10 Adorable ‘Dinner Recipes for Two’ Ideas for Your Next Celebration

There’s something magical about preparing and sharing a meal with someone special. Whether it’s a romantic evening with your partner, a casual dinner with a friend, or simply cooking for yourself and enjoying leftovers the next day, dinner recipes for two offer the perfect portion size without excessive waste or overwhelming preparation.

In today’s fast-paced world, taking the time to create a meaningful dining experience can strengthen bonds and create lasting memories. A thoughtfully prepared dinner for two transforms an ordinary evening into a special occasion, allowing you to connect over delicious food in an intimate setting.

What to Expect in This Blog Post

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share 20 delicious dinner recipes for two that are perfect for various occasions and preferences. From quick weeknight meals to fancy date night spreads, healthy options to make-ahead dishes, you’ll find inspiration for your next cozy dinner. Each recipe is carefully portioned for two people, meaning you won’t be drowning in leftovers or adjusting measurements from family-sized recipes.

Why Dinner for Two Matters

Creating a dinner for two isn’t just about portion control—it’s about crafting an experience. When cooking for just two people, you can:

• Focus on quality ingredients without breaking the bank
• Customize dishes to both diners’ preferences
• Create an intimate atmosphere that encourages conversation
• Experiment with new recipes without committing to large quantities
• Reduce food waste by preparing just what you’ll eat

A cozy dinner for two creates space for meaningful connection in our busy lives. It’s an opportunity to slow down, savor both the food and the company, and create traditions that strengthen your relationship. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying an ordinary Tuesday, these recipes will help you create memorable dining experiences.

Romantic Dinner Recipes for Two to Impress Your Loved One

Classic Steak Dinner with Roasted Vegetables

Nothing says “special occasion” quite like a perfectly cooked steak dinner. This classic combination of tender meat and colorful roasted vegetables creates an impressive yet approachable romantic dinner.

Ingredients:

• 2 ribeye or New York strip steaks (8-10 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 small zucchini, sliced
• 1 small yellow squash, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

Instructions:

1. Remove steaks from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring to room temperature.
2. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
3. Toss prepared vegetables with 1 tablespoon olive oil, half the garlic, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet.
4. Roast vegetables for 20-25 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, pat steaks dry with paper towels. Rub with remaining olive oil and garlic, then season generously with salt and pepper.
6. Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat until very hot. Add steaks and cook for 3-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or to your preferred doneness.
7. Let steaks rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
8. Drizzle vegetables with balsamic vinegar and serve alongside the steaks.

Chef’s Tip: For the perfect steak, invest in a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, look for an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C).

Pasta Carbonara for Two

This creamy, indulgent pasta dish comes together quickly with just a few ingredients but delivers maximum flavor. It’s the perfect cozy dinner recipe for two that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 6 oz spaghetti or bucatini pasta
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• ⅓ cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese, plus more for serving
• ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
2. While pasta cooks, whisk eggs and cheeses together in a small bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add garlic to the pancetta and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain pasta.
6. With the heat OFF, add hot pasta to the skillet with pancetta and toss quickly.
7. Quickly pour in the egg and cheese mixture, stirring constantly. Add a splash of pasta water to create a creamy sauce.
8. Season generously with black pepper and garnish with parsley and additional cheese.
9. Serve immediately on warmed plates.

Grilled Salmon with Lemon and Dill

Light yet satisfying, this elegant salmon dish is perfect for a romantic dinner that won’t leave you feeling overly full. The bright flavors of lemon and dill complement the rich salmon perfectly.

Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon, half juiced and half sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped, plus more for garnish
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, dill, garlic, and honey.
3. Place salmon fillets on a piece of foil. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Pour marinade over salmon and top with lemon slices.
5. Fold foil to create a packet around the salmon.
6. Grill or bake for 12-15 minutes until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
7. Garnish with additional fresh dill and serve with lemon wedges.

