Skip the reservations. Instead, impress your date with one of these restaurant-worthy date night dinner ideas. Everything tastes better when it's made at home with love.
51 Date Night Dinner Ideas Made to Impress
Updated on Dec. 13, 2024
1/51
Steak Diane
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Sometimes, I add more mushrooms to this recipe when my son's eating dinner—he loves them, and they are just fantastic with the steak. — Carolyn Turner, Reno, Nevada
Nutrition Facts:
1 steak with 2 tablespoons sauce: 358 calories, 21g fat (11g saturated fat), 111mg cholesterol, 567mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 37g protein.
A high-quality steak that’s cooked to perfection might be one of the most romantic meals you can cook for someone. This dish gets even better with the flavorful mushroom cream sauce made from the pan drippings.
2/51
Pappardelle Bolognese
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
3 hours 50 min
Servings
12 servings (2-1/4 quarts)
From the Recipe Creator:
My robust ragu combines ground beef, sausage and chicken. Serve it over any type of pasta, or baked or fried polenta. It's even good on its own with a slice of hot buttered garlic bread. —Caroline Brody, Forest Hills, New York
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 461 calories, 35g fat (16g saturated fat), 112mg cholesterol, 712mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 21g protein.
Pappardelle noodles are folded into hearty, homemade bolognese sauce in this comforting classic. After you’ve added the wine, pour a few glasses to sip on as an aperitif. If you’re looking for an excuse to bake up a loaf of garlic bread, this is it.
3/51
Shrimp Scampi
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I could eat seafood several times a week, but my husband's not as big of a fan. One week, I found some beautiful big shrimp on sale and made this shrimp scampi. My husband tried it, and now we have this pasta in our regular dinner menu rotation! It goes together quickly, so I recommend prepping the ingredients before cooking the shrimp and sauce. —Donna Gribbins, Shelbyville, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 696 calories, 33g fat (13g saturated fat), 230mg cholesterol, 818mg sodium, 60g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 36g protein.
Those who prefer lighter bowls of pasta will appreciate this shrimp scampi recipe that’s tossed in a refreshing garlic, lemon, white wine and Parmesan sauce. To stay on the lighter side, serve big bowls of the pasta with a radicchio-spinach salad.
4/51
Pork Chops and Scalloped Potatoes
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
1 hour 55 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Mom always managed to put a delicious hearty meal on the table for us and for our farmhands. This all-in-one comforting pork chops recipe reminds me of home. —Bernice Morris, Marshfield, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 574 calories, 29g fat (11g saturated fat), 128mg cholesterol, 1015mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 40g protein.
In this impressive dish, pork chops are quickly seared, then baked on top of sliced potatoes, onions and homemade gravy. The pork’s drippings slowly infuse into the vegetables, and the homemade gravy makes each serving nice and saucy.
5/51
Marry Me Pasta
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
35 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
A recipe so outstanding, it might make your partner drop down on one knee! Save this one for a special occasion. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 955 calories, 65g fat (31g saturated fat), 210mg cholesterol, 694mg sodium, 57g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 6g fiber), 39g protein.
How often can you say you made a dinner worthy of a marriage proposal? Marry Me pasta might just elicit one, it’s that alluring.
6/51
Baked Lemon Chicken
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
50 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I found this baked lemon chicken recipe many years ago when my children were toddlers. I've changed it a little over the years to make it my own. Everyone in my family just loves it! —Aida Babbel, Bowen Island, British Columbia
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken breast half: 312 calories, 14g fat (4g saturated fat), 103mg cholesterol, 353mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 36g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1/2 starch.
Romantic date night-in meets easy chicken dinner with this lemon and herb baked chicken recipe. Fill out the plate with substantial sides like green beans amandine and steakhouse-worthy twice-baked potatoes.
7/51
Cacio e Pepe
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
20 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This classic pasta dish (literally, “cheese and pepper”) depends on quality ingredients to really shine. Make sure your cheese is finely grated—it’s best to buy a block and grate it yourself—and add it gradually in order to prevent clumping. —Lindsay Mattison, Hillsboro, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 334 calories, 14g fat (8g saturated fat), 34mg cholesterol, 180mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 9g protein.
