55 Easy Dinner Ideas for Two: Recipes Designed to Impress

dinner-for-two

Mel Hull, Heather Matley

We’ve all been there: It’s 6 p.m. on a weeknight, and you’re staring at your fridge (and perhaps your partner), unsure where to begin. Should you scrape together leftovers to make the same chicken and rice bowl you’ve been cooking for years, or is it an instant mac and cheese night?

When it comes to figuring out dinner as a couple, it takes two to tango — but what do you do when you're unsure what to cook?

Below, we'll review some easy dinner ideas for two that can be made with leftovers or fresh ingredients.

Table of contents:

Easy chicken dinner recipes for two 

Whip up a delicious meal for two using just a few ingredients and chicken breasts. Here are nine easy chicken recipes for two.

1. Garlic Parmesan chicken with veggies

A close up of a delicious looking garlic parmesan chicken with veggies

Cooking time: 30 minutes

What’s better than cooking a tasty dinner in under 30 minutes? This garlic Parmesan chicken recipe delivers rich flavor with minimal effort. Use freshly chopped garlic or garlic powder for a faster option. Prepare this dinner for your partner, friend or family member and showcase your culinary skills.

Cooking tip: Pat the chicken completely dry with paper towels before seasoning it so the Parmesan creates a crisp crust.

2. Tuscan chicken pasta 

tuscan chicken pasta

Cooking time: 50 minutes 

Taste the flavors of Italy in the comfort of your own home with this Tuscan chicken pasta recipe. It’s hard to believe this simple dish is so delicious, but the creamy garlic and tomato sauce is hard to beat. You can adjust this recipe to serve two or make a bit extra — you'll certainly want seconds. 

Cooking tip: For deeper flavor, sear the chicken in oil from a jar of oil-packed sundried tomatoes.

3. Chicken and vegetable rice bowls 

chicken and vegetable rice bowls

Cooking time: 30 minutes 

Chicken and rice bowls are an easy, flavorful meal for two. This chicken dish packs a punch, thanks to a mix of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, rosemary, lemon zest, onion powder, garlic and basil. After grilling your spiced chicken and vegetables, all you have to do is serve them over your choice of rice. Add avocado with fresh tomatoes to complete your meal.

Cooking tip: Fluff your rice with a fork and a splash of rice vinegar to keep the grains separate and bright.

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 4. Chicken piccata

Close up of delicious chicken piccata

Cooking time: 40 minutes

Looking to impress a friend or partner with your chef skills? The lemon, butter and white wine sauce in chicken piccata is a fan favorite, and it's surprisingly easy to make. Pair your Italian-styled chicken with your choice of pasta and roasted vegetables. Don’t forget to garnish your dish with fresh parsley and capers for extra flavor.

Cooking tip: Dredge the chicken in flour just seconds before it hits the pan to avoid a gummy coating.

5. Creamy chicken and broccoli pasta

creamy chicken and broccoli pasta

Cooking time: 35 minutes

Take pasta night to the next level with this pasta recipe featuring a delectable, creamy Parmesan sauce. When you pair the mouthwatering sauce with garlic, chicken, broccoli and your choice of pasta (we recommend penne), you’ll want to eat an extra portion.

Cooking tip: Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Add it to the pasta when adding the sauce, as the starch will help the cream sauce cling to the noodles.

6. Chettinad chicken curry with coconut milk 

chettinad chicken curry with coconut milk

Cooking time: 50 minutes 

You’ll love this single-pan recipe for its easy cleanup. A fragrant spice blend creates a rich, indulgent Chettinad chicken curry you'll never forget. Coconut milk balances out the heat and adds creaminess to this dish. Pair with rice or naan for the complete experience.

Cooking tip: Toast whole spices in a dry pan for one minute before cooking to release more flavor.

7. Chinese bok choy chicken stir-fry 

chinese bok choy chicken stir fry

Cooking time: 30 minutes 

Are you and your dining partner fans of Asian cuisine? A quick and simple bok choy chicken stir-fry packs a powerful punch of flavor. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to turn up the heat.