Pan-Seared Chicken Breast with Garlic Herb Butter

This simple yet decadent chicken dish transforms an everyday protein into something special. The garlic herb butter adds richness and flavor that makes this one of the best dinner recipes for two people looking for something easy yet impressive.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons butter, softened
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (mixture of parsley, thyme, and rosemary), finely chopped
• ½ teaspoon lemon zest
• ¼ cup chicken broth
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Pat chicken breasts dry and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. In a small bowl, mix softened butter with garlic, herbs, and lemon zest. Set aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Remove chicken to a plate and tent with foil.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and add the herb butter to the skillet.
7. Once melted, add chicken broth and stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits.
8. Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top.
9. Serve with lemon wedges and additional sauce drizzled over the chicken.

Easy and Quick Dinner Recipes for Two for Busy Weeknights

One-Pan Chicken and Veggie Bake

When you need cozy dinner recipes for two but don’t have time for elaborate preparation or cleanup, this one-pan wonder comes to the rescue. Everything roasts together on a single sheet pan for maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 small sweet potato, cut into ¾-inch cubes
• 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved
• 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and onion with 1 tablespoon olive oil, half the garlic, and half the herbs. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Spread vegetables on a baking sheet and roast for 10 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, in the same bowl, toss chicken thighs with remaining olive oil, garlic, herbs, and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Remove baking sheet from oven, push vegetables to the sides, and place chicken in the center.
6. Return to oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve directly from the pan.

Quick Shrimp Scampi with Garlic and Lemon

This classic Italian-American dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you still want something special. The bright, garlicky sauce makes this one of the best dinner recipes for two seafood lovers.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
• 3 tablespoons butter, divided
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ¾ lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ cup dry white wine
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Grated Parmesan for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
2. While pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add shrimp in a single layer and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
5. Remove shrimp to a plate.
6. Add wine to the skillet and simmer for 1-2 minutes.
7. Stir in lemon juice and zest, then add remaining butter.
8. Return shrimp to the skillet along with the drained pasta and parsley. Toss to combine, adding pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce.
9. Serve immediately with Parmesan if desired.

Stir-Fry with Tofu and Veggies

This vegetarian dinner for two packs a flavorful punch and comes together in minutes. The key is to prep all ingredients before you start cooking, as the stir-frying process moves quickly.

Ingredients:

• 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 small carrot, julienned
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 2 green onions, sliced
• For the sauce:
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • ¼ cup vegetable broth
• Cooked rice for serving

Instructions:

1. Press tofu by wrapping in paper towels and placing under a heavy object for 30 minutes. Cut into 1-inch cubes.
2. Toss tofu cubes with cornstarch until lightly coated.
3. Mix all sauce ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.
4. Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
5. Add tofu and cook until golden and crispy on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove to a plate.
6. Add remaining oil to the wok. Add vegetables, garlic, and ginger, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender.
7. Return tofu to the wok and add sauce. Stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until sauce thickens.
8. Garnish with green onions and serve over rice.

Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

This takeout favorite becomes an easy dinner recipe for two when made at home. It’s quick, customizable, and much healthier than restaurant versions.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce, divided
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• For the sauce:
  • ¼ cup beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Cooked rice for serving
• Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, toss sliced beef with cornstarch and 1 tablespoon soy sauce. Let marinate for 15 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, mix remaining sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
4. Add beef in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove to a plate.
5. Add remaining oil to the wok. Add broccoli and bell pepper and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
6. Add garlic and ginger and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
7. Return beef to the wok and add sauce. Stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until sauce thickens.
8. Serve over rice and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.

Fancy Dinner Recipes for Two for Special Occasions

Lobster Tail with Garlic Butter

When you’re celebrating something truly special, lobster tail creates an unforgettable dinner for two. Despite its luxury status, this dish is surprisingly straightforward to prepare at home.