If you’re nervous about cooking in front of your date, this cacio e pepe is easy as can be and comes together in almost no time at all. Take some of the attention off of yourself and have your partner grate the cheese and pour two glasses of pinot grigio.
8/51
Shrimp Risotto
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
50 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
A creamy, cheesy, classic Italian dish, this risotto adds shrimp's tenderness and umami flavor to the mix. Your tastebuds will meet plenty of complementary flavors of wine, garlic and shallot in this al dente rice. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 442 calories, 14g fat (7g saturated fat), 169mg cholesterol, 1247mg sodium, 46g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 26g protein.
Here, tender shrimp and bright parsley enliven a bowl of Parmesan risotto. I love when a recipe calls for wine. You never use even half the bottle, meaning there’s plenty leftover for a perfect wine pairing with dinner. Even cost-efficient white wines under $20 work beautifully here.
9/51
Surf and Turf
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
40 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
For an intimate dinner with close friends, serve this stunning dinner of tenderloin steaks and lobster tail. Your guests will think they are dining at a fine restaurant when you serve them this surf and turf dish. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 885 calories, 59g fat (29g saturated fat), 406mg cholesterol, 1348mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 78g protein.
Surf and turf is one of the most impressive restaurant-worthy meals you can make in your home’s kitchen. Take advantage of all the ways you can prep this meal ahead of time, so it’s seamless and effortless to finish when it’s time to serve.
10/51
Parmesan Risotto
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
45 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Risotto is a creamy Italian rice dish. In this version, the rice is briefly sauteed, then slowly cooked in wine and seasonings. Watch for that magic moment when the risotto transforms from just rice in liquid to creamy, tender deliciousness. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 260 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 728mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 6g protein.
Parmesan risotto, even in its most simplistic form, is a masterpiece in Italian cooking—and the perfect date night dinner. While it’s simmering, have your date stir as you add the liquid in batches. It’s the perfect, no-stress part of the recipe that allows for chit chat and easy entertaining.
11/51
Breaded Pork Chops
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
20 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
These traditional pork chops have a wonderful home-cooked flavor like the ones Mom used to make. The breading makes them crispy outside and tender and juicy inside. Why not treat your family to some breaded pork chops tonight? —Deborah Amrine, Grand Haven, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 pork chop: 405 calories, 22g fat (5g saturated fat), 115mg cholesterol, 233mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 36g protein.
We can’t get enough of these super easy breaded pork chops. Add Parmesan or cheddar to cheese things up, try a different breading like crushed crackers or cornflakes, and add seasonings that will complement the other components of your meal, like paprika, garlic power and dried herbs.
12/51
Pan-Seared Salmon
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This is one of my husband's favorite recipes. Salmon is a go-to for busy nights because it cooks so quickly and goes with so many different flavors. The creamy dill sauce with cucumber tastes light and fresh. —Angela Spengler, Tampa, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 salmon fillet with 1/4 cup sauce: 366 calories, 25g fat (4g saturated fat), 92mg cholesterol, 349mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0 fiber), 31g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 4 lean meat, 2-1/2 fat.
I honestly love the simple elegance of a beautiful piece of salmon. Pan-searing the fillets gives it a nice, crispy crust that’s incredibly flavorful. Serve it with a bright dill sauce to cut through the rich, umami taste.
13/51
Dutch Oven Pork Chops
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
2 hours
Servings
7 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
These herb-packed braised pork chops are perfect for entertaining because they come together quickly and bake for up to 2 hours. While visiting, my guests and I can enjoy the wonderful aroma. —Darci Truax, Billings, Montana
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 284 calories, 13g fat (4g saturated fat), 86mg cholesterol, 516mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 32g protein.
Seared, braised, coated in seasonings and served with the vegetables it’s baked with, you better believe this dish is rich with complex flavors. I can’t think of anything more complementary to these pork chops than a bed of creamy mashed potatoes.
