A romantic dinner for two can be an elegant gourmet meal or a simple and delicious recipe, as long as it comes from the heart. With your loved one and one of these romantic dinner ideas, your next date night will be the most magical. There are dishes for every taste and skill set.
For date night, serve with fruity red wine sangria or a colorful mocktail, followed by an adorable heart-shaped Valentine's dessert.
Jump to:
- 1. Pan Seared Scallops
- 2. Pan Seared Filet Mignon
- 3. Spaghetti Bolognese
- 4. Grilled Lamb Chops
- 5. Broiled Ribeye Steak
- 6. Blackened Cod
- 7. Baked Flounder
- 8. Shrimp Scampi
- 9. Broiled Lobster Tail
- 10. Crab Risotto
- 11. Margherita Sheet Pan Pizza
- 12. Creamy Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken
- 13. Salmon With Dill Sauce
- 14. Grilled Chicken Fettuccine
- 15. Pan Seared Duck Breast
- 16. Sirloin Steak Tips
- 17. Marry Me Chicken
- 18. Seared Ahi Tuna Steaks
- 19. Pan Seared Salmon with Crispy Skin
- 20. Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon
- 21. Easy Beef Stroganoff
- 22. Hibachi Steak and Shrimp
- 23. Duck with Orange Sauce
- 24. Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
- 25. Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef
- 26. Italian Sausage Bake
- 27. Quiche Florentine
- 28. Caprese Flatbread
- 29. Tofu Stir-Fry
- 30. Chicken Sausage with Apples, Onions, and Potatoes
- 31. Cast Iron Pork Chops
- 💭 Pro Tips For Preparing Dinner For Two
- What Are Some Dessert Ideas For A Romantic Dinner For Two?
- How Can I Make A Special Three-Course Dinner For My Partner?
- Any Tips For Planning A Successful Dinner Date At Home?
- 📖 Recipe Card
- Dinner For Two: 31+ Amazing Recipes To Make A Special Occasion Memorable!
- 💬 Reviews
A collection of my favorite tasty & impressive dinners that are perfect to share with the one you love on special occasions and date nights. Your job is to choose the one your date will enjoy most!
A nice restaurant is not always necessary when you want an intimate date night. In fact, spending time and effort preparing a dish is arguably more romantic because it comes from the heart!
Whether you are a rockstar in the kitchen or still finding your footing, I have plenty of impressive and romantic recipes for cooks of any skill set.
1. Pan Seared Scallops
Perfectly pan-seared scallops are delicious, plus extremely quick and easy to make. If you can get that perfect golden-brown sear on the outside, the hardest part is done!
Scallops are light enough to serve them with carb-heavy sides like fondant potatoes or parmesan risotto, and they go with pretty much everything!
2. Pan Seared Filet Mignon
A filet mignon is a gourmet cut of steak, so cook it perfectly, and you’ll knock this out of the park! Pair it with a dry red wine like Malbec and a few candles, and you’ll have a picture-perfect romantic dinner for two.
3. Spaghetti Bolognese
Italian food is generally romantic (think the Lady and the Tramp spaghetti scene), and a nice spaghetti Bolognese is easy and satisfying.
If you are a novice chef, this is a great opportunity to surprise your date with a homemade meal while taking minimal risk.
There's no need to worry about sides, but a little garlic bread never hurts. Follow my guide to cooking spaghetti for perfect al dente noodles!
4. Grilled Lamb Chops
Lamb is usually a special treat, so an elegant grilled lamb chop is sure to impress. These grill up in about 20 minutes, and my aromatic lamb dry rub gives the chops the most amazing flavor!
For what to serve with lamb chops, you can choose steakhouse sides or keep it light and serve it with a Caesar salad and homemade dressing.
5. Broiled Ribeye Steak
This list had to have a couple of steak options, and a perfectly cooked ribeye is always a great choice. By broiling this ribeye, you can have a restaurant-quality steak in minutes.
Pick a thick-cut steak and serve it with some asparagus, roasted potatoes, or any of my popular ribeye steak side dishes!
6. Blackened Cod
If seafood is more your thing, blackened cod is an easy choice. Cod is a mild-tasting fish, so the seasoning really has room to shine. Use a good Cajun seasoning, and pair it with a few light sides to save room for dessert!
It only takes 13 minutes from start to finish, so you don’t have to spend all evening in the kitchen. Check out my favorite side dishes for cod here!
7. Baked Flounder
Baked flounder is another fish recipe that doesn't taste 'fishy.' The crispy Parmesan and Panko crust gives it a great crunch that will go well with any sauces you want.
This recipe can be made in roughly 20 minutes and will go with any savory or light side dishes. A nice white wine will complete the meal perfectly!
8. Shrimp Scampi
Butter, lemon, and white wine make up the delicious scampi sauce and give the pasta a bright, citrus flavor. It’s a quick and easy shrimp recipe, but with some parsley as a garnish and nice dinnerware, it will look like it took a lot of effort.
