15+ Recipes for Two People: Delicious Meals for Cozy Nights In

Cooking for two can be a delightful experience, allowing you to share meals without worrying about leftovers. Finding the right recipes can make dinner time special and enjoyable for both of you. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or just want to enjoy a cozy meal together, there are plenty of options to explore.

You can try various dishes, from pasta to stir-fries, that cater to smaller portions. This approach not only saves you time in the kitchen but also helps you create meals that are perfect for a romantic night in or a casual dinner at home.

1) Chicken Fajitas

Chicken fajitas are quick and fun to make. They are perfect for a cozy dinner for two. You will enjoy the mix of spices and fresh veggies.

Start by cooking the chicken with some onions and bell peppers. A dash of lime juice adds a nice flavor. You can serve them in warm tortillas.

These fajitas are not only tasty but also easy to prepare. You only need one skillet for cooking, which makes cleanup easier.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 medium onion
• 1 lime
• 2 bell peppers (any color)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortillas for serving

Cooking Instructions

1. Slice chicken breasts into strips.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat (350°F / 180°C).
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add sliced onion and bell peppers. Cook for another 5 minutes.
5. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture. Season with chili powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve in warm tortillas. Enjoy your meal!

2) Garlic Chicken Thighs

Garlic chicken thighs are a delicious and easy dish that you can whip up in no time. The crispy garlic crust adds great flavor, while the juicy meat keeps the meal satisfying. This recipe uses just a few ingredients, making it perfect for a quick dinner.

You’ll need boneless, skinless chicken thighs, garlic, butter, and some spices. This dish pairs well with rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
3. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the minced garlic.
4. Sear the chicken thighs in the skillet for about 4 minutes on each side.
5. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15 minutes.
6. Enjoy your garlic chicken thighs hot!

3) Pesto Chicken Pasta

Pesto Chicken Pasta is a quick and tasty dish perfect for two. You can prepare it in about 30 minutes, making it great for busy weeknights. The creamy pesto sauce pairs well with tender chicken and pasta.

You will enjoy the rich flavors from the pesto and the freshness of sun-dried tomatoes. This meal is not just easy; it looks great on the plate too.

Ingredients

• 8 oz (225 g) bow tie pasta
• 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
• 1/2 cup pesto sauce
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions in salted water. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, combine the cooked chicken and sun-dried tomatoes.
3. Add the pesto sauce and mix well.
4. Stir in the cooked pasta and heat through.
5. Top with Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Serve warm.

4) Chocolate Crepes

Chocolate crepes are a delightful treat you can share with someone special. They are soft, thin pancakes filled with rich chocolate, perfect for dessert or brunch.

For a recipe that serves two, you’ll need simple ingredients. You can fill these crepes with fruit, whipped cream, or even more chocolate to make them extra special.

Ingredients

• 2 eggs
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup water
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• 6 teaspoons white sugar
• ⅓ tablespoon butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix the eggs, milk, water, flour, sugar, melted butter, and cocoa powder until smooth.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C).
3. Pour in a small amount of batter, tilting the pan to spread it evenly.
4. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the edges lift and are slightly brown.
5. Flip and cook the other side for another minute.
6. Repeat with the remaining batter, stacking finished crepes on a plate. Enjoy!

5) Microwave Sticky Toffee Pudding

Microwave sticky toffee pudding is a quick and delicious dessert perfect for two people. This recipe lets you enjoy a warm treat without much hassle.

You will need just a few ingredients to get started. The best part is that it cooks in just minutes!

Ingredients

• 1 cup chopped dates
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cooking Instructions

1. In a microwavable mug, combine chopped dates, water, and baking soda.
2. Microwave for about 50 seconds until the dates soften.
3. Stir in sugar, flour, salt, butter, and vanilla extract.
4. Microwave again for 1 to 1.5 minutes until cooked through.
5. Enjoy warm, straight from the mug or turned out onto a plate.

