This refreshing and healthy dessert combines the natural sweetness of fruit with a zesty and sweet dressing. The salad typically features a blend of berries, melons, and citrus fruits.

The dressing is whisked from honey, fresh lime juice, and occasionally, lime zest for a sweet and tangy flavor. Enhancements to the dressing can include poppy seeds and fresh mint, elevating both the taste and appearance of the salad.

Mug Brownie

Finally, we reach the Mug Brownie. This single-serving dessert is cooked in the microwave, making it an ideal option for a quick and indulgent treat. Mug brownie recipes typically call for common pantry ingredients such as:

• unsweetened cocoa powder
• all-purpose flour
• granulated sugar
• milk
• vegetable oil
• vanilla extract
• chocolate chips

To make a mug brownie, follow these steps:

1. Combine the ingredients in a microwave-safe mug.
2. Cook on high power for about 1 minute.
3. Check if the brownie is set but still moist. If not, cook for additional 10-second intervals until desired consistency is reached.
4. Enjoy this speedy, satisfying, and indulgent dessert perfect for ending a lazy Sunday dinner on a sweet note.

How Lazy Dinners Positively Affect the Sunday Scaries

Ah, the "Sunday Scaries," that delightful parade of dread and anxiety that marches through your mind as you contemplate the impending doom of Monday morning.

But don't freak out quite yet, for the noble art of Lazy Dinners stands as a bulwark against such woes. Imagine a world where the most taxing decision you face is whether to add an extra dollop of peanut butter to your No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars. That's a world I want to live in.

And for those of us who drank a little bit too much on Saturday night, check out this list of the Best Food for Hangover Anxiety so you can have a lazy meal while also making your self-doubt and worries disappear. Lazy Dinners serve as a beacon of hope, they remind us that yes, it is perfectly acceptable to consider a Brie Omelette an appropriate cure for our self-inflicted woes.

The Sunday Scaries are often exacerbated by a hangover. So, instead of indulging in the hair-of-the-dog and drinking more alcohol, consider taking THC gummies, turning your kitchen into a laughter-filled laboratory where the experiments often end in deliciousness or, at the very least, an amusing mess.

If you're not a fan of getting high, but still want a stress-free dinner experience, try cooking while experiencing the mellow vibes that CBD gummies offer. They transform meal prep from a chore into an tranquil event that brings joy.

It's not just about making food; it's about making memories and, quite frankly, making something that helps you forget that tomorrow is Monday.

Summary

We’ve covered a wide range of lazy Sunday dinner ideas - from one-pot meals and slow cooker favorites, to quick sheet pan dinners, cozy casseroles, and no-fuss sandwiches and wraps.

We’ve also explored the idea of having breakfast for dinner and introduced some simple salads for light dinners. And of course, we couldn’t forget about the sweet treats to end the night.

Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty casserole, a refreshing salad, or a quick and easy wrap, there’s a recipe for you.

And the best part? These recipes are not just delicious, but also easy to prepare, meaning you can enjoy a relaxing Sunday evening without spending hours in the kitchen.

So ditch the bad vibes that the scaries bring, pop a couple of CBD or THC gummies and let your Sunday night dinner be something you look forward to.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's a good Sunday soul food meal?

A good Sunday soul food meal could include Southern fried chicken, Louisiana red beans and rice, and a side of green beans and potatoes for a hearty and flavorful feast.

What can I have instead of Sunday roast?

You can have beef hotpot, beef stew, corned beef hash, meat and potato pie, steak, or stew and dumplings as alternatives to Sunday roast.

Does having a lazy dinner help mitigate the Sunday Scaries?

Absolutely, having a simple, lazy and relaxing dinner will take the anxiety out of the kitchen and allow you to enjoy your day without planning an extravagant dinner.