Cooking tip: Sear the chicken in small batches; crowding the pan prevents even browning.

8. "Marry Me" chicken 

marry me chicken

Cooking time: 40 minutes 

When it comes to dinner ideas for two, you can never go wrong with “marry me” chicken. It is rumored that if you make this chicken recipe for someone, they will instantly fall in love with you.The decadent, creamy sauce involves a little heat, but not too much for those sensitive to spice. 

Cooking tip: Deglaze the pan with a splash of dry white wine or chicken stock to scrape up the browned bits for a richer sauce.

9. No-peek chicken 

no peek chicken

Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes 

Forget it was your turn to make dinner? Don't worry — this no-peek chicken recipe requires only five ingredients but will have you and your partner drooling for more. For this no-fuss meal, combine all ingredients in a baking dish, cover it with aluminum foil and then cook for 90 minutes. Seriously, that’s it. Just don't peek before time is up (hence the name)!

Cooking tip: Use heavy-duty foil and seal it tightly to trap steam, which "braises" the chicken until it's fall-apart tender.

Healthy dinner ideas for two

You can whip up a tasty meal while still hitting your health goals. Check out these healthy dinner ideas for two or take a gander at some of our low-calorie meal ideas for more inspiration.

10. Lemon and herb chicken with roasted red potatoes 

lemon and herb chicken with roasted red potatoes

Cooking time: 35 minutes

The blend of lemon and herbs pairs well with chicken breast. This dish tastes even better since it requires little to no time or effort. Don’t forget to squeeze extra lemon juice afterward to complete your dish. Pair with roasted red potatoes for a well-rounded meal.

Cooking tip: Cut potatoes into ½-inch cubes so they roast at the same rate as the chicken.

11. Air-fryer chicken Parmesan with broccoli

Close up of Air fryer Parmesan chicken with broccoli

Cooking time: 30 minutes 

One of the easiest ways to flex your chef skills is by using an air fryer. Pop in a chicken breast coated in Parmesan to make a delicious bite to eat. The air fryer and Parmesan crust will make the chicken extra crispy. Pair your healthy Parmesan chicken with air-fried or sautéed broccoli. Your guest will devour this delicious meal in a matter of minutes.

Cooking tip: Spray the breaded chicken with olive oil mid-way through cooking to get a deep golden color.

12. Buffalo chicken lettuce wraps 

buffalo chicken lettuce wraps

Cooking time: 30 minutes 

When you want a quick and simple lunch or dinner, these buffalo chicken lettuce wraps should be the first option to pop into your mind.  Once you cook your chicken to perfection and toss it in buffalo sauce, assemble your wraps with large lettuce leaves and blue cheese dressing. One bite and the bold flavors will take over.

Cooking tip: Use Bibb or butter lettuce instead of romaine for sturdier cups.

13. Quinoa tofu veggie bowl 

quinoa tofu veggie bowl

Cooking time: 30 minutes 

A beautiful quinoa tofu veggie bowl can be prepared in just half an hour. This nutrient-packed plant-based entrée is a triple threat: healthy, delicious and satisfying. You’ll want to revisit this recipe time and time again, and you can keep things interesting by adding your favorite seasonal veggies or swapping quinoa for couscous or brown rice.

Cooking tip: Freeze your tofu and then thaw it before cooking to create a meaty texture that absorbs more sauce.

14. Ground beef stuffed peppers 

ground beef stuffed peppers

Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes 

Looking for an easy gourmet meal when you’re in charge of dinner? Ground beef stuffed peppers to the rescue! Add your cooked ground beef and favorite veggies to the center of your peppers, then drizzle with olive oil before baking them. 

Cooking tip: For a vegetarian version, use crumbled tofu or cooked lentils instead of meat.

15. Honey garlic salmon

Close up of a delectible garlic roasted salmon

Cooking time: 30 minutes 

Garlic and salmon go together like two peas in a pod. This honey garlic salmon recipe is healthy yet packed with flavor. With only a handful of ingredients, you will create the most delicious baked salmon. Serve it with whole-wheat couscous or mixed vegetables for the perfect low-calorie meal. 

