• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Instant Pot Eats
  • Home
  • Recipes
    • 100 Best Instant Pot Recipes
    • Chicken
    • Beef
    • Pork
    • Instant Pot Fish & Seafood Recipes
    • Soups
    • Stews & Braises
    • Rice
    • Pasta
    • Side Dishes
    • Desserts
    • Roundups
    • Duo Crisp + Air Fryer
    • 5-Ingredients
  • Instant Pot Basics
    • Instant Pot For Beginners Hub
    • What Is Instant Pot?
    • How To Use The Instant Pot
    • The First 10 Meals
    • Instant Pot Accessories
    • Instant Pot Water Test
    • Instant Pot Cookbooks
    • Instant Pot 101 Series
  • By Diet
    • Vegetarian
    • Vegan
    • Gluten-Free
    • Paleo
    • Keto
  • About
    • About Us
    • Contact
    • Our Privacy Policy
    • Web Stories
menu icon
go to homepage
search icon
Homepage link
  • Home
  • Recipes
  • Instant Pot Basics
  • By Diet
  • About Us
×
Home » Instant Pot Recipes

21 Easy Dinner Ideas For Two That Show You Care

Published: Sep 5, 2024 by Nivenka · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

365 shares
  • Share
  • Tweet
  • Email
Jump to Recipe
Dinner Ideas For Two

Whether you're enjoying a cozy date night or a casual weeknight meal, these homemade dinners for two are perfect. While finding recipes that aren’t designed for a crowd can be challenging, having dinner ideas for two allows you to cook and savor delicious food without the hassle of leftovers.

To spice up your weeknight dinners, we’ve gathered Easy Dinner Ideas For Two to refresh your routine. This list includes a little bit of everything—vegetarian meals, pasta dishes, healthy seasonal salads, and even a few grilling recipes.

Table Of Contents
  1. 1. Marry Me Chicken
  2. 2. Air Fryer Pizza from scratch
  3. 3. Pesto Orecchiette With Chicken Sausage
  4. 4. Ground Beef Taco Salad
  5. 5. Honey Balsamic Lamb Chops for Two
  6. 6. Bourbon Pecan Crusted Salmon
  7. 7. Roast Turkey Thighs for Two
  8. 8. Shrimp and Corn Risotto with Bacon
  9. 9. Stuffed Peppers
  10. 10. Pan Seared Duck Breast Recipe with Cherry Sauce
  11. 11. Saucy Shrimp Stir Fry With Noodles
  12. 12. Grilled Chicken with Coconut-Lime Slaw
  13. 13. Easy Shrimp and Broccoli
  14. 14. Crispy Tofu With Peanut Sauce
  15. 15. Winter Pomegranate Salad with Maple Candied Walnuts
  16. 16. Instant Pot Air Fryer Pork Chops With Maple Mustard Glaze (No Breading)
  17. 17. Surf and Turf
  18. 18. Thai Beef and Vegetable Curry
  19. 19. Grilled Flank Steak Salad
  20. 20. Instant Pot Ground Beef Stroganoff
  21. 21. One-Pan Pork Tenderloin with Veggies
  22. 21 Easy Dinner Ideas For Two That Show You Care

1. Marry Me Chicken

Seared chicken breasts topped with a creamy, red pepper sauce and fresh basil leaves.
Photo Credits: delish.com

Juicy, tender chicken thighs are seared to perfection and then simmered in a rich, tangy tomato sauce. Next, briny olives and capers are added, creating a savory depth that’s irresistible.

Hints of garlic, fresh herbs, and a pop of lemon follow, each bite bursting with bold, zesty notes. Best of all, it's a one-pan meal, making cleanup a breeze while delivering a dish that’s sophisticated yet simple enough for any weeknight.

SKIP TO RECIPE

2. Air Fryer Pizza from scratch

A delicious, homemade pizza with a crispy crust, topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and salami.

From mixing the dough to topping it with your favorite ingredients, you’ll enjoy the process of creating a fresh and flavorful pizza. The air fryer gives the crust an irresistible golden crunch while keeping the inside soft and chewy.