14/51
Butter Steak
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
20 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This quick-and-easy skillet entree is definitely restaurant-quality and sure to become a staple at your house, too! —Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
4 ounces cooked beef with 2 teaspoons garlic butter: 316 calories, 20g fat (10g saturated fat), 124mg cholesterol, 337mg sodium, 0 carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 32g protein.
Those looking to recreate the elegance of a steakhouse right at home should start with this pan-seared steak. It’s served with butter that’s been enlivened with garlic, parsley and even a bit of soy sauce.
15/51
Lemon Risotto with Broccoli
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
55 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This dish is a creamy and rich party-special alternative to potatoes. —Judy Grebetz, Racine, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 201 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 460mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 7g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1/2 fat.
Lemon and broccoli lighten an otherwise filling and satisfying risotto that pairs perfectly with poultry or pork. If you can, spring for Parmigiano Reggiano—it makes all the difference.
16/51
Grilled Steaks with Mushroom Sauce
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
20 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Midweek days deserve something special. This steak entree with its savory sauce will fit the bill beautifully. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 353 calories, 19g fat (10g saturated fat), 99mg cholesterol, 447mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 40g protein.
If you’re in peak grilling season, you can still make a steakhouse-worthy meal right in your backyard. The accompanied mushroom sauce will have to be made inside, but it’s a cinch to put together.
17/51
Slow-Cooker Lemon Chicken
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
5 hours 35 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Garlic, oregano and lemon juice give spark to this memorable main dish. It's easy to fix—just brown the chicken in a skillet, then let the slow cooker do the work. I like to serve this dish to company. —Walter Powell, Wilmington, Delaware
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken breast half: 336 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 164mg cholesterol, 431mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 56g protein.
If you don’t have the time to stand over the oven, don’t! Pull out your slow cooker and prepare this succulent chicken the easy way. Add olives and capers just before serving to dress up the chicken.
18/51
Fish with Crabmeat Topping
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
These fillets are elegant enough for company but truly no trouble to make. Fish is abundant here in South Florida, and we like to get together with friends in the afternoon, so I often need to whip up a quick dinner when we get home. This special dish is one of my husband's favorites. —Mary Tuthill, Fort Myers Beach, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 fillet: 429 calories, 31g fat (6g saturated fat), 128mg cholesterol, 1063mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 33g protein.
Flakey whitefish gets the royal treatment with a lump crabmeat topping. Parmesan, almonds and paprika create a nutty and smoky taste in the super succulent fish and seafood duo.
19/51
Spinach Risotto
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
1 hour 10 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I had never tried mushroom spinach risotto until a trip to Paris a few years ago. Since then, I worked hard to create a recipe that tasted similar, and I think I finally succeeded with this version. It is very rich and indulgent! I often add cubed cooked chicken to make this a more satisfying and protein-packed main dish. —Sandi Ogden, Clinton, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 409 calories, 22g fat (12g saturated fat), 61mg cholesterol, 667mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 11g protein.
With a simple vegetable broth swap, this spinach and mushroom risotto is a flavorful main for vegetarians. Serve with roasted honeynut squash and a refreshing salad to bulk out the meal.
20/51
Roasted Pork Tenderloin
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
45 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
There are no complicated steps to follow when preparing this roasted medley of tender pork and veggies. Just season with herbs, then pop in the oven for less than an hour. —Diane Martin, Brown Deer, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 301 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 64mg cholesterol, 304mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 5g fiber), 26g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 1 vegetable.
Disguised as a romantic dinner, this roasted pork tenderloin is actually just an easy sheet pan meal. In about 30 minutes, you’ll be carving into a sage and rosemary-seasoned pork tenderloin that’s succulent and juicy, with carrots and onions served alongside.
21/51
Marinated Beef Tenderloin
Skill Level
Advanced
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My three grown children and grandkids enjoy this tempting beef tenderloin marinade. Leftovers make wonderful sandwiches with fresh bread and Dijon mustard. I sometimes substitute a marinated eye of round roast. —Connie Scheffer, Salina, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
7 ounces cooked beef: 610 calories, 40g fat (12g saturated fat), 169mg cholesterol, 2191mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 58g protein.