Cooking tip: Line your baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and lightly brush with oil to make cleanup easier.

16. Taco bowls 

taco bowls

Cooking time: 40 minutes

Think taco night, but the salad version. You can still enjoy the traditional flavors of tacos without the tortillas. Simply put all your ingredients in a bowl instead of soft or hard shells. We recommend using ground turkey and omitting the rice for your taco bowls — just don’t forget the avocado. This healthy dinner idea for two is also a great weeknight dinner idea for the whole family. 

Cooking tip: Brown the ground turkey with taco seasoning first, then let it simmer for a few minutes to help the flavors fully develop.

17. Crunchy maple-baked sweet potatoes 

crunchy maple baked sweet potatoes

Cooking time: 1 hour and 10 minutes

If you have a little extra time on your hands, try this decadent, pumped-up baked sweet potato recipe. For extra-crispy sweet potatoes, place them directly on a wire rack above a baking sheet. Serve hot and top with real maple syrup.

Cooking tip: Pierce the sweet potatoes several times with a fork before baking to let steam escape and help the skins crisp evenly.

18. Baked miso cod 

baked miso cod

Cooking time: 30 minutes

This elevated cod dish features a savory miso-butter and panko topping that bakes into a crunchy, flavorful crust. The umami flavor of the miso pairs well with garlic and ginger for a rich taste that still feels light and balanced.

Cooking tip: Press the miso-butter and breadcrumb topping firmly onto the fish so it sticks and crisps evenly as it bakes.

19. Tuna poke bowls

tuna poke bowls

Cooking time: 30 minutes 

Tuna poke bowls are a fresh, customizable dinner that comes together quickly. Sushi-grade tuna is paired with rice and crisp vegetables, then finished with a simple soy-based sauce. Add toppings like cucumber, edamame or avocado — whatever suits your tastes. 

Cooking tip: Keep the tuna chilled until just before serving to maintain its texture and clean flavor.

20. Eggplant Parmesan stacks 

eggplant parmesan stacks

Cooking time: 1 hour 

In need of a satisfying vegetarian dinner? These eggplant Parmesan stacks combine sliced eggplant, rich marinara, melted mozzarella and Parmesan for a savory Italian-inspired meal. Pair it with a simple salad or crusty bread to complete the plate. 

Cooking tip: Salt the eggplant slices and let them rest before baking to draw out excess moisture and prevent sogginess.

Easy date night recipes

Whether it's date night or a special anniversary, show off your chef skills by whipping up one of these simple yet impressive romantic dinner recipes.

21. Garlic butter scallops with polenta 

garlic butter scallops with polenta

Cooking time: 25 minutes 

For easy dinner ideas for two, scallops are a great option you might not already have in your rotation. This recipe combines seared scallops in garlic butter with creamy polenta for a quick, flavorful dinner. Serve with steamed or sautéed vegetables.

Cooking tip: Pat the scallops dry before searing to get a golden, crispy crust.

22. Mushroom risotto 

mushroom risotto

Cooking time: 35 minutes 

Mushroom risotto is a savory rice dish that’s easy to make at home with simple ingredients like Arborio rice, mushrooms and Parmesan. Stirring slowly as you add warm broth creates a rich, velvety texture that tastes delectable. 

Cooking tip: Keep your broth warm on the stove so the rice absorbs it evenly and cooks consistently.

23. Air-fryer flank steak pinwheels

air fryer flank steak pinwheels

Cooking time: 35 minutes 

An air fryer is ideal when you want to whip up quick dinner ideas for two. For this easy and flavorful dinner, thinly sliced flank steak is rolled with your favorite fillings, then cooked until juicy on the inside and perfectly seared on the outside. 

Cooking tip: Use an oven-to-air-fryer conversion chart to get the timing of your dish just right. 

24. Creamy smoked salmon pasta 

creamy smoked salmon pasta

Cooking time: 20 minutes

If you're looking for healthy salmon recipes, consider this creamy smoked salmon pasta. Garlic, cream and bright lemon come together for a well-balanced dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Cooking tip: Add the smoked salmon at the end g and toss gently so it warms through.

