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39 Best Sunday Dinner Ideas to Share in 2024

Published on Jul 31st 2024
Sunday dinner ideas

The best way to beat Sunday blues is with delicious Sunday dinner ideas. It’s not news that Sundays can bring anxiety as we have the week ahead of us.

Experts suggest that most people experience a feeling of uneasiness once the weekend ends. However, one of the best ways to start the week motivated and fueled is with delicious food.

Whether you’re looking for a lazy Sunday dinner or a dish that boosts your energy for the week to come, with just a few ingredients and a spark of creativity you can transform your evening into a memorable feast.

From comforting classics to veggie delights, this list has 39 recipes designed to bring people together through delicious and comforting flavors. Let's dive in and discover your next favorite Sunday dinner!

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Easiest Sunday Dinner Ideas for Two

1. Baked Spaghetti 

What would be a good Sunday dinner? Without a doubt, one of the best Sunday dinner ideas of all time is baked spaghetti. It’s easy, delicious and it takes no time.

To make it, start by cooking your favorite pasta to al dente and mixing it with a rich tomato sauce, seasoned ground beef, and a medley of Italian herbs.

Layer the spaghetti mixture in a baking dish with generous amounts of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, ensuring every bite is a delightful blend of creamy, savory goodness. Bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden, creating a crispy top layer that adds a satisfying texture to each forkful.

If you’re looking to enhance your culinary skills, consider exploring cooking classes in Atlanta, cooking classes in Phoenix, cooking classes in Denver, or cooking classes near you where you can learn how to perfect dishes like baked spaghetti and more.

For those who prefer the convenience of learning from home, online cooking classes offer a flexible and accessible way to improve your cooking techniques. 

spaghetti pasta making cooking classes
via Classpop!

2. Gnocchi With Bolognese 

For a romantic and satisfying Sunday dinner idea for two, gnocchi with bolognese is an excellent choice. This dish combines tender potato gnocchi with a hearty, slow-cooked Bolognese sauce, creating a meal that is both comforting and elegant. 

Start by preparing the Bolognese sauce: sauté onions, carrots and celery until soft, then add ground beef and pork, cooking until browned. Stir in tomatoes, red wine and a blend of Italian herbs, letting the sauce simmer until rich and flavorful.

While the sauce cooks, prepare your gnocchi. Cook the gnocchi until they float to the top of the pot, then toss them with the Bolognese sauce, ensuring each piece is well-coated.

Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil for a beautiful presentation. This dish is also perfect for those looking for summer date ideas, as it’s easy to make yet delicious. 

3. Roasted Chicken With Veggies

For a traditional Sunday meal that embodies comfort and simplicity, roasted chicken with veggies is a timeless choice. This dish is a classic among Sunday dinner ideas, bringing together succulent roasted chicken with a medley of seasonal vegetables.

Start by seasoning a whole chicken with your favorite herbs and spices, ensuring the skin is well-coated for a crispy finish. Surround the chicken with a colorful variety of your favorite veggies all tossed in olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.

Roast everything together until the chicken is golden brown and the vegetables are tender and caramelized. 

4. Pan-Seared Steak 

For those seeking Sunday dinner ideas, pan-seared steak is a standout choice. To make it, start by selecting your favorite high-quality steak and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Heat a cast-iron skillet until it’s smoking hot and sear the steaks for a few minutes. add a pat of butter, garlic and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the pan.

Cook to your desired level of doneness, then let the steaks rest before serving. Pair your pan-seared steak with a side of creamy mashed potatoes, sautéed green beans or a fresh salad to create a hearty meal.

5. Fried Chicken

What is a good Sunday Southern dinner? When it comes to Southern Sunday dinner ideas, few dishes are as iconic as fried chicken. To create this Southern staple, start by marinating chicken pieces in buttermilk, which tenderizes the meat and adds a subtle tang.

Next, dredge the chicken in a seasoned flour mixture, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Fry the chicken in hot oil until it reaches a perfect golden brown and crispy texture. 

fried chicken Southern Sunday dinner idea
via Canva

6. Mexican Nachos

If you want to spice up your Sunday dinner ideas for two, Mexican-inspired meals are perfect. For example, Mexican nachos are not only easy to prepare but also packed with vibrant tastes and textures. S

tart with a base of crispy tortilla chips, then layer on seasoned ground beef or shredded chicken.