Perfect for a cozy dinner for two, whether you’re craving a classic Margherita or something more adventurous, this recipe delivers a quick, easy, and satisfying pizza experience that's sure to impress.

SKIP TO RECIPE

3. Pesto Orecchiette With Chicken Sausage

A bowl of orecchiette pasta tossed with pesto, cooked sausage, green peas, and snow peas, served on a white plate.
Photo Credits: realsimple.com

This Pesto Orecchiette with Chicken Sausage is a delightful and easy-to-make meal that brings vibrant flavors to your table. Tender orecchiette pasta is tossed in a rich, aromatic pesto sauce, perfectly coating every bite.

Next, the addition of savory chicken sausage adds heartiness and protein, while fresh vegetables lend a pop of color and texture. Finally, with a balance of freshness and comfort, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner for two.

SKIP TO RECIPE

4. Ground Beef Taco Salad

 A bowl of ground beef taco salad with lettuce, tomatoes, beans, corn, and tortilla chips.
Photo Credits: tasteofhome.com

This Ground Beef Taco Salad is a vibrant and hearty dish that combines all your favorite taco flavors in a fresh, crisp salad.

Seasoned ground beef is the star, perfectly spiced and layered over a bed of crunchy lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocado. Topped with shredded cheese, tortilla chips, and a zesty homemade dressing, this salad is both satisfying and refreshing.

SKIP TO RECIPE

5. Honey Balsamic Lamb Chops for Two

Two lamb chops seasoned with herbs and spices, cooked to a golden brown, and served with rosemary sprigs.
Photo Credits: bakeaholicmama.com

These lamb chops are marinated in a rich balsamic glaze infused with garlic, herbs, and a touch of honey, creating a tender, juicy bite with a delightful balance of sweet and tangy notes.

Seared to perfection, they offer a beautifully caramelized crust while remaining succulent inside. Serve these lamb chops alongside your favorite sides for a restaurant-quality meal that's surprisingly easy to prepare and sure to impress.

SKIP TO RECIPE

6. Bourbon Pecan Crusted Salmon

A piece of salmon fillet with a golden-brown pecan crust, served with a side salad. The salmon is flaky and cooked through.
Photo Credits: yummyaddiction.com

coated in a crunchy, flavorful pecan crust with a hint of bourbon, adding a rich, smoky depth to each bite. Baked to perfection, the salmon remains tender and juicy inside, while the crust delivers a delightful crunch. This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad or roasted vegetables, making it an ideal choice for a romantic evening or a special weeknight meal.

SKIP TO RECIPE

7. Roast Turkey Thighs for Two

Two roasted turkey thighs in a pan, seasoned with herbs and spices.
Photo Credits: thelifejolie.com

These turkey thighs are roasted to perfection, resulting in crispy skin and tender, juicy meat. The rich, savory flavors are enhanced by a touch of garlic and fresh rosemary, creating a mouthwatering dish that's both hearty and satisfying.

Whether you're preparing a special meal or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these roast turkey thighs deliver delicious results with minimal fuss.

SKIP TO RECIPE

8. Shrimp and Corn Risotto with Bacon

A bowl of creamy risotto with cooked shrimp, corn kernels, and crispy bacon.
Photo Credits: fromachefskitchen.com

Creamy risotto is enriched with the smoky flavor of crispy bacon and the sweetness of fresh corn, creating a harmonious blend of tastes and textures. Tender shrimp are sautéed to perfection and folded into the risotto, adding a succulent seafood element that complements the dish beautifully.

Finished with a touch of Parmesan cheese, this risotto offers a rich, satisfying meal that's both indulgent and elegant.

SKIP TO RECIPE

9. Stuffed Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers with ground beef, rice, and melted cheese. The peppers are in various colors and are topped with fresh parsley.
Photo Credits: delish.com

Tender bell peppers are generously filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and rich tomato sauce, then baked until the peppers are perfectly tender and the filling is bubbling with flavor.