Prepare the garlic, thyme and hot sauce-infused marinade the night before and let the beef tenderloin soak up all those aromatics overnight. Bake it for an hour, and you’ll have the juiciest, most umami-rich cut of beef that will impress any date.
22/51
Grilled Pork Tenderloin
Skill Level
Advanced
Total Time
30 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
We do a lot of outdoor cooking during the summer months, and this grilled pork tenderloin recipe is one my entire family loves. —Betsy Carrington, Lawrenceburg, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts:
3 ounces cooked pork: 196 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 64mg cholesterol, 671mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 0 fiber), 24g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch.
A light char on this golden pork tenderloin is like a tiny flavor bomb with every bite. Opt for a barbecue marinade if you’re not up for the honey, teriyaki and soy sauce glaze.
23/51
Easy Crab Cakes
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Ready-to-go crabmeat makes these delicate patties easier than other crab cake recipes. You can also form the crab mixture into four thick patties instead of eight crab cakes. —Charlene Spelock, Apollo, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
2 crab cakes: 239 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 141mg cholesterol, 657mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 21g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 fat, 1 starch.
Crispy, golden crab cakes always feel incredibly sophisticated—perfect for date night. Take them to the next level with homemade tartar sauce (use yuzu mayonnaise for a bright kick) and serve with a bed of arugula salad and fresh lemon slices.
24/51
Seafood-Stuffed Shells
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
1 hour 10 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Inspired by my love of lasagna, pasta shells and seafood, I created this recipe that's easy to make but special enough to serve company. I serve it with garlic bread and a salad. —Katie P. Sloan, Charlotte, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
3 stuffed shells: 448 calories, 23g fat (11g saturated fat), 148mg cholesterol, 710mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 1g fiber), 29g protein.
Shrimp, crabmeat and mozzarella are stuffed into al dente pasta shells in this elegant version of stuffed shells. It’s baked with a mornay sauce on top, and breadcrumbs add a bit of texture.
25/51
Shrimp Alfredo
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Instead of buying a jar of sauce, make it from scratch for this easy shrimp Alfredo recipe. The garlic aroma will call your family to the table. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 788 calories, 51g fat (31g saturated fat), 317mg cholesterol, 573mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 38g protein.
This Italian restaurant staple is easy to make at home. Creamy Alfredo sauce is enlivened with lemon, garlic and parsley, and it’s then tossed with a tangle of fettuccine and perfectly sauteed shrimp.
26/51
Teriyaki Steak
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
35 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My brother-in-law, Stanley, gave me this recipe more than 30 years ago. He was an officer in the Army, and his fellow officers considered this flavorful steak a high-demand dish. —Dan Mayer, Olney, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 408 calories, 15g fat (7g saturated fat), 170mg cholesterol, 1572mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 2g fiber), 31g protein.
Served over fried rice, this teriyaki steak fuses a Chinese takeout staple with a steakhouse one for an ultra-flavorful and completely unexpected date night dinner idea. It’s great with a cold beer for a more casual night in, or a full-bodied red wine for a bit of sophistication.
27/51
Asparagus-Stuffed Chicken Breast
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
40 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
With its pretty presentation and sensational flavors, this rich asparagus stuffed chicken breast makes any meal feel special. —Louise Ambrose, Kingston, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed chicken breast half: 459 calories, 21g fat (9g saturated fat), 174mg cholesterol, 873mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 46g protein.
Now this is a date night stunner. Pounded chicken is rolled up with asparagus, provolone, ham and sage, then coated in breadcrumbs, fried lightly and baked until the chicken is succulent and juicy and the cheese is melted. Serve over rice, mashed potatoes or creamy polenta.