Add generous amounts of melted cheese, black beans, jalapeños and diced tomatoes. Bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden, then top with fresh ingredients like guacamole, sour cream, chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime. 

7. Shrimp Tacos With Avocado Salsa

If you’re looking for summer Sunday dinner ideas, tacos can be a delicious addition to your menu. Shrimp tacos and avocado salsa are not only refreshing but they’re also easy to make.

These tacos combine shrimp with a zesty avocado salsa, making for a light yet satisfying meal. Start by marinating the shrimp in a blend of lime juice, garlic and spices, then quickly sauté or grill until they’re perfectly cooked and slightly charred.

Assemble your tacos with warm tortillas, adding the shrimp and topping with a refreshing avocado salsa made from ripe avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro and a splash of lime juice. 

8. Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken

For flavorful Sunday dinner ideas, chicken is always versatile and delicious. This spinach and feta stuffed chicken can transform a simple dinner into a gourmet meal with minimal effort. 

Start by mixing fresh spinach with crumbled feta cheese, garlic and a touch of lemon zest. Carefully stuff the chicken breasts with this mixture, securing them with toothpicks or kitchen twine.

Season the outside of the chicken with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of herbs. Sear the chicken in a hot skillet to achieve a golden crust, then transfer it to the oven to finish cooking until tender and juicy. 

9. Stuffed Bell Peppers

When it comes to hearty Sunday dinner ideas for family, stuffed bell peppers are a delicious and healthy choice. This dish combines colorful bell peppers with a savory filling that's both nutritious and satisfying.

Begin by hollowing out the bell peppers and preparing a filling with a mix of ground beef or turkey, cooked rice, onions, garlic and your favorite herbs and spices. Mix in some tomato sauce for added flavor and moisture.

Stuff each bell pepper with the filling, then bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through. Top with shredded cheese during the last few minutes of baking for a deliciously melty finish. 

colorful bell peppers stuffed with sausage and cheese
via Canva

10. Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

Sundar dinner ideas can be both delicious and easy to make. The perfect example of this is this exquisite creamy tomato basil pasta. Start by cooking your favorite pasta al dente.

Meanwhile, prepare the sauce by sautéing garlic in olive oil, then adding crushed tomatoes and a touch of cream for a luscious texture. Stir in fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added depth and flavor.

Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce until well-coated, and finish with an extra garnish of basil and cheese. 

Lazy Sunday Dinner Ideas for Family

11. Lasagna

Sundays are the days when most people feel a bit more lazy than usual. Here’s when Sunday dinner ideas for family that are easy to make like lasagna come in handy.

Start by layering sheets of lasagna noodles with a rich meat sauce made from ground beef, onions, garlic and a blend of tomatoes and herbs. Add creamy ricotta cheese, a generous amount of shredded mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan between the layers.

Bake until the cheese is bubbling and golden, and the flavors are melded together beautifully. 

12. One Pan Shrimp Boil

For delightful and effortless Sunday dinner ideas or standout dinner party ideas, one pan shrimp boil is a fantastic option. This dish captures the essence of a classic shrimp boil, combining shrimp, corn on the cob, potatoes and sausage in a single pan for an easy and flavorful meal.

Begin by seasoning the shrimp and other ingredients with Old Bay seasoning and your favorite spices. Arrange them on a large sheet pan and roast until everything is cooked through and infused with delicious flavors. 

13. Chicken Pot Pie

One of the most comforting and effortless choices among lazy Sunday dinner ideas is chicken pot pie. This dish features tender chunks of chicken combined with a medley of vegetables in a creamy, savory sauce, all encased in a flaky pie crust.

Start by cooking chicken with onions, carrots, peas, and celery, then blend with a rich, creamy sauce made from chicken broth and a touch of cream.

Pour the mixture into a pie dish and cover with a pre-made or homemade pie crust. Bake until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly and hot. 

chicken pot pie Sunday dinner idea
via Canva

14. One-Pan Baked Ziti

For an easy yet impressive option among date night dinner ideas, one-pan baked ziti is a perfect choice. This dish combines the comforting flavors of ziti pasta with a rich, savory tomato sauce, melted cheese and a hint of Italian seasoning, all baked together in a single pan.