Topped with melted cheese for an extra touch of indulgence, these stuffed peppers offer a delightful balance of flavors and textures in every bite. They’re easy to prepare and make for a wholesome, nutritious meal.

SKIP TO RECIPE

10. Pan Seared Duck Breast Recipe with Cherry Sauce

Sliced pan-seared duck breast served with a cherry sauce and a bed of arugula salad, served on a black plate.
Photo Credits: anediblemosaic.com

The duck breasts are expertly seared to achieve a crisp, golden-brown skin while keeping the meat tender and juicy. A simple yet sophisticated glaze, often featuring a hint of fruit or balsamic, enhances the rich, savory flavor of the duck. This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a creamy risotto, making it a perfect choice for an upscale meal at home.

SKIP TO RECIPE

11. Saucy Shrimp Stir Fry With Noodles

 A white bowl filled with stir-fried rice noodles. The noodles are coated in a glossy, reddish-brown sauce and are mixed with cooked shrimp, chopped vegetables.
Photo Credits: realsimple.com

Succulent shrimp are stir-fried with a medley of crisp vegetables and tender noodles, all coated in a rich and tangy sauce that brings everything together. The dish is bursting with savory, umami flavors and has just the right amount of sweetness and spice to tantalize your taste buds. Ready in under 30 minutes.

SKIP TO RECIPE

12. Grilled Chicken with Coconut-Lime Slaw

Grilled chicken breasts served with a side of red cabbage slaw. The chicken is seasoned with herbs and spices and has visible grill marks.
Photo Credits: goodhousekeeping.com

This Grilled Chicken with Coconut Lime Slaw is a refreshing and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a light yet satisfying dinner for two. Tender, grilled chicken breasts are paired with a vibrant coconut lime slaw that adds a crisp, tropical twist.

The slaw’s combination of shredded coconut, tangy lime juice, and fresh herbs creates a zesty contrast to the smoky, charred chicken. Easy to prepare and full of bright, summery flavors, this meal is ideal for a casual evening or a special treat for two.

SKIP TO RECIPE

13. Easy Shrimp and Broccoli

Stir-fried shrimp and broccoli in a bowl.  Sesame seeds are sprinkled on top.
Photo Credits: acouplecooks.com

A perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, making it an ideal dinner for two. Tender shrimp and crisp broccoli are stir-fried together in a savory sauce that highlights the freshness of the ingredients while adding a touch of umami and spice.

The combination of succulent shrimp and vibrant broccoli creates a satisfying and healthy meal that’s both quick to prepare and full of taste. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious weeknight dinner or a light, flavorful option for a special evening, this dish is sure to impress.

SKIP TO RECIPE

14. Crispy Tofu With Peanut Sauce

 Crispy tofu served in a rich, yellow curry sauce. The tofu is pan-fried until golden brown and is topped with fresh cilantro.
Photo Credits: bonappetit.com

This Tofu with Peanut Sauce is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner for two. Crispy tofu cubes are bathed in a rich, creamy peanut sauce that’s both savory and slightly sweet, offering a delightful balance of flavors.

The sauce, made with smooth peanut butter, soy sauce, and a hint of spice, coats the tofu perfectly, creating a mouthwatering dish that pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles.

SKIP TO RECIPE

15. Winter Pomegranate Salad with Maple Candied Walnuts

A vibrant salad with mixed greens, arugula, pomegranate seeds, candied walnuts, blue cheese crumbles, and citrus segments.
Photo Credits: halfbakedharvest.com

Crisp mixed greens are topped with crunchy, sweet maple-candied walnuts, adding a delightful texture and flavor contrast. The balsamic fig dressing adds a rich, fruity depth that ties everything together beautifully.

With its balance of sweetness, tanginess, and savory elements, this salad is both a feast for the eyes and the palate. Ideal for a light yet satisfying meal, it brings a touch of sophistication to any dining occasion.

SKIP TO RECIPE

16. Instant Pot Air Fryer Pork Chops With Maple Mustard Glaze (No Breading)

Two pork chops served with roasted asparagus and broccoli. The pork chops are coated in a sauce.