28/51
Eggplant Rollatini
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
1 hour 30 min
Servings
5 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
These authentic Italian eggplant roll-ups can take some time to prepare, but the end result is restaurant-quality. Your family will request this recipe time and again. —Nancy Sousley, Lafayette, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
3 roll-ups: 726 calories, 48g fat (15g saturated fat), 181mg cholesterol, 3182mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 7g fiber), 35g protein.
This is the perfect vegetarian dish for date night. My partner and I bought eggplant from the farmers market and whipped up a pan of this eggplant rollatini. We couldn’t believe how good it was, and we didn’t miss the meat at all.
29/51
Roasted Cornish Game Hen
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
1 hour 30 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
If you're looking for an elegant dinner for two, we suggest these delightful Cornish game hens. As a bonus, the crisp, tasty potatoes cook right alongside the meat. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 984 calories, 68g fat (22g saturated fat), 381mg cholesterol, 1239mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 4g fiber), 64g protein.
Roasting a Cornish game hen is just as easy as roasting a whole chicken. Instead of the familiar flavor of chicken, you’ll indulge in the rich, delicate and petite Cornish game hen. Each of you gets your own hen on a plate with roasted vegetables filling in the few gaps. It’s a date night masterpiece you won’t soon forget.
30/51
Mediterranean Chicken
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Everyone I know loves this special chicken recipe. I changed a few things to make it healthier, but it tastes just as good. — Kara Zilis, Oak Forest, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 417 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 70mg cholesterol, 386mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 6g fiber), 31g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 2 vegetable, 1 fat.
Those looking for date night dinner ideas that aren’t so butter-, cream- and cheese-filled will love this recipe that follows the Mediterranean diet. There’s only a little bit of feta for tang and richness, but you can omit it to make the recipe dairy-free. Whole foods are the focus here, but it doesn’t take away from the fact that this is still quite a luxurious recipe.
31/51
Homemade Ragu Sauce
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
2 hours 25 min
Servings
10 servings (7-1/2 cups)
From the Recipe Creator:
My family loves homemade spaghetti sauce and this one is a big hit. I always make sure to serve this ragu sauce recipe with plenty of garlic bread. —Kate Gaul, Dubuque, IA
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 308 calories, 19g fat (9g saturated fat), 70mg cholesterol, 800mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 3g fiber), 18g protein.
This hearty, homemade ragu will make your kitchen smell like you’ve stepped into an Italian restaurant. While it’s common to serve ragu with thin, flat, wide noodles, you can really serve it over a variety of carb-y bases, like different types of pasta shapes, gnocchi, polenta or thick pieces of crusty bread.
32/51
Chicken Cordon Bleu
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
55 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This chicken cordon bleu is a great, fast dinner for two. It's easy to fix and makes an elegant entree. — Betty Palmesino, Phoenix, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 441 calories, 23g fat (13g saturated fat), 157mg cholesterol, 792mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 46g protein.
Chicken cordon bleu is an elegant French restaurant classic. Chicken, ham and Gruyere are rolled up, coated in bread crumbs and baked until golden and crispy. It’s really fun to make with your date, building and rolling up each chicken.
33/51
Stuffed Shells
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
45 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
More cheese, please! You'll get your fill from saucy jumbo pasta shells loaded with four kinds—mozzarella, Asiago, ricotta and cottage cheese. Do the prep work, and then freeze according to the recipe directions to have a ready-to-bake meal for a future busy night. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
3 stuffed shells: 376 calories, 14g fat (9g saturated fat), 49mg cholesterol, 959mg sodium, 39g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 4g fiber), 25g protein.
The last time I made stuffed shells, my partner and I had a laughing fit over how bad he was at filling them. It was such a fun and memorable dish to make together, and the taste was completely awesome—even the wonky-looking ones.
34/51
Beef Tenderloin Roast
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I love the simplicity of this easy beef tenderloin recipe. Olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper—just add the tenderloin and pop it in the oven. In an hour or so you’ve got an impressive main dish to feed a crowd. This leaves you with more time to visit with family and less time fussing in the kitchen. —Mary Kandell, Huron, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
5 ounces cooked beef: 294 calories, 13g fat (5g saturated fat), 82mg cholesterol, 394mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 40g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
If roasting a beef tenderloin seems intimidating, we have good news: This recipe might be one of the easiest in the bunch. While it’s baking, you can whip up the sides, or pour your date another glass of wine while you wait.