Start by mixing uncooked ziti with marinara sauce, ground meat (if desired) and a blend of cheeses. Bake until the pasta is tender, the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is golden and melted.

This dish offers a satisfying and cozy meal with minimal cleanup, making it ideal for a relaxed date night at home. 

15. Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Southern Sunday dinner ideas are known for being packed with flavor. This is the case of pulled pork sandwiches. This dish features tender, slow-cooked pork that’s been seasoned with a blend of spices, cooked until it’s easily shredded and then piled high on a soft bun.

Begin by seasoning a pork shoulder with a mix of paprika, garlic powder and other spices, then cook it low and slow in a slow cooker or oven until it’s incredibly tender.

Shred the pork and toss it with barbecue sauce for added flavor. Serve the pulled pork on buns with classic Southern sides like coleslaw or pickles. 

16. Breakfast for Dinner

Sundar dinner ideas can be as fun and versatile as having breakfast for dinner. This meal turns classic breakfast favorites into a comforting evening feast.

Imagine starting with fluffy pancakes or waffles, topped with fresh fruit and a drizzle of maple syrup. Pair them with crispy bacon or savory sausage links for a satisfying main course.

You can also whip up a hearty scramble with eggs, cheese and your choice of vegetables and meats, served alongside golden hash browns or buttery toast. 

17. Taco Bar

Don’t get misled by the name, setting a taco bar is easier than it sounds. This is one of those lazy Sunday dinner ideas that feels like an exquisite feast made in no time.

Start by preparing a variety of fillings, such as seasoned ground beef, shredded chicken or grilled veggies. Offer a selection of taco shells and tortillas, along with a range of toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, guacamole and salsa. 

assembling taco at taco bar
via Canva

18. Frozen Pizza Night

One of the easiest Sunday dinner ideas are frozen pizza. This is a no-fuss meal that allows you to enjoy delicious pizza with minimal preparation and cleanup.

Simply stock up on a variety of frozen pizzas, from classic cheese and pepperoni to gourmet options with unique toppings. Pop them into the oven, and in no time, you'll have a hot, crispy pizza ready to enjoy. 

19. Stir-Fry

If you’re looking for gourmet weeknight date ideas that are easy and delicious a stir-fry is perfect. This versatile dish allows you to combine a variety of fresh vegetables, proteins like chicken, beef, or tofu, and a savory sauce into a single, delicious meal.

Start by slicing your choice of meat or tofu into bite-sized pieces and sautéing it with a mix of colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli and snap peas.

Add a flavorful sauce made from soy sauce, garlic, ginger and a touch of honey or hoisin sauce. 

20. Chicken Alfredo Pasta

What sounds good for dinner on a Sunday? Definitely a warm and comforty pasta like chicken Alfredo pasta. This dish features tender pieces of chicken cooked in a rich Alfredo sauce, served over a bed of perfectly cooked pasta. Start by seasoning and sautéing chicken breasts until golden and cooked through.

Meanwhile, prepare a luscious Alfredo sauce with butter, heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, simmering until it’s smooth and creamy.

Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce and add the chicken for a harmonious blend of flavors. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan for a finishing touch. 

Kid-Friendly Sunday Dinner Ideas

21. Mac and Cheese

What is a typical American Sunday dinner? Mac and cheese is a staple american dinner that is both easy and satisfying. This dish combines tender macaroni with a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s both rich and satisfying.

Start by cooking the macaroni until al dente, then prepare a cheese sauce using a blend of butter, flour, milk and a mix of cheeses such as sharp cheddar, Gruyère or Parmesan. Once the sauce is smooth and velvety, fold in the cooked macaroni and stir until well coated. 

mac and cheese Sunday dinner idea for kids
via Canva

22. Chicken Tenders

When it comes to family-friendly Sunday dinner ideas, chicken tenders are always a crowd-pleasing meal. This dish features crispy, golden-brown chicken strips that are tender on the inside and perfectly seasoned on the outside.

Start by dipping chicken tenders in a mixture of flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs, then bake or fry until they reach a crispy texture. Serve with a variety of dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue or ranch.

23. Spaghetti and Meatballs

For a traditional Sunday meal, spaghetti and meatballs is a timeless and comforting choice. This classic dish pairs al dente spaghetti with hearty, flavorful meatballs and a rich marinara sauce.