Ingredients:

• 2 lobster tails (6-8 oz each)
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Using kitchen shears, cut the top of the lobster shell down the center, stopping at the tail.
3. Carefully pull the shell apart slightly and gently lift the meat to rest on top of the shell.
4. Place lobster tails on a baking sheet.
5. In a small saucepan, melt butter with garlic over low heat. Stir in lemon juice, parsley, and paprika.
6. Brush lobster meat generously with the garlic butter mixture and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes until lobster meat is opaque and registers 140-145°F (60-63°C) on an instant-read thermometer.
8. Serve immediately with remaining garlic butter and lemon wedges.

Rack of Lamb with Mint Sauce

Elegant and impressive, a rack of lamb makes any dinner feel like a special occasion. The herb crust and mint sauce elevate this dish to restaurant quality.

Ingredients:

• 1 rack of lamb (8 ribs), frenched
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• For the mint sauce:
  • ½ cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Remove rack of lamb from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring to room temperature.
2. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
3. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, herbs, and Dijon mustard.
4. Season rack of lamb with salt and pepper, then rub herb mixture all over.
5. Place lamb, fat side up, on a rack in a roasting pan.
6. Roast for 15 minutes, then reduce heat to 400°F (200°C) and continue roasting for another 10-15 minutes for medium-rare (internal temperature of 125-130°F/52-54°C).
7. While lamb roasts, prepare mint sauce by combining all ingredients in a small bowl.
8. Let lamb rest for 10 minutes before slicing into individual chops.
9. Serve with mint sauce on the side.

Filet Mignon with Red Wine Reduction

Few dishes say “special occasion” quite like perfectly cooked filet mignon. This tender cut paired with a rich red wine sauce creates an unforgettable dinner for two.

Ingredients:

• 2 filet mignon steaks (6-8 oz each)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 cloves garlic, smashed
• For the red wine reduction:
  • 1 shallot, minced
  • 1 cup red wine
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons cold butter, cubed
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Remove steaks from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring to room temperature.
2. Pat steaks dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a cast-iron skillet over high heat until very hot.
4. Add steaks and sear for 3-4 minutes without moving.
5. Flip steaks, then add butter, thyme, and garlic to the pan.
6. Using a spoon, baste steaks with the melted butter for another 3-4 minutes for medium-rare, or until desired doneness.
7. Remove steaks to a plate, tent with foil, and rest for 10 minutes.
8. Meanwhile, prepare the sauce in the same skillet: Add shallot and cook for 1 minute.
9. Add red wine and deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.
10. Simmer until wine is reduced by half, then add beef broth and balsamic vinegar.
11. Continue simmering until sauce is reduced and slightly thickened.
12. Remove from heat and whisk in cold butter cubes. Season with salt and pepper.
13. Strain sauce if desired and serve over steaks.

Seafood Paella for Two

This simplified version of the Spanish classic is perfect for a special dinner for two. Rich with saffron and loaded with seafood, it feels celebratory and sophisticated.

Ingredients:

• ¼ teaspoon saffron threads
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ red bell pepper, diced
• 1 tomato, diced
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¾ cup Arborio or Valencia rice
• ¼ cup dry white wine
• 1½ cups seafood or chicken broth, heated
• 6 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 6 mussels, cleaned
• 4 oz calamari rings
• ¼ cup frozen peas
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Steep saffron threads in 2 tablespoons hot water for 10 minutes.
2. Heat olive oil in a 10-inch paella pan or skillet over medium heat.
3. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add garlic, bell pepper, and tomato. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in smoked paprika and rice, coating grains with oil.
6. Pour in wine and saffron with its soaking liquid. Simmer until mostly absorbed.
7. Add hot broth, stir once, then do not stir again. Bring to a simmer.
8. Cook uncovered for 10 minutes, then arrange seafood on top of the rice.
9. Scatter peas over the top, then cover with foil and cook for another 10 minutes until rice is tender and seafood is cooked.
10. Remove from heat and let rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
11. Garnish with parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Healthy and Light Dinner Recipes for Two

