21 easy dinner recipes for two

Let’s be honest here: Once the kids are finally asleep, the last thing you want to do is spend a long time in the kitchen preparing an elaborate meal — but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice enjoying a delicious homemade dinner. Choosing something that you can simply cook on the stove or bake in the oven while putting your little ones to bed is one way to solve this dilemma. Fortunately, we’ve found some delicious dinner recipes for two that fit the bill and that you’ll want to try ASAP.

These recipes are perfect for enjoying a quiet dinner with your partner without having to spend a lot of extra time cooking at the end of a long day. From cozy classics to unique items, we have something to suit every taste and mood. So sit back, relax, and let us take care of dinner tonight: Here are 21 easy-to-prepare dinner recipes for two that you can make after your bedtime routine is complete.

21 easy dinner recipes for two

1. One-pot chicken and tomato tortellini soup

This delicious recipe uses very simple ingredients and is perfect for keeping simmering on the stove while you do your nightly chores before bed.

2. Grilled salmon with honey, mustard and balsamic

Toss this delicious salmon in the oven and pair it with an accompanying couscous salad for an easy dinner that you and your partner are sure to enjoy.

3. Red curry shrimp with coconut

If you’re looking for some bright, bold flavours, try this one-pot curry that practically does all the cooking for you. Pro tip: Use frozen shrimp to make it easier!

4. Pasta primavera in one bowl

This healthy and unique pasta dish only takes about 10 minutes to cook and can be placed on a low heat stove to keep warm, so it’s ready to eat when you’re done putting the kids to bed.

5. Red chicken enchiladas with vegetables

Enchiladas are a 10/10 meal prep for something you can quickly throw together and throw in the oven. Plus, they always make great leftovers – I know we’re talking about dinner recipes for two, but who doesn’t love delicious leftovers?

6. Gluten-Free Baked Cauliflower and Parmesan Cheese

This is a fun vegetarian option that’s a lot easier than it sounds, with a super easy prep process and the ability to quickly pop into the oven.

7. Quick chicken noodle soup

If you and your partner are craving a super comforting meal, you can’t go wrong with a classic chicken soup that requires no more than a handful of ingredients and simmers well for a long time.

8. Zucchini tomato and cannellini stew

All you have to do to prepare this delicious one-pot soup is let the ingredients cook for about 20 minutes, then add the spinach and serve.

9. One piece of pork with vegetables

We absolutely love the simplicity of a one-pan meal, and this make-ahead recipe for pork tenderloin and veggies makes things easy with a 25-minute cook time.

10. One bowl of roasted red peppers and Alfredo sausage

If you and your partner are in the mood for Italian, try this recipe that’s ready to use after just 30 minutes of simmering on the stove.

11. Fried chicken and green beans

With no more than one pan and a little stirring here and there, this recipe will satisfy your takeout cravings after a long day.

12. Instant cheese taco shells

Tacos and pasta? Yes please. You’ll love this unconventional pasta recipe that practically cooks itself in your Instant Pot.

13. Potato curry

All you have to do is place your ingredients in a bowl and turn on your rice cooker to have a healthy and delicious dinner waiting for you once the kids are asleep.

14. Greek chicken

Take your oven-baked chicken to the next level with this Greek-inspired recipe that pairs perfectly with a glass of red wine for the perfect dinner for two.

15. Crockpot Honey Teriyaki Meatballs

With a few hours, some frozen meatballs, and a few simple ingredients for the glaze, you can have a sweet and tangy main dish ready to serve with any side dish of your choice.

16. Baked feta pasta

This recipe has gone viral on TikTok for good reason. By putting just a few ingredients in the oven, you’ll have a rich, flavorful dish that’s sure to become dinner for you and your partner.

17. Instant butter chicken

Butter chicken is so delicious, and this easy recipe will allow you to make it in no time. Bonus tip: Serve with Trader Joe’s frozen naan bread!

18. Vegetarian meatloaf

Meatloaf without meat? It may seem unusual, but don’t knock it until you’ve tried it. For anyone following a plant-based diet, this recipe is a great option for a quick and easy hearty meal.

19. Roasted sweet potato soup

Soup is the perfect dish to cook while putting your kids to bed, and this recipe for roasted sweet potatoes is perfect as a delicious weeknight dinner for two.

20. Easy lemon chicken piccata

Simple and elegant, lemon chicken piccata comes together in just 30 minutes. The recipe can easily be halved to feed two people, or you can save the extras for leftovers later in the week.

21. Easy One Pot Shrimp and Chicken Gumbo

Convenient, delicious, and hassle-free, there’s no better way to end your day than with this one-pot gumbo that’s sure to become a new fixture in your home.