Peel and de-vein your shrimp beforehand, and this recipe only takes 15 minutes. Set some candles and enjoy your romantic scampi dinner.
>>>See All Of My Recipes Here!<<<
9. Broiled Lobster Tail
A lobster tail is the universal sign of a 'fancy' dinner. Surprisingly enough, they cook quickly and taste great with minimal effort.
Serve it with some fondant potatoes and a vegetable side dish of your choice, and you have a beautiful spread that only takes minutes. Don't forget the drawn butter.
10. Crab Risotto
Creamy, indulgent crab risotto is a great all-inclusive dish. You don’t necessarily need sides. I would focus more on dessert, as the risotto is heavy.
You will use a bit of wine to make the risotto, so you might as well share the rest of the bottle. If your date loves crab, this option will be a home run.
11. Margherita Sheet Pan Pizza
Hear me out. Pizza may not seem romantic, but it definitely can be. For a lovely date night idea, drink wine while making a pizza together.
This recipe is fairly simple, and you can spend quality time talking and enjoying each other’s company. Sip your wine while it bakes, then share the fruits of your labor.
12. Creamy Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken
Not only is this creamy Parmesan garlic mushroom chicken easy to make, but it is also delicious! Serve it over pasta, potatoes, or rice for a complete meal.
This warm dish is perfect for chilly evenings. The sauce is rich and comforting, so you and your date will savor every bite.
13. Salmon With Dill Sauce
Dill has such an amazing, unique flavor, and it’s known for pairing perfectly with salmon. While salmon may be delicious, the creamy dill sauce takes it to the next level.
It's an elegant salmon recipe that's perfect for two!
14. Grilled Chicken Fettuccine
If your date is not a seafood fan, a nice grilled chicken fettuccine alfredo is a wonderful option. It’s a safe bet as long as your date eats chicken breast.
Creamy alfredo sauce on fettuccine with perfectly grilled sliced chicken breast is savory and comforting. It doesn’t have to be expensive meat to make it date night-worthy.
15. Pan Seared Duck Breast
Last but certainly not least, pan-seared duck breast is an elegant and easy dish for a special date. Because duck is so fatty and flavorful, this recipe only requires the duck breasts and salt & pepper.
If your date has never tried duck, they are in for a treat. Duck and Pinot Noir are classically paired and will create a date night to remember.
16. Sirloin Steak Tips
These tender bites of sirloin steak are buttery and pan-seared to perfection! Serve them over long-grain white rice or garlic mashed potatoes for an easy steak dinner.
17. Marry Me Chicken
The name says it all: this saucy sundried tomato chicken breast is so delicious it will make your date want to get down on one knee.
18. Seared Ahi Tuna Steaks
One bite of these pan-seared ahi tuna steaks will impress any seafood lover. They have a crispy sesame seed crust and are only cooked enough to sear the outside, so you get all of the fresh tuna flavor.
19. Pan Seared Salmon with Crispy Skin
The skin of this pan-seared salmon is the best part because it cooks up crispy, golden, and delicious. For side dishes, check out what to serve with salmon.
20. Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon
A tender and juicy filet mignon steak is a splurge in and of itself, but wrap it in bacon, and you have a Michelin-star-worthy meal.
21. Easy Beef Stroganoff
Beef stroganoff is a classic comfort food recipe that is always a treat to indulge in. This easy version is suitable for anyone, regardless of your skill set in the kitchen.
22. Hibachi Steak and Shrimp
Impress your date with your hibachi skills. Steak and shrimp is a premium hibachi recipe at the restaurants, and you should save the best for date night.
23. Duck with Orange Sauce
Most of us don't enjoy duck regularly, so a well-executed duck dinner is a treat. This tender and flavorful duck breast is covered in a delectable orange sauce that adds elegance and makes the meal feel truly special!
24. Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
Rich and creamy cheese sauce like your favorite mac and cheese recipe, but over tender, perfectly cooked cauliflower. It's light yet indulgent, and of course, there's bacon!
25. Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef
These zucchini boats are filled with seasoned ground beef, veggies, marinara sauce, and cheese, then baked until tender. It's low-carb, so you can add side dishes or save that extra room for dessert.
>>>See All Of My Recipes Here!<<<
26. Italian Sausage Bake
Pasta, meatballs, veggies, and marinara sauce in one easy and delicious casserole. It's a one-pan Italian dinner that everyone will enjoy.
27. Quiche Florentine
A spinach Florentine quiche is a great way to show off your baking skills, and the leftovers can go in the fridge or freezer for easy breakfasts and lunches. See my ultimate guide on how to make the perfect quiche.
28. Caprese Flatbread
A caprese flatbread with fresh basil, tomatoes, and mozzarella is light and refreshing but won't leave you hungry, especially if you plan on dessert! Plus, it's an easy enough recipe you can make it together.
