If I could predict how I’ll feel by the time Friday night dinner rolls around, it would make planning so much easier. Will it be one of those weeks that flew by, leaving me excited to cook something special to kick off the weekend?
Or will it be a week that dragged on so long that by Wednesday, I was already ready to call it quits? In that case, I’d probably be tempted to grab takeout or head straight to my favorite burger spot.
While I fully support ordering in on a Friday night, I also love the idea of starting the weekend with a cozy, homemade meal. If you’re looking for inspiration, check out these 23 easy Friday night dinners to get started.
Just because we’re cooking at home doesn’t mean we have to give up our favorite takeout flavors! You could go Asian with teriyaki chicken or shrimp stir-fry, Mexican with quesadillas or beef tacos, or Italian with pasta carbonara or a classic margherita pizza. These recipes are so simple that you might find yourself ditching takeout more often for delicious homemade meals.
On the other hand, if you actually have the energy to cook something a little more special, why not try baked mac and cheese, BBQ pulled pork, or homemade calzones? These recipes are low effort but high reward, making them perfect for a relaxing start to the weekend.
For even more weekend meal ideas, check out my list of Sunday dinners and brunch recipes—because good food makes every weekend better!
23 Easy Friday Night Dinner Ideas for a Cozy Weekend Kickoff!
- Margherita Pizza
- Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
- BBQ Chicken Sliders
- Creamy Tuscan Chicken
- Sheet Pan Fajitas
- Classic Cheeseburgers
- Baked Ziti with Ricotta
- Honey Garlic Salmon
- Chicken Alfredo Pasta
- Loaded Nachos
- Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry
- Buffalo Chicken Wraps
- Taco Rice Bowls
- Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
- Spaghetti Carbonara
- Homemade Chicken Pot Pie
- BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
- Baked Mac and Cheese
- Stuffed Bell Peppers
- French Bread Pizza
- Greek Chicken Gyros
- Sweet and Sour Meatballs
- One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken
This Post Is All About 23 Easy Friday Night Dinner Ideas for a Cozy Weekend Kickoff!