Easy Sunday Dinner Recipes

Name: Easy Sunday Dinner Recipes
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon dried rosemary; 1 tablespoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 lemon, halved; 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 4 tablespoons butter; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, zucchini); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Inspiration

Discover a collection of easy Sunday dinner recipes that are perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. These dishes are not only simple to prepare but also delicious and satisfying.

Created by

Sybil Hawkes

Last updated on 2026-01-03T00:29:35.062Z

Sunday dinners are a cherished tradition in many households. This collection of easy recipes will make your Sundays stress-free while still delivering comforting meals that everyone will love.

Why You Will Love These Recipes
Quick and easy to prepare, saving you time on busy Sundays
Delicious flavors that bring the family together
Perfect for leftovers throughout the week

Gathering Around the Table

Sunday dinners have a special place in many families' hearts. They offer a chance to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy the simple pleasure of a home-cooked meal together. Whether it's a large family gathering or an intimate dinner, these easy recipes make it possible to create lasting memories without spending all day in the kitchen.

The joy of sharing a meal is amplified when the food is both delicious and easy to prepare. This collection of easy Sunday dinner recipes is designed to help you achieve that perfect balance, allowing you to focus on what truly matters – quality time with your loved ones.

Simplicity Meets Flavor

One of the best things about these recipes is their simplicity. Each dish is crafted with straightforward ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. The herb-roasted chicken, for instance, is not only easy to prepare but also brings a delightful aroma to your kitchen as it cooks. The combination of herbs and lemon infuses the chicken with a savory zest that your family will love.

Pairing the chicken with garlic mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables creates a harmonious meal that satisfies all taste buds. Each component complements the others, ensuring that your Sunday dinner is not only easy to make but also a delightful feast for everyone at the table.

Leftovers for the Week Ahead

One of the hidden benefits of cooking a hearty Sunday dinner is the potential for leftovers. The herb-roasted chicken is perfect for repurposing into sandwiches, salads, or soups throughout the week. This not only saves you time on busy weekdays but also ensures you enjoy the delicious flavors of your Sunday meal for days to come.

The garlic mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables hold up well in the fridge and can easily be reheated. You can even transform them into new dishes, such as potato cakes or vegetable frittatas, making your weeknight meals even easier and more enjoyable.

Ingredients

Herb Roasted Chicken

1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon dried rosemary
1 tablespoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 lemon, halved

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

2 lbs potatoes, peeled and chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
4 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Roasted Vegetables

2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, zucchini)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Gather all ingredients before starting your cooking process for a seamless experience.

Cooking Steps

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, mix olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin. Place the lemon halves inside the cavity of the chicken.

Roast the Chicken

Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste occasionally with the pan juices.

Make the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken is roasting, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add garlic, cream, butter, salt, and pepper, and mash until smooth.

Roast the Vegetables

Toss mixed vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast in the oven alongside the chicken for about 25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.

Once everything is cooked, let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Adding fresh herbs can elevate the flavor of your dishes even more.

Cooking Tips for Success

To ensure your herb-roasted chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before roasting. This helps the chicken cook more evenly. Additionally, using a meat thermometer can take the guesswork out of knowing when your chicken has reached a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

When making mashed potatoes, choose a starchy variety, such as Russet or Yukon Gold, for the best texture. Avoid over-mashing to prevent a gummy consistency; instead, aim for a smooth and creamy finish by using a potato masher or ricer.

Serving Suggestions

For an inviting presentation, consider serving the herb-roasted chicken on a large platter surrounded by the roasted vegetables. Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon slices to add a pop of color and freshness. This not only enhances the visual appeal of your meal but also lets everyone dig in family-style, fostering a sense of community at the dinner table.

Pair your Sunday dinner with a simple green salad and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the chicken and potatoes. A glass of your favorite wine or sparkling water can elevate the dining experience, making it feel extra special.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the chicken the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just let it come to room temperature before roasting.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream in the mashed potatoes?

You can use milk or chicken broth for a lighter version.

→ Are these recipes suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The roasted chicken and vegetables store well in the refrigerator and can be reheated for easy meals throughout the week.

→ Can I use a different kind of meat?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with turkey or a different cut of pork or beef based on your preference.