25. Shrimp scampi pasta 

shrimp scampi pasta

Cooking time: 30 minutes

Take your date night dinner to the next level with this shrimp scampi pasta recipe. In just half an hour, you’ll create a dish that will have your partner asking for seconds. Enjoy restaurant-level deliciousness during your cozy night in. 

Cooking tip: Cook the shrimp just until pink and firm to keep them juicy and succulent.

26. Pan-seared scallops 

pan seared scallops

Cooking time: 15 minutes

This recipe for scrumptious pan-seared scallops is perfect for impatient chefs, as it can be prepared in merely 15 minutes! With a delicate texture and subtle flavors, this dish is a great romantic dinner idea for two at home. 

Cooking tip: Make sure the pan is hot before adding the scallops to get a good sear without sticking.

27. Caprese steak 

caprese steak

Cooking time: 30 minutes 

Transform your kitchen into a piece of Italy and impress your partner along the way by serving Caprese steak on your next date night. The slices of tomato and mozzarella complement seasoned steak so well. Serve your Italian dish with your choice of pasta and asparagus.

Cooking tip: Let the steak rest before adding the toppings so the juices stay locked in.

28. Herb lamb chops 

herb lamb chops

Cooking time: 1 hour

Lamb chops may look overly complicated, but this recipe is fairly simple. The heavenly marinade of olive oil, rosemary, garlic and thyme  tenderizes the meat and infuses it with flavor. Serve your herb lamb chops with garlic green beans and quinoa.

Cooking tip: Bring lamb chops to room temperature before cooking to help them cook more evenly.

29. Heart-shaped homemade pizza 

heart shaped homemade pizza

Cooking time: 1 hour 20 minutes

There is nothing more romantic than making heart-shaped homemade pizza with your loved one. You can use store-bought pizza dough or make your own to impress your significant other. Add your favorite toppings like turkey pepperoni and olives, then bake until golden brown. This meal is also a classic Valentine’s Day dinner idea.

Cooking tip: If making from scratch, let it rest at room temperature before shaping to prevent shrinking.

30. Baked feta pasta

Close up of a baked feta pasta dinner for two in a white porcelain container

Cooking time: 45 minutes 

The viral TikTok baked feta pasta is simple yet delicious. What’s better than a melted block of cheese with roasted tomatoes? We took the recipe one step further with the addition of shallots for a game-changing dish. Once your feta and tomatoes are done roasting, add cooked pasta to the mixture. One bite and your partner will be impressed with your creative dinner idea.

Cooking tip: Stir the feta and vegetables thoroughly after baking so the cheese melts evenly into a smooth sauce.

Easy seafood dinners

Seafood dinners are quick, flavorful and perfect for weeknights. These recipes feature everything from shrimp and salmon to scallops and cod. 

31. Honey sriracha shrimp

honey sriracha shrimp

Cooking time: 25 minutes

This honey sriracha shrimp recipe strikes the perfect balance between sweet and spicy. The shrimp cooks in just a few minutes, then gets tossed in a sticky honey‑sriracha sauce for an easy meal. Serve over rice or noodles with steamed vegetables for a complete dinner.

Cooking tip: Toss the shrimp in the sauce right before serving to keep them juicy and prevent the sauce from burning.

32. Crispy baked catfish 

crispy baked catfish

Cooking time: 30 minutes

Crispy baked catfish makes a satisfying seafood dinner with a crunchy, seasoned coating and tender fish inside — all without frying. A simple mix of cornmeal and spices gives the fillets a crisp crust, while a squeeze of lemon brightens the flavor.

Cooking tip: Pat the catfish dry before breading so the coating sticks better and crisps evenly while baking.

33. Mahi mahi tacos 

close up photo of mahi mahi tacos

Cooking time: 30 minutes 

These tacos wrap flaky fish in warm tortillas with cabbage, lime and a creamy sauce. The firm texture of mahi mahi holds up well to grilling or searing, making it a good choice for quick, delicious dinners for two.