35/51
Slow-Cooker Short Ribs
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
6 hours 45 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
These slow-cooker short ribs are an easy alternative to traditionally braised short ribs—you don't need to pay any attention to them once you get them in the slow cooker. (That makes it my favorite beef short ribs recipe!) —Rebekah Beyer, Sabetha, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 251 calories, 13g fat (5g saturated fat), 55mg cholesterol, 402mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 20g protein.
Any time I’m looking to impress with a sophisticated recipe, I’ll make slow-cooker short ribs. It’s so easy to get these exactly right, but they taste like something from a Michelin-starred restaurant. There’s no need to baby them either; the slow cooker does all the hard work.
36/51
Easy Coq au Vin
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I love being able to fix a fancy gourmet dish in such a short amount of time and still have it turn out so delicious. To reduce fat, use chicken tenderloin pieces or skinless chicken breasts. This recipe is really fabulous served with rice. —Judy VanCoetsem, Cortland, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 255 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 80mg cholesterol, 648mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 26g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
Coq au vin translates to rooster in wine, so you can bet this dinner is a wine lover’s dream. You’ll use 1 cup of red wine for cooking, which means you have a lot left over to serve you and your date.
37/51
Sheet-Pan Chicken and Veggies
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This sheet-pan chicken and veggies meal tastes as if it took hours of hands-on time to put together, but the simple ingredients can be prepped in mere minutes. The rosemary gives it a rich flavor, and the meat juices cook the veggies to perfection. It’s unbelievably easy! —Sherri Melotik, Oak Creek, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken thigh with 1 cup vegetables: 357 calories, 14g fat (3g saturated fat), 87mg cholesterol, 597mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 4g fiber), 28g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
With all the other chaos in your life, sometimes the date night dinner needs to be something easy. This sheet pan chicken and veggies only needs 15 minutes of prep time, so it’s a fairly easy one, but rosemary, chicken thighs and red potatoes make the dinner feel expensive and elegant.
38/51
Chicken Dijon
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This chicken dish is extremely fast and economical. It makes a nice sauce that works well over brown rice or wide noodles. If you want extra sauce for leftovers, double the recipe. —Irene Boffo, Fountain Hills, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken breast half with 3 tablespoons sauce: 295 calories, 11g fat (5g saturated fat), 114mg cholesterol, 621mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 0 fiber), 36g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1 fat, 1/2 starch.
Whenever you’re looking for a way to make chicken feel a little more high-end, add Dijon. This zippy condiment is full of complexity and pairs beautifully with poultry, especially chicken. Here, the chicken is served with a Dijon cream sauce and fresh herbs. Add a salad or Parmesan-roasted asparagus as a sophisticated side.
39/51
Chicken Tikka Masala
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
4 hours 40 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This Indian-style chicken tikka masala recipe has flavors that keep me coming back for more—a simple dish spiced with garam masala, cumin and gingerroot that’s simply amazing. —Jaclyn Bell, Logan, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups chicken mixture (calculated without rice): 381 calories, 19g fat (9g saturated fat), 118mg cholesterol, 864mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 33g protein.
Slowly simmer chicken in a spice-enriched velvety cream sauce, and you have a warming, comforting chicken tikka masala for a date night in. This is the perfect dish to make if you two love ordering takeout, but want to try your hand at your favorite dish.
40/51
Slow-Cooker Butter Chicken
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
3 hours 10 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I spent several years in Malaysia eating a variety of Middle Eastern and Southeast Asian food. This was one of my favorite dishes! There are many versions of butter chicken, but this is similar to the Middle Eastern version I had. —Shannon Copley, Upper Arlington, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 242 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 102mg cholesterol, 407mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 35g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1 fat.
The slow cooker does all the work with this Indian takeout favorite. Serve with garlic naan and samosas, and we bet this will become a go-to staple in your house, date night or not.