A fantastic choice for a quick and delicious dinner for two. The pork chops are perfectly seasoned and cooked to a juicy, tender texture using the air fryer function of your Instant Pot.

The result is a crispy exterior with a savory, flavorful interior, all without the need for excessive oil. This easy-to-make recipe combines the convenience of the Instant Pot with the crispiness of air frying, making it a great option for a weeknight meal that's both satisfying and hassle-free.

SKIP TO RECIPE

17. Surf and Turf

 A plate of surf and turf with a seared steak, sautéed shrimp in a creamy sauce, mashed potatoes, and roasted Brussels sprouts.
Photo Credits: thepioneerwoman.com

Imagine a juicy, perfectly cooked steak topped with fragrant herbs and garlic butter, nestled beside plump, pink shrimp in a creamy, dreamy Parmesan sauce. This surf and turf recipe is the epitome of indulgence, and it's surprisingly easy to make at home. So ditch the takeout menus and treat yourself to a restaurant-worthy meal that's sure to impress!

SKIP TO RECIPE

18. Thai Beef and Vegetable Curry

Two bowls of Thai beef and vegetable curry. The curry is a rich, yellow color and contains chunks of beef, potatoes, carrots, and green beans, served with a side of steamed rice and garnished with fresh cilantro.
Photo Credits: womansday.com

A vibrant, aromatic curry filled with tender pieces of beef and a colorful medley of vegetables. This Thai Beef and Vegetable Curry is a flavorful explosion of taste that will leave your taste buds dancing.

The yellow chiles and turmeric create a rich, golden hue and a warm, comforting spice, while the coconut milk adds a creamy, indulgent texture. It's a perfect balance of savory and spicy that will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.

SKIP TO RECIPE

19. Grilled Flank Steak Salad

Grilled flank steak salad with mixed greens, grilled bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, and a side of creamy dressing
Photo Credits: bhg.com

Tender, marinated flank steak is grilled to perfection and sliced thin, adding a deliciously smoky and savory element to the salad.

Paired with crisp greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette, this salad offers a satisfying mix of flavors and textures. The steak adds a substantial and flavorful punch, making this dish a well-rounded and impressive choice for a special evening meal for two.

SKIP TO RECIPE

20. Instant Pot Ground Beef Stroganoff

A bowl of ground beef stroganoff with rotini pasta, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce. The dish is garnished with fresh parsley.

Craving a hearty and comforting meal? This Instant Pot Ground Beef Stroganoff is the answer! It's a classic dish made even easier with your pressure cooker.

Tender ground beef simmered in a creamy mushroom sauce, all coming together in a fraction of the time. This stroganoff is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner that's both satisfying and delicious.

SKIP TO RECIPE

21. One-Pan Pork Tenderloin with Veggies

 Sliced grilled pork tenderloin with rosemary sprigs. The pork is seasoned and has a golden brown crust.
Photo Credits: girlandthekitchen.com

This One-Pan Roasted Pork Tenderloin with Veggies is a fantastic, quick meal perfect for a cozy dinner for two. The pork tenderloin is seasoned to perfection and roasted alongside a colorful medley of vegetables, creating a dish that's both flavorful and easy to prepare.

The one-pan method ensures minimal cleanup, while the combination of tender, juicy pork, and perfectly roasted veggies offers a delicious balance of tastes and textures.

SKIP TO RECIPE

With these 21 easy and romantic dinner ideas for two, you'll effortlessly create memorable meals that show you care. Whether you're planning a special date night or simply want to add a touch of romance to your weeknight dinners, these meals are sure to impress and delight your significant other. Start cooking tonight and make every dinner an opportunity to celebrate your connection.