Cooking tip: Double up your tortillas so they don't tear. 

Beef, lamb and pork recipes for two

For yummy high-protein meals, check out these easy dinner ideas for two featuring flavorful meats. 

34. Broccoli beef stir-fry

broccoli beef stir fry

Cooking time: 30 minutes 

Broccoli beef stir-fry combines tender beef with crisp broccoli in a savory sauce. This one-pan meal comes together quickly, making it ideal for weeknights. Serve over rice or noodles to soak up all the sauce.

Cooking tip: Slice the beef thinly across the grain so it cooks quickly and stays tender.

35. Pressure-cooked beef stroganoff 

pressure cooked beef stroganoff

Cooking time: 1 hour and 20 minutes 

A pressure cooker is your best friend when you're in need of an easy dinner for two. You can use it to turn tender beef and mushrooms into a rich, creamy sauce that coats every strand of egg noodles. This dish is also a great pick when you want comfort food at home.

Cooking tip: Let the pressure release naturally for a few minutes so the sauce stays smooth.

36. Tender Korean beef 

close up photo of a plate of tender Korean beef

Cooking time: 45 minutes 

Thinly sliced beef is marinated in a savory-sweet sauce, then cooked for an easy and satisfying dinner. Be sure to marinate the beef for at least 20 minutes (or up to an hour if you have time) to let the flavors fully develop before cooking. 

Cooking tip: Cook the beef in a single layer over high heat so it browns quickly and doesn’t steam.

37. Lamb kofta wraps

lamb kofta wraps

Cooking time: 30 minutes 

This flavorful, authentic Turkish recipe won't disappoint. Seasoned ground lamb meatballs are served in warm flatbreads with lettuce, tomatoes and a tangy sauce. 

Cooking tip: Press the meat mixture firmly together so the kofta holds its shape while cooking.

38. Sheet-pan nachos

sheet pan nachos

Cooking time: 30 minutes 

Sheet-pan nachos layer tortilla chips with seasoned beef, plenty of cheese and your favorite toppings for a delicious dinner you can make at home. Everything bakes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

Cooking tip: Spread the chips in an even layer so each one gets covered with toppings and cooks evenly.

39. Pork tenderloin with apples

pork tenderloin with apples

Cooking time: 50 minutes

This dish combines savory, succulent pork with sweet apples for a balanced dinner that’s easier to make than you'd think. The pork roasts until tender while the apples soften and soak up flavor from the pan. Serve with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes to round out the meal.

Cooking tip: Let the cooked pork rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.

40. Mexican pork carnitas 

mexican pork carnitas

Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes

If you're craving Mexican food, whip out your slow cooker for authentic pork carnitas. Finish the pork in the oven to get golden edges and a nice crisp. Serve it in tortillas, in rice bowls or with simple sides like rice and beans. 

Cooking tip: After shredding the pork, spread it on a baking sheet and broil briefly so the edges get crispy and flavorful.

41. Creamy sausage gnocchi 

creamy sausage gnocchi

Cooking time: 55 minutes 

When it comes to dinner for two ideas, you can swap in gnocchi to level up your standard pasta dish. Savory sausage and  a rich sauce come together easily on the stovetop. 

Cooking tip: Brown the sausage first to build flavor and season the sauce.

42. Sheet-pan steak and potatoes

sheet pan steak and potatoes

Cooking time: 40 minutes

One pan is all you need to make this steak and potatoes recipe. Bake your steak and red potatoes until golden brown, then broil to your desired doneness. Finish with Parmesan, chopped parsley and caramelized onions. 

Cooking tip: Use a steak cooking chart to achieve the perfect sear.

43. Grilled pork souvlaki skewers 

Grilled pork souvlaki skewers

Cooking time: 2 hours and 50 minutes

Making pork skewers is a fun activity to do with your loved one. Thread small chunks of pork and cut-up vegetables onto skewers. After you grill your skewers, dip them in your favorite sauce for extra flavor.