Grilled Vegetable Salad with Feta Cheese

This vibrant, nutritious salad makes a perfect light dinner for two. Grilling the vegetables adds smoky depth and natural sweetness to this satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 small zucchini, sliced lengthwise
• 1 small yellow squash, sliced lengthwise
• 1 red bell pepper, quartered and seeded
• 1 small red onion, cut into thick slices
• 1 small eggplant, sliced into rounds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 cups mixed salad greens
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup Kalamata olives, pitted
• 2 oz feta cheese, crumbled
• For the dressing:
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill vegetables until tender and lightly charred, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Let vegetables cool slightly, then cut into bite-sized pieces.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients.
6. In a large bowl, toss salad greens with half the dressing.
7. Arrange greens on plates, top with grilled vegetables, tomatoes, olives, and feta.
8. Drizzle with remaining dressing and serve.

Zucchini Noodles with Pesto

This low-carb alternative to pasta is fresh, light, and bursting with flavor. It’s one of those cozy dinner recipes for two that satisfies without weighing you down.

Ingredients:

• 2 large zucchini
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• For the pesto:
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves
  • ¼ cup pine nuts, toasted
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Additional Parmesan for serving

Instructions:

1. Using a spiralizer or vegetable peeler, create zucchini noodles.
2. For the pesto, combine basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan in a food processor. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
3. With the processor running, slowly add olive oil until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Add zucchini noodles and cook for 2-3 minutes until just tender but still slightly crisp.
7. Remove from heat and toss with 3-4 tablespoons of pesto and cherry tomatoes.
8. Serve immediately with additional Parmesan.

Chicken and Avocado Salad

This protein-packed salad makes a satisfying yet light dinner for two. The creamy avocado and lean chicken create a perfect balance of healthy fats and protein.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 6 cups mixed salad greens
• 1 avocado, sliced
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds
• For the dressing:
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Sear chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until golden.
5. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients.
8. In a large bowl, toss salad greens with half the dressing.
9. Divide greens between plates and top with chicken, avocado, tomatoes, red onion, and pumpkin seeds.
10. Drizzle with remaining dressing and serve.

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa

These colorful stuffed peppers are nutritious, satisfying, and perfectly portioned for two. They’re ideal for a healthy dinner that still feels substantial.

Ingredients:

• 2 large bell peppers (any color), halved lengthwise and seeds removed
• ½ cup quinoa, rinsed
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ small onion, diced
• 1 small zucchini, diced
• 1 cup spinach, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place bell pepper halves cut-side up in a baking dish. Season with salt and pepper.
3. In a small saucepan, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
4. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
5. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Add zucchini and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
7. Add garlic and Italian seasoning and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
8. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
9. In a bowl, combine cooked quinoa, vegetable mixture, half the feta, and pine nuts. Season with salt and pepper.
10. Stuff bell pepper halves with quinoa mixture and sprinkle with remaining feta.
11. Cover dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
12. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until peppers are tender.
13. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Dinner Recipes for Two That Can Be Made in Advance

Make-Ahead Lasagna for Two

This scaled-down lasagna is perfect for busy couples who want a delicious homemade meal without daily cooking. Make it ahead of time and enjoy it whenever you need a quick dinner for two.

Ingredients:

• 6 lasagna noodles
• ½ lb ground beef or turkey
• ½ small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking immediately.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions. Drain and lay flat on a baking sheet.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground meat and onion until meat is browned and onion is softened.
4. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.
6. In a bowl, mix ricotta, egg, parsley, half the mozzarella, and 2 tablespoons Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper.
7. In a small baking dish (approximately 8×6 inches), spread a thin layer of meat sauce.
8. Layer with 2 lasagna noodles, ⅓ of the ricotta mixture, and ⅓ of the remaining meat sauce.
9. Repeat layers twice, ending with meat sauce.
10. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
11. At this point, you can cover tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
12. When ready to bake, cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes (35 if refrigerated, or thaw overnight if frozen).
13. Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
14. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Slow Cooker Beef Stew

This comforting beef stew is the definition of a cozy dinner recipe for two. It simmers all day in the slow cooker, creating tender meat and vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 small potatoes, cubed
• 1 stalk celery, sliced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

**Instructions