6) Beef and Noodles

Beef and noodles is a comforting dish that’s perfect for two. It combines tender beef with delicious egg noodles. This meal is easy to prepare and tastes great.

Start with lean stewing beef, cut into small cubes. Sauté it in a bit of oil until browned. Add onions and cook until soft.

Next, mix in beef stock and your choice of seasonings. Let it simmer for a while to let the flavors blend. Cook the egg noodles separately and stir them in just before serving.

This dish is not only easy to make but also filling and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces lean boneless stewing beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• 2 cups beef stock
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 4 ounces egg noodles

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat the oil in a pot over medium heat (about 160°C).
2. Add the beef and brown it on all sides.
3. Add the onion and cook until soft.
4. Pour in the beef stock and add thyme. Simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions.
6. Mix the noodles into the beef mixture and serve hot.

7) Quick Caprese Salad and Grilled Chicken

This dish is perfect for two people and easy to whip up. Start with juicy grilled chicken seasoned with salt, pepper, and a splash of balsamic vinegar for flavor.

Next, make a quick Caprese salad. Combine fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil leaves in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.

Serve the grilled chicken alongside the salad for a beautiful and tasty meal. You’ll enjoy the balance of flavors and the bright colors on your plate.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella, sliced
• 1 large tomato, sliced
• Fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and balsamic vinegar.
3. Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, until cooked through.
4. While chicken cooks, mix mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil in a bowl.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and toss gently.
6. Slice the grilled chicken and serve with the Caprese salad.

8) Mini Chicken Casserole

Mini chicken casserole is a cozy dish perfect for two. You can make it quickly using simple ingredients and enjoy a warm meal together.

Start with cooked chicken. Use leftover rotisserie chicken or poach your own. Mix it with cream of chicken soup, frozen mixed vegetables, and egg noodles.

Pour the mixture into a greased small casserole dish. Top it with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for a nice crunch. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until golden.

This casserole is tasty and filling. It’s a great way to enjoy a classic dish in smaller portions.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked chicken
• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
• 1 cup egg noodles
• 1/2 cup crushed crackers (or breadcrumbs)
• 1 tablespoon butter

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the chicken, soup, vegetables, and noodles.
3. Pour the mixture into a greased small casserole dish.
4. Top with crushed crackers and drizzle butter on top.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.

9) Savory Pork Chops for Two

Savory pork chops are a great choice for a cozy meal for two. You can make them tender and juicy by cooking them properly. A simple seasoning can bring out their natural flavors.

Start by searing the pork chops in a hot skillet with some oil. This gives them a nice brown crust. After that, you can add onions or even a creamy gravy for extra taste.

You can bake the chops for about 20 minutes at 375°F (190°C) to finish cooking. This ensures they’re cooked through and remain juicy.

Ingredients

• 2 pork loin chops (3/4 inch thick)
• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• 1 medium onion, sliced (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup of cream or gravy (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat the canola oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper.
3. Sear the pork chops for 4-5 minutes on each side until browned.
4. Add sliced onions if desired and cook for another 2 minutes.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
6. Bake for 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Serve warm with gravy if using.

10) Slow Cooker Taco Soup

Slow cooker taco soup is a great meal for two. It’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. You can enjoy it with your favorite toppings like cheese and sour cream.

To make this soup, you need ground beef, beans, corn, and taco seasoning. The slow cooker does all the work while you relax.

Gather your ingredients and let the slow cooker create a warm, hearty dish that’s perfect for any day.

Ingredients

• 1/2 pound ground beef
• 1 can black beans, undrained
• 1 can corn, undrained
• 1 can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 packet taco seasoning

Cooking Instructions

1. Brown the ground beef in a pan and drain the fat.
2. Add the ground beef and remaining ingredients to your slow cooker.
3. Stir well and cover.
4. Cook on high for 2 hours (about 93°C) or low for 4 hours (about 77°C). Enjoy!