Start by preparing the meatballs with a blend of ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese and herbs. Bake or pan-fry them until they’re cooked through and slightly crispy on the outside.

Simultaneously, simmer a tomato sauce with garlic, onions and Italian spices until it’s thick and aromatic. Toss the cooked spaghetti with the sauce and top with the meatballs. 

24. Quesadillas 

One of the most common Sunday dinner ideas given to their versatility are quesadillas. These savory, cheesy tortillas can be customized with a variety of fillings, making them perfect for a casual family meal.

Start by filling flour tortillas with shredded cheese and your choice of ingredients like cooked chicken, beef, sautéed vegetables or black beans. Cook the quesadillas in a skillet until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy and golden brown.

Slice into wedges and serve with traditional accompaniments such as salsa, guacamole and sour cream. 

25. Sloppy Joes

One of the satisfying Sunday dinner ideas, sloppy joes are a great choice. This classic comfort food features seasoned ground beef simmered in a tangy, sweet tomato sauce, served on soft hamburger buns.

Start by cooking ground beef with onions and garlic until browned. Stir in a mixture of ketchup, mustard, brown sugar and Worcestershire sauce, allowing the flavors to meld together as the sauce thickens.

Spoon the flavorful mixture onto toasted buns and serve with simple sides like coleslaw or potato chips. 

sloppy joe sandwiches on wooden board
via Canva

26. DIY Burrito Bowls 

For summer Sunday dinner ideas, a fun and customizable option are DIY burrito bowls. These bowls allow everyone to create their own personalized meal, making them ideal for a relaxed and interactive family dinner.

Start with a base of fluffy rice or quinoa, then offer a variety of toppings such as seasoned black beans, grilled chicken or beef, corn, cherry tomatoes, shredded cheese and fresh greens. Add some extras like guacamole, sour cream and salsa for extra flavor. 

27. Hot Dogs

Sunday dinner ideas can be as simple as hot dogs. These simple yet satisfying treats are perfect for a casual family meal or a laid-back gathering.

Grill or pan-fry your favorite hot dogs until they’re nicely charred and heated through. Serve them in soft buns with a variety of toppings, such as mustard, ketchup, relish, onions and sauerkraut.

28. Cheese Veggie Muffins

Cheese veggie muffins are among those sunday dinner ideas filled with nutrition and flavor. Start by mixing together flour, baking powder and a pinch of salt, then fold in shredded cheese and finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, spinach or zucchini.

Pour in some milk and beaten eggs to create a moist batter. Spoon the mixture into muffin tins and bake until golden and cooked through. 

29. Sweet and Sour Chicken

For vibrant Sunday dinner ideas, sweet and sour chicken offers a combination of bold and vibrant flavors. This dish features tender pieces of chicken coated in a tangy and sweet sauce, combined with colorful vegetables for a delightful meal.

Start by coating bite-sized chicken pieces in a light batter and frying them until crispy.

In a separate pan, prepare the sauce with ingredients like pineapple juice, vinegar, ketchup and brown sugar, simmering until it thickens to a glossy finish. Add bell peppers, pineapple chunks and onions to the sauce, then toss in the fried chicken pieces. 

sweet and sour chicken Sunday dinner idea for kids
via Canva

30. Homemade Fish Sticks

For a crispy and delicious Sunday dinner idea, homemade fish sticks are a perfect choice. These tender fish filets coated in a crunchy breadcrumb crust offer a wholesome and tasty alternative to store-bought versions.

Start by cutting fresh white fish, such as cod or haddock, into strips. Dip the fish pieces in flour, then beaten eggs and finally coat them in a mixture of breadcrumbs and seasonings like garlic powder, paprika and parsley.

Bake or fry the fish sticks until they are golden brown and cooked through. Serve with a side of tartar sauce, lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauces.

Vegetarian Sunday Dinner Ideas

31. Chickpea Curry

One of the Sunday dinner ideas perfect for veggie lovers is the chickpea curry. This hearty vegetarian dish is packed with protein and rich in spices, making it a satisfying meal for the whole family.

Start by sautéing onions, garlic and ginger in a pot until fragrant. Add spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala and cook for a minute to release their flavors.

Stir in canned chickpeas, diced tomatoes and coconut milk, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let the curry cook until it thickens and the chickpeas are tender, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. 