29. Tofu Stir-Fry
A quick tofu stir fry is a flavor-packed vegetarian entree anyone can make. It's completely customizable veggie-wise and is best served over rice or noodles.
My homemade stir-fry sauce is simple and tastes way better than anything from a jar or bottle.
30. Chicken Sausage with Apples, Onions, and Potatoes
Sheet pan dinners are perfect for beginners because the sides and main dish are cooked together. My chicken sausage sheet pan with apples, onions, and potatoes is perfect for fall date nights!
31. Cast Iron Pork Chops
Typically, pork chop recipes are easy and delicious without being overly filling. Bust out your cast-iron skillet to get a gorgeous crispy brown sear.
A light salad or a side of baked cinnamon apples is all you need. For more side dish suggestions, see what to serve with pork chops.
💭 Pro Tips For Preparing Dinner For Two
Going in with a plan and all the necessary ingredients will help keep your date night dinner stress-free for both of you. Here are more of the best, useful tips for cooking a fabulous dinner for two:
- Plan the Menu: Choose a menu you and your partner will enjoy. Consider the time and effort required for each dish. Special occasions like anniversaries and Valentine's Day call for desserts!
- Prep Ahead: Prep ingredients to save time during your date night. You can slice veggies, marinate meats, and measure seasonings the night before.
- Cook Together: Trying out a new recipe or cuisine together can be an exciting experience and a fun and romantic date night activity! Choose a manageable recipe based on your skill set that fits within the time window you will be together.
- Set the Ambiance: Create a cozy atmosphere with dim lighting, candles, or soft music. This is a great time to bring out the good china!
- Keep it Simple: You don't need to create a gourmet meal to impress your date. Simple, well-prepared dishes are just as enjoyable!
What Are Some Dessert Ideas For A Romantic Dinner For Two?
ConteTreat your partner to chocolate-covered strawberries, a slice of red velvet cake, or some easy cherry blossom cookies! If they have a favorite dessert, use the search bar above to see if we have a version on the site!
How Can I Make A Special Three-Course Dinner For My Partner?
Begin with a light garden or Caesar salad, followed by any main course from this list. Finish with a delightful dessert that can be as simple as a mug cake for two or as complex as you feel comfortable with!
Any Tips For Planning A Successful Dinner Date At Home?
Choose recipes you will both enjoy and do your grocery shopping and any necessary prep in advance. Set a cozy ambiance with candles and music. Consider sharing the cooking experience for a memorable and enjoyable dinner date at home!
With so many options, you can make romantic dinners for two a recurring event. Try cooking together and decide what your favorites are, then come back and let me know in the comments!
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📖 Recipe Card
Dinner For Two: 31+ Amazing Recipes To Make A Special Occasion Memorable!
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- ½ teaspoon each, salt & pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin)
- 8 oz mushrooms (cleaned and sliced, white button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms)
Creamy Parmesan Garlic Sauce
- ¼ cup butter (½ stick or 4 tablespoons)
- 1 teaspoon garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or whipping cream, or milk, or half & half)
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 cup baby spinach (washed and chopped)
(Note: 2x or 3x only changes the ingredient list)
Instructions
- Pat your 1½ lbs chicken breasts dry and trim any excess fat if needed. Season both sides of the chicken with ½ teaspoon each, salt & pepper.
- Heat a large skillet with the 2 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat until the oil begins to shimmer. Pan fry the seasoned chicken breasts to brown both sides until cooked and the chicken has an internal temperature of 165°F (64°C). Remove the chicken from your skillet when done and transfer to a plate. Set aside.
- Add the sliced 8 oz mushrooms and saute until browned and tender. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Creamy Parmesan Garlic Sauce
- Reduce the heat to medium and melt the ¼ cup butter in your skillet. Add the minced 1 teaspoon garlic and saute until tender and fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour and mix into the melted butter and garlic, stir frequently and cook the paste for about 2-3 minutes.
- Slowly whisk in portions of the ½ cup chicken broth and 1 cup heavy cream until the sauce is smooth, then stir in the ½ cup Parmesan cheese, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper.
- Add the chopped 1 cup baby spinach and stir into the sauce, then allow the sauce to come to a simmer. Once the sauce thickens and the spinach is wilted, return the chicken breasts and sauteed mushrooms back to your skillet.
- Stir to combine and heat to your satisfaction. Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or potatoes.
Notes
- When cleaning mushrooms, it’s best to wipe them clean with a damp paper towel. Mushrooms are like little sponges, so if you run them under water they’ll absorb the water and be harder to brown!
- After adding the flour to the butter, keep an eye on the roux! You don’t want it or the garlic to burn – you just want to cook for a couple of minutes to get the raw flour taste out.
- If the sauce thickens too much, you can add up to another cup to the sauce!
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