20 Dinner Recipes for Two

While I’m planning a delightful dinner for two, whether it’s with a close friend or a beloved family member, I love to whip up smaller portions. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy quality time together while being mindful of our resources. When you give importance to individuals’ tastes and preferences, it helps to make a more intimate and enjoyable relationship.
Cooking Special Dinners Perfect for Pairing
These 20 dinner recipes for two are designed to turn a simple night into something extraordinary without requiring hours of preparation. Each recipe focuses on flavor, ease, and elegance, ensuring you can enjoy more. Whether you’re savoring a quiet weekday dinner or marking a special occasion, this collection will help you create meals worth sharing.
1. Lemon Herb Oven Roasted Chicken Thighs
One of my favorite meals to cook is lemon herb chicken thighs with potatoes and leeks. I marinate the chicken in lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, parsley, thyme, rosemary, and paprika. After searing the chicken for a golden crust, I add baby potatoes and leeks to absorb the flavors. Baking results in a hearty, zesty meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight.

Photo Credit: lemonblossoms
2. Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
Garlic shrimp scampi is a quick and delicious dish. I sauté thawed, wild-caught shrimp in a mixture of butter and olive oil. Then, I add garlic, white wine, and lemon juice to enhance the flavor. I toss everything with pasta and fresh parsley, and I serve it alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Photo Credit: cafedelites
3. Honey Soy Glazed Salmon
Honey soy salmon is an incredibly quick and delicious dish that anyone can make. I marinate the salmon in a bold mixture of honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, then sear it in a hot pan until the glaze caramelizes perfectly. I always serve it with rice and roasted vegetables, and you can have this entire meal ready in just 30 minutes!

Photo Credit: simplehomeedit
4. Seared Scallops with Asparagus
Seared scallops with asparagus make me feel like a gourmet chef at home. The key is to pat the scallops dry before cooking them in a hot skillet for a couple of minutes on each side for a golden-brown crust. I then sauté fresh asparagus in butter, garlic, and a squeeze of lemon juice. The final plate looks as good as it tastes!

Photo Credit: howtofeedaloon
5. Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa
Fish tacos are one of my favorite light meals. I season white fish fillets with chili powder, cumin, and lime juice, then grill or pan-sear them. I make a quick mango salsa with diced mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Assembling the tacos with warm tortillas, fish, salsa, and a drizzle of hot sauce or sour cream is the best part. They’re always a hit!

Photo Credit: biteswithbri
6. Cajun Shrimp and Grits

Photo Credit: allwaysdelicious
Cajun shrimp and grits remind me of my Southern roots. I make creamy cheese grits, then sauté shrimp with Cajun seasoning in butter. I whip up a quick sauce with garlic and chicken stock in the same pan. Topping the grits with the shrimp and sauce, garnished with fresh parsley, creates a comforting dish.
7. Garlic Butter Chicken Vegetable Skillet

Photo Credit: crazyforcrust
Garlic butter chicken with veggies is my go-to meal for a quick and wholesome dinner. I season chicken breasts with paprika, salt, and pepper, then sear them until they are golden. I sauté whatever vegetables I have on hand, such as zucchini, broccoli, and carrots, and finish the dish with garlic butter for a satisfying meal.
8. Buffalo Chicken Tacos

Photo Credit: iamhomesteader
Buffalo chicken tacos add a spicy twist to taco night. I coat chicken strips in seasoned breadcrumbs and fry them until crispy, then toss them in a buffalo sauce made from hot sauce and melted butter. I layer the crispy chicken in warm tortillas with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and ranch dressing. They can get a bit messy, but it’s worth it!
9. Chicken Piccata

Photo Credit: themodernproper
Chicken piccata is an elegant recipe that comes together quickly. I dredge thin chicken cutlets in flour and pan-fry them until golden and crispy. Then, I make a tangy sauce with lemon juice, chicken stock, capers, and butter, simmering the chicken in it. I serve it with pasta or roasted vegetables—the lemon-caper flavor is delightful!
10. Beef Stroganoff

