A Variety of Family Dinner Ideas from Julie Goodwin
Julie Goodwin has become a go-to source for easy, delicious, and budget-friendly family dinner ideas. From pasta bakes and pies to one-pan meals, soups, and stir-fries, her recipes are designed to please the whole family. Her approach to cooking is rooted in simplicity and affordability, making it possible to create satisfying meals without breaking the bank.
Julie, who was a columnist with The Australian Women’s Weekly for over a decade after winning the first season of MasterChef, returned to the publication in 2025 to share more of her favorite family dinner ideas and baking recipes. She emphasizes that her goal is to make meals as good as possible while keeping costs low. “Because I love food, I love eating and I love feeding the people I love, I wanted to make it as good as I possibly could, for as little as I possibly could,” she explained.
Her collection of recipes spans all seasons, offering hearty options for cooler months and lighter dishes for spring and summer. Whether you’re looking for fish pie, chicken cacciatore, or risotto, there’s something for every taste and occasion.
Quick and Easy Recipes
For those short on time, Julie offers a range of quick and easy dinners that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. These include:
- Julie Goodwin’s quick orecchiette pasta – a simple 5-ingredient dish ready in 20 minutes.
- Julie Goodwin’s creamy chicken & mushroom pasta – a family favorite that’s both comforting and flavorful.
- Julie Goodwin’s honey prawn stir fry with noodles – a quick and tasty option that brings out the best in seafood.
- Julie Goodwin’s curried mince & rice – an easy dinner that can be made in just 30 minutes.
- Julie Goodwin’s pesto pasta salad – a refreshing and light meal perfect for warmer weather.
- Julie Goodwin’s Lebanese-style pizza – a quick and easy dinner using lamb mince.
- Julie Goodwin’s fish tacos – a fun and flavorful way to enjoy seafood.
Hearty and Comforting Dishes
For those who prefer heartier meals, Julie has a variety of recipes that are ideal for colder months. These include:
- Julie Goodwin’s seafood pie – a classic comfort food that’s easy to prepare.
- Julie Goodwin’s spiced chicken with brown rice & cauliflower – a zesty and healthy option.
- Julie Goodwin’s Greek-style chicken tray bake – an easy family feast that’s packed with flavor.
- Julie Goodwin’s chicken & leek pie with potato bake topping – a unique twist on a traditional dish.
- Julie Goodwin’s Italian-style osso buco – a comforting meal that’s perfect for the cooler months.
- Julie Goodwin’s slow cooker lamb chops – a tender and flavorful dish cooked in a sweet and mild curry sauce.
- Julie Goodwin’s braised lamb chops in a sweet curry sauce – a warm and economical winter dish.
One-Pan Meals and Slow Cooker Recipes
Julie also offers a range of one-pan meals and slow cooker recipes that are perfect for busy days. These include:
- Julie Goodwin’s one-pan char siu chicken – a sticky and sweet dish that the whole family will love.
- Julie Goodwin’s Spanish chicken – a delicious one-pan dinner that’s easy to make.
- Julie Goodwin’s Cape Malay curry chicken – a fragrant and flavorful one-pot meal.
- Julie Goodwin’s easy chicken cacciatore – rich and aromatic, this recipe is sure to impress.
- Julie Goodwin’s slow-cooked lamb shanks – a flavorsome dinner that’s perfect for the cooler months.
- Julie Goodwin’s lamb forequarter chops with vegetables tray bake – a one-dish dinner that’s a winner.
Salads and Light Options
For lighter meals, Julie has a selection of salads and noodle dishes that are perfect for spring and summer:
- Julie Goodwin’s pesto pasta salad – a quick and easy salad to share.
- Julie Goodwin’s turmeric fish & Vietnamese noodle salad – a gluten-free option that’s full of flavor.
- Julie Goodwin’s seafood stew – featuring prawns, mussels, and chorizo in a smoky tomato sauce.
- Julie Goodwin’s lemon & spinach risotto – a creamy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any season.
- Julie Goodwin’s curried prawns – a simple and tasty option that’s easy to prepare.
Dessert Ideas
Julie also shares some of her favorite dessert recipes, including:
- Julie Goodwin’s ginger cake with orange caramel sauce – a moist and flavorful cake.
- Julie Goodwin’s bread & butter pudding – a classic dessert that’s always a hit.
- Julie Goodwin’s apricot cheesecake – a creamy and fruity treat.
- Julie Goodwin’s lemon blueberry cake – a refreshing and light dessert.
- Julie Goodwin’s apple crumble slice – a sweet and crunchy option.
- Julie Goodwin’s coffee cake with walnuts – a delicious and comforting treat.