  • air fryer red potatoes
    Red Potatoes Air Fryer
  • Best Instant Pot Meatball Recipes
    Best Instant Pot Meatball Recipes
  • Instant Pot Seafood & Fish Stew Recipes
    10 Instant Pot Seafood Stew Recipes
  • juicy air fryer tuna steaks with herby lemon caper sauce
    Air Fryer Tuna Steaks

Rate This Recipe

No ratings yet

21 Easy Dinner Ideas For Two That Show You Care

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Servings: 0
Author: Nivenka

Notes

  • Marry Me Chicken
  • Air Fryer Pizza from scratch
  • Pesto Orecchiette With Chicken Sausage
  • Ground Beef Taco Salad
  • Honey Balsamic Lamb Chops for Two
  • Bourbon Pecan Crusted Salmon
  • Roast Turkey Thighs for Two
  • Shrimp and Corn Risotto with Bacon
  • Stuffed Peppers
  • Pan Seared Duck Breast Recipe with Cherry Sauce
  • Saucy Shrimp Stir Fry With Noodles
  • Grilled Chicken with Coconut-Lime Slaw
  • Easy Shrimp and Broccoli
  • Crispy Tofu With Peanut Sauce Winter
  • Pomegranate Salad with Maple Candied Walnuts
  • Instant Pot Air Fryer Pork Chops With Maple Mustard Glaze (No Breading)
  • Surf and Turf
  • Thai Beef and Vegetable Curry
  • Grilled Flank Steak Salad
  • Instant Pot Ground Beef Stroganoff
  • One-pan pork Tenderloin with Veggies
CourseDinner, Entree, Main
CuisineAmerican, Thai
KeywordAir Fryer, Dinner, Instant Pot, Thai
Made this recipe?Mention @instantpoteats or tag #instantpoteats!

More Instant Pot Recipes

  • Side Dishes For Fried Fish
    17 Side Dishes For Fried Fish
  • 6 featured images from 27 Best Side Dishes for Pork Chops
    27 Best Side Dishes for Pork Chops
  • Side Dishes for Chili
    19 Side Dishes for Chili
  • 6 Featured images from 27 Best Sides For Salmon
    27 Best Sides for Salmon
365 shares
  • Share
  • Tweet
  • Email

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Primary Sidebar

About Us

We are a team of food enthusiasts, chefs and cookbook authors. On this blog we share a variety of Instant Pot recipes catered to different diets, budgets and needs, as well as roundups of our favourite dishes and ideas from around the web. You can find our Instant Pot 101 series here, which are useful for anyone mastering their new pressure cooker.


Popular Articles

  • 33 Instant Pot Chicken Breast Recipes
  • display instant pot
    Understanding Instant Pot Settings And Instructions
  • How to use the Instant Pot for beginners
    How To Use The Instant Pot For Beginners
  • Instant Pot Chicken Souvlaki Rice
    Instant Pot Chicken Souvlaki Rice

Our Recipe E-Book

Fan Favorites Recipes eBook

GET OUR FREE 25-RECIPE EBOOK

Newest Articles

  • This Cruxgg 6 qt
    CRUXGG Air Fryer Review: Style Meets Substance in the Kitchen
  • insignia pressure cooker
    Instant Pot Vs Insignia: Which Cooks Up the Best Meal?
  • 6 featured images from 17 italian casseroles
    17 Italian Casseroles
  • A collage of six delicious low-carb breakfast recipes. The top-left image features a bowl of yogurt topped with granola, blueberries, and raspberries. The top-middle image shows a bowl filled with golden-brown crescent rolls stuffed with chocolate. The top-right image presents a breakfast crescent ring filled with eggs, cheese, and herbs, baked to a golden crisp. The bottom-left image displays colorful bell peppers stuffed with eggs and garnished with radish slices and parsley. The bottom-middle image showcases a thick, creamy berry smoothie in a glass, topped with fresh strawberries and mini chocolate chips. The bottom-right image features a stacked breakfast sandwich made with crispy waffle buns, sausage patties, eggs, and melted cheese
    33 Low Carb Breakfast Ideas

Footer

  • About
  • Contact Us
  • Privacy Policy

2024 © INSTANT POT EATS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.


Rate This Recipe

Your vote:




A rating is required
A name is required
An email is required