Cooking tip: Soak wooden skewers in water before grilling to prevent them from burning.

44. Air-fryer meatballs 

air fryer meatballs

Cooking time: 25 minutes

Meatballs are a classic dish, and a little help from an air fryer makes them even easier to prepare. While these air-fryer meatballs call for breadcrumbs, you can opt for almond flour as a gluten-free option. Coat your meatballs in tomato sauce, then split into two portions and enjoy this healthy meal for two.

Cooking tip: Space the meatballs apart in the air-fryer basket so hot air can circulate and brown them evenly.

Vegetarian dinner ideas for two

When it comes to recipes for two people, you don’t always need to include meat. There are a ton of delicious dinner ideas for two vegetarians. Put these vegetarian dinner ideas to the taste test and incorporate them into your weekly vegetarian meal prep

45. Vegetarian black bean quesadillas

vegetarian black bean quesadillas

Cooking time: 30 minutes

These vegetarian quesadillas combine roasted bell peppers, sweet potatoes, seasoned black beans and melted cheese for a filling, meatless dinner. Serve with salsa, sour cream or avocado.

Cooking tip: Sprinkle the sweet potatoes with cayenne pepper to add some heat to your quesadillas. 

46. Red lentil dahl 

red lentil dahl

Cooking time: 1 hour

Red lentil dahl is a simple Indian-inspired dish where red lentils simmer with spices until soft and creamy. The lentils pack protein into this plant-based dinner. Serve with basmati or jasmine rice and warm flatbread. 

Cooking tip: Rinse the lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch and help them break down evenly.

47. Halloumi and roasted veggie salad 

halloumi and roasted veggie salad

Cooking time: 40 minutes

Halloumi is a semi-hard, brined cheese from Cyprus, traditionally made from sheep's and goat's milk. It works amazingly well in this hearty veggie salad that can be served as a main dish. Serve it warm or at room temperature. 

Cooking tip: Pat the halloumi dry before cooking so it browns instead of steaming.

48. Chickpea shakshuka 

chickpea shakshuka with utensils

Cooking time: 30 minutes

This Middle Eastern-inspired dish is both vegetarian and gluten-free. It's a one-pan meal featuring simmered tomatoes, spices and tender chickpeas. It’s filling, flavorful and goes well on top of toasted bread.

Cooking tip: Simmer the sauce for a few minutes before adding the chickpeas so the spices have time to bloom and deepen in flavor.

49. Mediterranean quinoa bowls 

Mediterranean quinoa bowls

Cooking time: 45 minutes

Veggie quinoa bowls make for a tasty and easy meal. Vegetables like cucumber, cherry tomatoes and bell peppers come together in this colorful dish. Combine with chickpeas and kalamata olives to add a Mediterranean twist.

Cooking tip: Let the quinoa cool slightly before assembling so the vegetables stay crisp.

50. Tomato and mozzarella flatbread 

tomato and mozzarella flatbread

Cooking time: 2 hours and 15 minutes

For this meat-free meal, you can use either store-bought dough or this flatbread recipe to make your own. Then, top it with thin rounds of mozzarella, tomatoes and fresh basil. Cook your flatbread until the cheese is melted.

Cooking tip: Use low-moisture mozzarella to prevent excess liquid so the flatbread gets crisp.

51. Kung pao cauliflower 

kung pao cauliflower

Cooking time: 16 minutes 

Kung Pao cauliflower offers the same delicious flavors of the classic dish in this vegetarian version. Combine all ingredients in a skillet, and cook until the cauliflower softens. Add your Kung Pao cauliflower and stir-fried vegetables to a bowl, then garnish with scallions. 

Cooking tip: Pat your cauliflower dry before cooking to help it crisp.

52. Vegetable pasta bake 

vegetable pasta bake

Cooking time: 1 hour

If baked ziti included vegetables, then the end result would be this cheesy vegetable pasta bake. While casseroles are typically made for larger groups, you can still enjoy two portions now and save the rest for later. 

Cooking tip: Slightly undercook the pasta so it doesn’t get mushy while baking.