11) Classic Southern Dressing

Classic Southern dressing is a flavorful dish that pairs well with many meals. You can enjoy it during holidays or any family gathering. It’s easy to make and is great for two people.

To start, you need cornbread as a base. Combine it with broth, diced vegetables, and spices. This adds texture and rich flavors.

You can include items like celery, onion, and herbs for extra taste. Mixing in beaten eggs helps bind everything together.

Bake until the top is golden and the dressing is hot all the way through.

Ingredients

• 2 cups crumbled cornbread
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small onion, diced
• ¼ cup chopped celery
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, melt butter and sauté onion and celery until soft.
3. In a bowl, mix cornbread with sautéed vegetables.
4. Add the beaten egg and chicken broth, stirring well.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Pour mixture into a greased baking dish.
7. Bake for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

12) Stovetop Berry Crisp

Making a stovetop berry crisp is quick and easy. You can enjoy this delicious dessert without turning on the oven.

Start by mixing fresh or frozen berries in a skillet. You can use a blend of raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries for great flavor.

Next, in a separate bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon.

Sprinkle this mixture over the berries. Cook on medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the berries are bubbly and the topping is golden brown.

Serve warm, and enjoy!

Ingredients

• 1 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup oats
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Cooking Instructions

1. In a skillet, add berries.
2. In a bowl, mix oats, brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon.
3. Sprinkle the oat mixture over the berries.
4. Cook on medium heat for 10-15 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
5. Serve warm.

13) Marry Me Salmon

Marry Me Salmon is a delicious dish that’s perfect for two. The salmon is soft and flaky, paired with a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce that is both rich and flavorful. This recipe takes about 40 minutes from start to finish.

To make it, you will need fresh salmon fillets and some simple ingredients like garlic, butter, and cream. The flavors blend nicely, making it a special meal for a date night or a cozy dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Stir in cream, chicken broth, lemon juice, and sun-dried tomatoes.
4. Season the salmon with salt and pepper, placing it in the skillet.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the salmon starts to cook through.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the salmon is fully cooked. Enjoy!

14) Steak au Poivre for Two

Steak au Poivre is a classic dish that’s perfect for a romantic dinner. It features a tender steak crusted with crushed peppercorns. The rich sauce made with cognac adds great flavor.

You will need just a few simple ingredients to make this special meal. Choose good quality steak for the best taste. Pair it with a light salad or some roasted vegetables for a delightful dinner for two.

Ingredients

• 2 filet mignons
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 3 tablespoons peppercorns
• 2 tablespoons butter, divided
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ¼ cup shallots
• ⅓ cup cognac

Cooking Instructions

1. Season the steaks with salt and coat with peppercorns.
2. Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Cook the steaks for 4-5 minutes on each side.
4. Remove the steaks and let them rest.
5. In the same skillet, add shallots and cook for 2 minutes.
6. Pour in the cognac, scraping up bits from the skillet.
7. Add the remaining butter and simmer until the sauce thickens.
8. Serve the sauce over the steaks.

15) Romantic Lamb Shanks

Lamb shanks are perfect for a romantic dinner for two. The tender meat and rich flavors create a cozy atmosphere. You can cook them in a red wine sauce, which adds depth and warmth to the dish.

Start by seasoning the lamb shanks with salt and pepper. Searing them in a hot pan locks in the juices. After that, you can slow cook them with garlic, rosemary, and tomatoes for a delicious finish.

Serve the lamb shanks with creamy mashed potatoes or couscous to soak up the sauce. This dish is sure to impress your loved one and set the mood for a special evening.

Ingredients

• 2 lamb shanks
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 sprigs rosemary
• 1 can (14 oz or 400 g) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup (240 ml) red wine

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a pan and sear the shanks until browned. This should take about 5 minutes on each side.
4. Add garlic and rosemary to the pan and cook for 1 minute.
5. Then, pour in the diced tomatoes and red wine.
6. Cover the pan and transfer it to the oven.
7. Cook for 2 to 3 hours, until tender.