7 Perfect Dinner Recipes for Two

Whip up these dinner recipes that are easy to make for two.

By
Rachel Knecht
Rachel Knecht
Rachel Knecht
Rachel Knecht turned her home baking into a career in 2016 when she began working as the head baker at The Greenbean Coffeehouse in Seattle, WA. Afterwards, she started Baking with Rachel (her blog), began teaching kids' cooking classes, and recipe tested for the cookbook "Let's Stay In" by Ashley Rodriguez.
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Updated November 07, 2024
Rachel Knecht
Two plates of ginger-soy tilapia with potatoes and asparagus

Simply Recipes / Sally Vargas

My parents and my in-laws both mention how hard it is to cook for two people. I feel the same way when it's just my husband and I. Most recipes make four to six servings, requiring my tired brain to do the math to half a recipe or plan on eating leftovers. Plus, when it's just us, it doesn't seem as imperative to make a full meal and sit at the table, as we do with the kids.

On the other hand, some meals are easier to make for two people than four. For example, you won't find me frying chicken or making skillet pizza for our whole family. It would take too long to make enough food for everyone. I'm going to take advantage of a smaller crowd and whip up dinners that are easy to make for two.

If you're ready to expand your dinner options for two people, check out the list below. These meals make two to three servings without extra work and will be enjoyed by the special person you're sharing the table with.

  • Creamy Cavatappi

    Bowl of Creamy Cavatappi Topped With Shredded Parmesan Next to a Small Bowl With Blocks of Parmesan and Two Forks, All on an Olive Green Kitchen Linen

    Simply Recipes / Mihaela Kozaric Sebrek

    Cavatappi is like macaroni being extra, which is exactly what I’m in the mood for when it’s just my husband and I. It's decadent, comforting, and makes the perfect amount of food for the two of us.

  • Arrachera (Mexican Skirt Steak)

    Platter of Arrachera (Mexican Skirt Steak) Tacos With Lime Wedges, and in the Surroundings, a Platter of Arrachera (Mexican Skirt Steak), a Bowl of Cilantro Rice, a Bowl of Salsa, a Bowl of Guacamole, and a Tray of Tortillas, All on a Light Teal Kitchen Towel

    Simply Recipes / Frank Tiu

    Steak is the perfect dinner for two. The hardest part is waiting for the steak to marinade. Serve the sliced steak as tacos, fajitas, or as a filling for tortas.

  • Noodles with Cucumbers and a Lot of Chili Crisp

    Large bowl of spicy noodles with cucumbers and chili crisp.

    Simply Recipes / Alison Bickel

    I would eat this every night, plus take it for lunch. Add crispy tofu or toss in leftover cooked meats for extra protein.

  • Cast Iron Skillet Pizza

    Cast iron skillet pizza with a slice cut.

    Simply Recipes / Alison Bickel

    If you’re like me then you crave crispy, thick pizza. The extra oil and hot cast iron skillet ensure that the crust is extra crispy without overcooking the toppings.

    Continue to 5 of 7 below

  • Chicken Schnitzel

    chicken schnitzel on plate with arugula and lemons

    Simply Recipes / Alison Bickel

    I willingly fry chicken when there are only two of us for dinner. This recipe is an easy one to make the exact amount that you need.

  • Pesto Shrimp with Cherry Tomatoes

    5-Ingredient Pesto Shrimp with Cherry Tomatoes in a Bowl Next to Cherry Tomatoes on a Vine

    Simply Recipes / Coco Morante

    Shrimp is incredibly quick and easy. You can use either store-bought or homemade pesto. For store-bought, look in the refrigerated section for the freshest, most vibrant flavored pesto.

  • Pork Chops with Cherry Pan Sauce

    Pork Chops with Cherry Pan Sauce
    Aaron Hutcherson

    I’ve eaten my share of pork chops, and I still dream about this one. Buy pitted frozen cherries and you can enjoy this whenever you want, without the hassle of pitting fresh cherries.

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