53. Lemon and Parmesan asparagus risotto 

lemon and parmesan asparagus risotto

Cooking time: 1 hour

Want to create a restaurant-quality dish that’s as elegant as it is satisfying? The rich flavor and creamy texture of this Parmesan asparagus risotto will make it a hit in any season. For extra flavor, roast the asparagus before adding it to the risotto.

Cooking tip: Add the asparagus near the end so it stays tender but crisp.

54. Vegetarian enchiladas 

vegetarian enchiladas

Cooking time: 45 minutes

Dig into this comforting dish for a memorable dinner for two. This vegetarian enchilada recipe is flexible and customizable, allowing you to experiment with all your favorite sauces, fillings and toppings.

Cooking tip: Warm the tortillas before filling them so they don’t crack when rolled.

55. Crispy sesame tofu

crispy sesame tofu

Cooking time: 25 minutes

For an easy dinner at home, try this quick tofu recipe. Firm tofu transforms into crunchy, flavor-packed pieces that get tossed in an East Asian-inspired sesame sauce.  Serve over rice or with vegetables.

Cooking tip: Prior to cooking, press the tofu well to remove excess moisture so it browns more evenly.

Serving up dinner ideas for two

Now that you are more familiar with dinner ideas for two, it’s time to put your cooking skills to the test. Remember, you don’t have to overcomplicate these dishes. Try adding your personal touch, whether you're trying the ground beef stuffed peppers or seafood dishes. You can portion out these meals for two, or make a little extra to indulge in a midnight snack or dinner for the next day.

When shopping for your dinner ingredients, leave the hard work to the Instacart team. Choose Instacart same-day order pickup, or get everything delivered to your front door — save time and effort for the actual prepping.

Dinner for two FAQ

Figuring out what to make for dinner doesn't need to be a hassle. Find answers to your questions about cooking dinner for two below.

What should I make for dinner when I'm feeling lazy?

Casseroles and high-protein dishes are good options when you’re feeling lazy. Start off with your choice of protein (chicken, tofu, etc.), and pair it with veggies and a carb. A pasta bake or air-fryer Parmesan chicken, for example, requires little to no effort.

What should I serve on date night?

Meat and pasta aren’t the only things you can serve on date night. You can make a vegetarian heart-shaped pizza, simple scallops or pork skewers for a fun and delicious activity.

What can I cook for two people?

Whether you're cooking for you and your partner, a roommate or a friend, look no further than our comprehensive list of dinner ideas for two! If you’re still unsure what to make, use leftovers in your fridge that can be evenly portioned and elevated with a single sauce. Our favorites include taco or teriyaki bowls (a protein, rice or beans and vegetables) or a sheet-pan meal of potatoes, vegetables and a protein.

What should I make my significant other for dinner?

If you’re in search of some romantic dinner ideas for two at home, "Marry Me" chicken is the perfect dish to make. The mouthwatering sauce will have your significant other begging for leftovers.

dinner-for-two

Course:

Dinner

Cuisine:

American

Difficulty:

Easy

55 Easy Dinner Ideas for Two: Recipes Designed to Impress

Recipe byMel Hull, Heather Matley

Follow one of the recipes below to enjoy easy dinner ideas for two.

Servings

2 servings

Prep Time

10 min

Cook Time

20 min

Total Time

30 min

Mel Hull

Mel Hull

Author

Mel is a seasoned content strategist and food writer with over a decade of experience helping brands tell compelling stories. Inspired by her hometown of Houston, TX, she brings her love of bold flavors and Southern hospitality to the table. In the kitchen, she loves baking (especially banana bread!) and experimenting with Tex-Mex dishes.

Heather Matley

Heather Matley

Editor

Heather Matley is an editor at Instacart whose passion for food and cooking has inspired her work on everything from grocery guides to recipe development. With over eight years of experience in editing, content creation, and search engine optimization, she strives to empower readers with the most effective tools, guides, and ideas to transform their home cooking.

Cutting tomatoes on a cutting board after grocery delivery.