41/51
Shrimp and Scallop Pasta
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
35 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I created this tempting seafood pasta for my wife. It’s a terrific meal served with crusty sourdough. If you don't like spice, skip the red pepper flakes. —George Levinthal, Goleta, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 733 calories, 35g fat (13g saturated fat), 210mg cholesterol, 1263mg sodium, 56g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 47g protein.
Shrimp and scallops are cooked in shallots, butter and white wine, then tossed with angel hair pasta and tender vegetables in this date night dinner winner.
42/51
Instant Pot Beef Tips
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
35 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
These beef tips remind me of a childhood favorite. I cook them with mushrooms and serve them over brown rice, noodles or mashed potatoes. —Amy Lents, Grand Forks, North Dakota
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 235 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 46mg cholesterol, 837mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 27g protein.
If date night has a bit of a tight budget this time around, you can still serve an impressive steak dinner with one of the cheaper cuts of steaks: beef tips. Since this is a tougher cut of meat, it needs to be cooked for a long time (or, in this case, a shorter amount of time thanks to the instant pot) so it can break down and get nice and tender.
43/51
Marry Me Chicken
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
With a name like Marry Me Chicken, you know people can't help falling head-over-heels for this dish. It's all about the comforting sun-dried tomato cream sauce, loaded with herbs, fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese. —Nancy Mock, Southbridge, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 313 calories, 19g fat (9g saturated fat), 100mg cholesterol, 465mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 28g protein.
Is there a more perfect dish for date night? Even if you’re already married, Marry Me chicken is so delicious that it may make him drop down on one knee all over again. Serve it over pasta or with thick slices of crusty sourdough bread.
44/51
Chicken Tzatziki
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I like to make classic chicken recipes for my family but the real fun is trying a fresh new twist. —Krisen Heigl, Staten Island, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken breast half with 1/3 cup sauce: 482 calories, 27g fat (7g saturated fat), 133mg cholesterol, 737mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 41g protein.
Breaded and lightly fried until crispy and golden brown, chicken tzatziki is like Mediterranean-style chicken schnitzel. The tzatziki sauce, cucumbers and feta cut through some of the richness with tangy and salty flavors that will make you want seconds.
45/51
Shrimp Fra Diavolo
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This quick shrimp fra diavolo is spicy, garlicky, saucy and loaded with delicious shrimp. Plus, with the addition of spinach, you’re also getting a serving of veggies. When you need a perfect low-fat weeknight meal that is easy to pull together, this is it. You can substitute arugula or kale for the spinach if you'd like. —Julie Peterson, Crofton, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 235 calories, 9g fat (1g saturated fat), 138mg cholesterol, 727mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 4g fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 vegetable, 1-1/2 fat.
Fans of spice will love this classic Italian shrimp dish. Serve over pasta or crusty bread (it’ll cut some of the kick, just in case it’s too spicy for you), and feel free to swap the shrimp for something a bit more luxurious like crab, lobster or clams.
46/51
Instant Pot Sesame Chicken
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
20 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Your family will love the flavorful sauce that coats this chicken, and you'll love how quick and easy it is for a weeknight dinner! If you serve gluten-free meals, use tamari instead of soy sauce. — Karen Kelly, Germantown, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 311 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 94mg cholesterol, 1004mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (17g sugars, 0 fiber), 37g protein.
Twenty minutes, start to finish, is all it takes to make this Instant Pot sesame chicken. This date night dinner recipe is perfect if you have to be out the door ASAP to make it to your movie’s show time.
47/51
Pasta Bake with Feta
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
45 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
There's a reason this baked feta pasta recipe went viral on TikTok! It's simple to throw together and incredibly creamy and delicious. —Sarah Tramonte, Culinary Producer
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 373 calories, 16g fat (6g saturated fat), 25mg cholesterol, 507mg sodium, 46g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 12g protein.