Photo Credit: allrecipes
Beef stroganoff is my idea of the ultimate comfort food. I brown strips of beef in a skillet, then cook onions, garlic, and mushrooms until they’re soft and fragrant. After adding beef stock, Dijon mustard, and sour cream, I let the sauce simmer until it’s rich and creamy. Tossing it all with egg noodles makes it a meal that’s as hearty as it is delicious.
11. Sirloin Steak with Garlic Butter
Making steak with garlic butter at home is a special treat. I season a quality sirloin steak with salt and pepper and sear it in a hot skillet. While it rests, I melt butter with garlic and fresh herbs, then pour it over the steak before serving. A side of roasted potatoes or vegetables rounds out the meal, making it truly enjoyable.
12. Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
For a quick and satisfying meal, I marinate thin strips of beef in soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch. After stir-frying the beef in a hot wok, I cook the broccoli until tender-crisp and combine them with a splash of oyster sauce. Served over steamed rice, beef, and broccoli stir-fry is my go-to dish when I need something simple and flavorful.
13. Shepherd’s Pie
Shepherd’s pie is my favorite when I’m in the mood for something cozy and comforting. I start by cooking ground beef with onions, carrots, and peas, then add a little tomato paste and beef stock for a rich filling. After spreading it into a baking dish, I top it with creamy mashed potatoes and bake until golden brown on top. It’s hearty, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser.
14. Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are a colorful and satisfying dinner option. I hollow out vibrant red, yellow, or green peppers and fill them with a mix of cooked ground beef, rice, diced tomatoes, and cheese. After baking them until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted, they make for a perfectly portioned, delicious meal.
15. Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry is my go-to when I want something light and healthy. I press tofu to remove excess moisture, then cube and sauté it until crispy. Tossing it with a rainbow of veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas in a soy-ginger sauce makes for a quick, colorful meal that never disappoints.
16. Eggplant Parmesan
Eggplant Parmesan is a vegetarian favorite in my house. I slice eggplant, bread it, and bake it until crispy, then layer it with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. After baking until bubbly and golden, it’s ready to serve with a side of spaghetti or a simple salad. It’s comfort food that happens to be meatless.
17. Butternut Squash Risotto
Butternut squash risotto is my idea of a perfect fall dinner. I roast diced butternut squash until caramelized, then stir it into creamy risotto made with Arborio rice, white wine, and Parmesan cheese. The sweetness of the squash pairs beautifully with the savory risotto, making it a dish I look forward to every year.
18. Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Stuffed portobello mushrooms are an excellent choice when I crave something hearty yet meatless fill large mushroom caps with a mixture of fresh spinach, creamy ricotta cheese, crunchy breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan, I bake them in a preheated oven until they are golden and tender. They are elegant enough for a dinner party but simple enough for a weeknight meal.
19. Chicken Tikka Masala
Chicken tikka masala is an exceptional dish that showcases bold international flavors in my cooking. I marinate pieces of chicken in yogurt and a blend of spices, then cook them in a rich, creamy tomato-based curry. Indulging in this meal alongside fragrant basmati rice or warm naan creates a truly comforting experience that’s packed with vibrant flavors.
20. Pad Thai
Pad Thai is my go-to when I’m craving something with a little bit of everything—sweet, savory, tangy, and nutty. I sauté rice noodles with a mix of tamarind paste, fish sauce, lime juice, and a touch of sugar, then toss in shrimp, eggs, bean sprouts, and crushed peanuts. A sprinkle of cilantro and a lime wedge on the side make it perfect.
Cooking dinner for two is more than just preparing a meal. It’s about sharing time, creating memories, and savoring delicious flavors together. Whether you’re planning a special celebration or simply enjoying a quiet evening, these recipes will help you make any night an extraordinary one with a delightful experience