7 aldi weeknight dinners from five ingredients

Finding time to cook a wholesome dinner during a busy week can be challenging. Thankfully, Aldi offers a variety of affordable ingredients that can come together in delicious and simple meals. Whether you’re a fan of chicken, pasta, or vegetarian options, these seven recipes require just five ingredients each, making them perfect for quick weeknight dinners.

1. Sheet Pan Lemon Herb Chicken

This dish is all about simplicity and flavor. Start by marinating chicken breasts in lemon juice, olive oil, and your favorite herbs. Place the chicken on a sheet pan alongside sliced potatoes and green beans. Bake until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are golden and crispy. The tangy lemon paired with fresh herbs elevates the flavors, making it a delightful meal for any night of the week.

The beauty of a sheet pan dinner lies in its minimal cleanup, allowing you to savor your meal without worrying about a pile of dishes. You can switch up the vegetables based on what you have on hand, making it a versatile option that’s easy to adapt to your family’s preferences.

2. Cheesy Tortellini with Spinach

For a comforting and cheesy delight, cook a package of Aldi’s cheese tortellini according to the instructions. As the pasta cooks, sauté some fresh spinach in olive oil until wilted. Combine the cooked tortellini with the spinach and stir in a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese melts beautifully, creating a creamy and indulgent sauce that clings to the pasta.

This dish is a surefire hit with children and adults alike, offering a rich and satisfying meal with minimal effort. You can enhance it further by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a sprinkling of nutmeg for an extra depth of flavor.

3. One-Pot Sausage and Rice

One-pot meals are lifesavers during hectic weeks, and this sausage and rice dish is no exception. Begin by browning sliced sausage in a pot. Once browned, add rice, chicken broth, and canned diced tomatoes. Let it all simmer until the rice is tender and absorbs the flavorful broth.

This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. The sausage infuses the rice with a savory richness while the tomatoes add a nice tangy contrast. It’s a hearty meal that warms you from the inside out, perfect for those cooler evenings.

4. Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

Whip up a restaurant-quality meal with Aldi’s tomato basil sauce. Cook your pasta of choice and drain it, then return it to the pot. Pour in the tomato basil sauce and add a splash of cream for a luscious texture. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through.

This dish is incredibly comforting and satisfying, with the tomato basil sauce offering a perfect balance of sweet and savory. You can garnish with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an added burst of flavor.

5. Quick Beef Stir-Fry

For a speedy dinner, grab some Aldi beef strips and your favorite stir-fry vegetables. Sauté the beef in a hot pan until browned, then add the vegetables and a splash of soy sauce. Stir-fry everything together until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

This dish is wonderfully versatile, allowing you to use any vegetables you have on hand. It’s a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet without skimping on flavor. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.

6. Garlic Shrimp and Broccoli

Garlic shrimp is a classic dish that never fails to impress. Start by sautéing shrimp in olive oil with garlic until pink. Add broccoli florets and continue to cook until the broccoli is tender. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing touch.

This meal is not only quick to prepare but also light and healthy. The combination of garlic and lemon enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp, while the broccoli provides a satisfying crunch. Serve it with rice or pasta for a complete and fulfilling dinner.

7. Easy Veggie Quesadillas

Quesadillas are a fantastic way to enjoy a vegetarian meal that’s both filling and tasty. Use Aldi tortillas and fill them with shredded cheese and a mix of your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers and onions. Cook on a skillet until the tortillas are golden and the cheese is melted.

These quesadillas are endlessly customizable, allowing you to experiment with different fillings depending on your mood or what you have in the fridge. Serve with salsa or guacamole for dipping, adding a burst of flavor to each bite.