This meal went viral in 2020, and for good reason. It’s incredibly easy, creative and undoubtedly delicious. Feta, olive oil and cherry tomatoes get baked in a pan, then cooked pasta is stirred right in. The pasta immediately gets coated in the melty feta and bursted cherry tomatoes, and it tastes absolutely gourmet.
48/51
Pork Bowl
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
40 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My family loves pork tenderloin as well as Thai food, so I decided to combine the two in this easy pressure-cooker dish. It is very simple to put together and is perfect for a weeknight. —Debbie Glasscock, Conway, Arkansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 384 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 86mg cholesterol, 1664mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (33g sugars, 3g fiber), 34g protein.
Don’t be intimidated by the ingredient list; they all work together to make quite possibly the most flavorful dinner you’ll ever have for date night. While the pressure cooker does its thing, cook the rice, julienne the green onions and break out the chili sauce. Your date will be very impressed with this one.
49/51
Lemon-Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
The Cheesecake Factory has an extensive menu, but I always seem to order their delicious fresh and citrusy Lemon-Garlic Shrimp with pasta. I'd enjoyed it enough times that I was confident I reproduce it to share with friends and family. I think I hit it spot on! When I have fresh basil from the garden I use that instead of parsley.
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 387 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 146mg cholesterol, 239mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 26g protein.
Lemon and garlic are not afterthought ingredients here. If you like bright, zippy flavors, then you’ll love the use of lemon zest, lemon juice, lemon-pepper seasoning and three whole cloves of garlic in this shrimp and linguine pasta.
50/51
Pineapple Pork Chops
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
We try to eat a variety of foods, and although we like pork, it really has very little flavor. One night I was fixing some beautiful boneless pork loin chops and decided to add a fruity sauce. The chops ended up being moist and juicy, and the sauce was delicious. This dinner, perfect served over rice, takes less than 30 minutes. It is wonderful for weeknight meals but nice enough for company too. —Donna Gribbins, Shelbyville, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
1 pork chop with 2 tablespoons sauce: 407 calories, 15g fat (4g saturated fat), 68mg cholesterol, 914mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (33g sugars, 1g fiber), 29g protein.
It’s hard to get creative with pork chops, but the unexpected trio of pineapple, soy sauce and Dijon make an incredible sweet-yet-salty glaze to top seared pork chops. Serve over a bed of rice and scatter green onions on top for a gorgeous pop of green.
51/51
Creamy Garlic Chicken
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
50 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Garlic lovers will savor every bite of this skillet chicken breast dish. If there are leftovers, note that the flavor intensifies as it sits. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken breast half with 1/3 cup sauce: 589 calories, 41g fat (21g saturated fat), 186mg cholesterol, 435mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 41g protein.
One pot recipes make even date night dinners possible on short notice. This creamy garlic chicken maintains a sense of luxury. We’ll walk you through turning the roux into mornay sauce, too, so you can learn a new cooking technique while you’re at it.
Date Night Dinner Ideas FAQ
What are some good desserts to serve after date night dinner?
The best desserts to serve after a date night dinner are your partner’s favorites. If they’re a chocolate lover, bake up a beautiful chocolate cake, a tray of double-chocolate brownies or luxurious chocolate lava cakes. If they love lemon desserts or ice cream recipes, surprise them with one of those. If your partners loves any and all desserts equally, scroll through some of these Valentine’s Day desserts for inspiration.
What are the most romantic date night dinner ideas?
The most romantic date night dinner ideas are the most luxurious ones. Think: seafood, steak or anything drowned in a cream sauce. Try our steak Diane recipe (slide 1), shrimp risotto recipe (slide 8), fish with crabmeat topping (slide 19) or our seafood-stuffed shells (slide 24).
What are some easy date night dinner ideas?
There are lots of easy date night dinner ideas scattered throughout this list. Check out our cacio e pepe (slide 7), Parmesan risotto (slide 10), breaded pork chops (slide 11), Mediterranean chicken (slide 30), stuffed shells (slide 33), sheet pan chicken and veggies (slide 37), shrimp fra diavolo (slide 45) and Instant Pot sesame chicken (slide 46).
