The Dinner Dilemma Solved: Top Main Course Ideas
Ever find yourself staring into the fridge, wondering what to make for dinner? You’re not alone! Dinner decisions can be tough, but we’ve got you covered with a mouthwatering roundup of main course recipes. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight fix or a standout dish for a special occasion, these ideas will keep your table exciting and your taste buds happy.
Why Variety Matters at Dinner
Dinner should be fun, not stressful. That’s why our roundup features everything from saucy pastas to hearty handhelds. There’s something here for every craving and every cook, so you’ll never get stuck in a food rut again. Bookmark this page, because we’ll keep adding new recipes every month!
Spotlight Recipe: Croque Madame Strata
One of our absolute favorites is the Croque Madame Strata, a twist on the classic French Croque Madame sandwich, dreamed up by Canadian Chef Craig Flinn. This dish is perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner—especially when you want something comforting, cheesy, and satisfying.
What makes this dish special?
It combines caramelized onions, savory ham, and a mix of OKA and white cheddar cheeses, all baked into a creamy, custardy bread pudding. Serve it with a crispy French baguette and a fresh green salad for a meal that feels both fancy and homey.
How to Make Croque Madame Strata
Ingredients
1 large onion, finely sliced
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp butter
12 eggs
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
1/4 tsp grated nutmeg
2 cups whole milk
1 cup coffee cream
8 oz cooked ham, diced
1 1/2 cups OKA cheese, grated
1 1/2 cups white cheddar cheese, grated
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 French-style baguette or loaf
Instructions
Caramelize the Onions:
In a pan, fry the onions in olive oil and butter over medium heat until they’re lightly caramelized. Set aside to cool.Prepare the Custard:
In a large bowl, beat the eggs with Dijon mustard and nutmeg. Add milk and coffee cream, and mix well.Mix in the Goodies:
Fold in the ham, most of the cheeses (save some for topping), parsley, salt, and pepper.Prepare the Bread:
Tear the baguette into chunks and place them in another large bowl.Combine and Soak:
Pour the custard over the bread and mix well. Let it soak for at least an hour, or overnight for best results.Bake:
Spread the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Top with caramelized onions and the reserved cheese.Cook:
Bake at 350°F for 45–55 minutes, until golden and set. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Chef’s Tip:
You can prep this dish a day or two ahead and reheat it in a low oven before serving.
More Dinner Inspiration on the Way
This is just the start! Check back often for new recipes and fresh ideas to keep your dinner table lively and delicious. With options like these, you’ll never have to ask, “What’s for dinner?” again.