RELATED: 31 Healthy & Light Dinner Ideas to Try in 2024

32. Butternut Squash Risotto

If you’re looking for more gourmet Sunday dinner ideas, butternut squash risotto is an excellent choice. Start by roasting diced butternut squash until tender and caramelized.

In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until softened. Add arborio rice and cook, stirring, until the grains are lightly toasted.

Gradually add warm vegetable broth, a ladleful at a time, stirring constantly until the liquid is absorbed before adding more. Stir in the roasted butternut squash and continue cooking until the rice is creamy and tender.

Finish with a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese and a knob of butter for extra richness.

33. Eggplant Parmesan

One of the most hearty vegetarian Sunday dinner ideas is eggplant parmesan. This classic Italian dish features layers of breaded eggplant slices, rich tomato sauce and melted cheese, making it a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Start by slicing the eggplant into rounds, then breading them by dipping in flour, beaten eggs and breadcrumbs. Fry or bake the breaded eggplant until golden and crispy.

In a baking dish, layer the eggplant slices with marinara sauce and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Repeat the layers and finish with a generous amount of cheese on top. 

eggplant Parmesan in red sauce
via Canva

34. Lentil Soup

Lentil soup is a nourishing meal, packed with protein, fiber and essential nutrients, making it one of the top foods that give you energy. Start by sautéing onions, carrots and celery in olive oil until they are soft and fragrant.

Add garlic, cumin and thyme for extra flavor, then stir in dried lentils. Pour in vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Simmer until the lentils are tender and the flavors are well-blended.

35. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

Sweet potato and black bean tacos offer a perfect balance of flavor and nutrition, making them an excellent choice for those seeking light dinner ideas or Sunday dinner ideas.

These vibrant tacos combine the earthy sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the hearty texture of black beans, all wrapped in warm tortillas.

Topped with fresh ingredients like cilantro, avocado, and a squeeze of lime, they provide a satisfying yet not overly heavy meal.

36. Vegetarian Enchiladas

Vegetarian enchiladas offer a delicious and satisfying option for Sunday dinner ideas, combining comfort food appeal with a plant-based twist.

These flavorful roll-ups typically feature a filling of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions and zucchini, mixed with protein-rich beans and cheese, all wrapped in soft corn tortillas.

The enchiladas are then smothered in a zesty tomato-based sauce and topped with more cheese before being baked to golden perfection. This dish is ideal for Sunday dinners as it can be prepared in advance, allowing for a relaxed evening meal.

37. Greek Salad With Pita and Hummus

Greek salad with pita and hummus is a refreshing and satisfying option for summer Sunday dinner ideas. This Mediterranean-inspired meal combines crisp vegetables, tangy feta cheese and briny olives in a light vinaigrette, creating a cool and invigorating salad perfect for warm evenings.

Accompanied by soft, warm pita bread and creamy hummus, this dish offers a balance of flavors and textures that capture the essence of casual summer dining.

pouring olive oil on Greek salad
via Canva

38. Vegetarian Chili

Vegetarian chili stands out as a hearty and flavorful option among vegetarian Sunday dinner ideas. This robust one-pot meal combines a variety of beans, such as kidney, black and pinto, with colorful vegetables like bell peppers, onions and tomatoes in a rich, spiced broth.

The addition of plant-based proteins like textured vegetable protein or quinoa can give the chili a meaty texture without the meat.

Seasoned with a blend of chili powder, cumin and other aromatic spices, vegetarian chili offers a warming and satisfying meal perfect for a cozy Sunday evening.

39. Vegetable Frittata

Vegetable frittata is a versatile and delicious option for Sunday dinner ideas, offering a light yet satisfying meal that's perfect for winding down the weekend.

To prepare a veggie frittata, beaten eggs are combined with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, spinach and onions, along with cheese such as feta or Parmesan.

The mixture is then cooked slowly on the stovetop before being finished under the broiler, resulting in a golden, puffy dish with a creamy interior.

Sunday dinners are more than just meals; they're opportunities to connect with loved ones, unwind before the new week begins and create lasting memories.

Whether you're cooking for a large family, hosting friends or enjoying a quiet meal for two, these ideas provide a springboard for creating your own perfect Sunday dinner tradition.

For even more fun food ideas, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!