Top 20+ Cozy Dinners That Serve Two And Are Worth Making Weekly

No mathematical equations required.

Finding recipes for two servings can be a challenge. It often requires scaling down a larger recipe, but who has time for math when you’re just trying to get dinner on the table? Ditch the calculator, and feast your eyes on this handpicked collection of recipes perfect for a pair.

You’ll find a majority of complete meals, and for those where you may want a side, we’ve included pairings that will complement your meal. With simple and satisfying recipes like Loaf Pan Lasagna, Broccoli Cheddar Creamy Beans, and Quick Chicken Pho, you’ll find plenty of delicious options to choose from.

01 of 21

Quick Chicken Pho

“This recipe is a great introduction to pho, if you've never had it before. And for pho addicts like myself, it's a good one to have around when a craving strikes.” —Emma Christensen, former General Manager

02 of 21

Cheesy Baked Tacos

“These were perfect for two people. I will be making these often.” —Annie, Reader

03 of 21

15-Minute Dumplings with Peanut-Chili Sauce

“This quick and easy, five-ingredient dumpling dish comes together in just 15 minutes. This recipe may be short and sweet, but it does not compromise on flavor and color. It’s as beautiful as it is delicious” —Frank Tiu, Recipe Developer

04 of 21

Chicken Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta

“This recipe is all about the sauce and the pasta. If you'd like more protein or fresh vegetables in your meal, increase the amount of chicken or throw in whatever veggies you have in the fridge.” —Aaron Hutcherson, Recipe Developer

05 of 21

Cauliflower Rice Bowl with Garlic Shrimp

“Cauliflower rice has become a popular replacement for grains for people who have allergies, or who just want to lower their starchy grain intake. You can either buy it already riced in the frozen foods section or make it yourself.” —Sally Vargas, Recipe Developer

06 of 21

Loaf Pan Lasagna

“You can make this lasagna in half the time of a big batch, making it weeknight-friendly. Downsizing to a loaf pan gives you just enough for two with minimal leftovers and easier cleanup.” —Sally Vargas, Recipe Developer

07 of 21

Smoked Salmon Pasta

“What I love about this recipe, other than the ingredients (smoked salmon, pine nuts, yum!), is that it can be pulled together so quickly. And it's not particularly heavy, as so many cream sauce pastas can be.” —Elise Bauer, Founder

08 of 21

Veggie Tacos

“Make a big batch of veggies ahead of time, and reheat them in a skillet or microwave for quick meals throughout the week.” —Elise Bauer, Founder

09 of 21

Pasta with Tuna and Capers in White Wine Sauce

“My husband and I LOVE this recipe! I almost always have all of the ingredients on hand, it's quick and easy, and quite delicious and very satisfying.” —Karen P, Reader

10 of 21

Stracciatella alla Romana

“To make a bowl of Stracciatella into a full meal, serve it with garlic bread and a salad, which are both quick to make, just like the soup. You can also serve it as a side to Italian Grilled Cheese Sandwiches.” —Simply Recipes Editors

11 of 21

Chicken Carbonara

A great recipe all on its own, you can also serve this decadent pasta with super simple sides like sautéed spinach, roasted veggies, or a crisp green salad.

12 of 21

Chinese Tomato Egg Stir Fry

“Chinese tomato egg is commonly served with a bowl of jasmine rice. The saucy tomatoes will infuse and permeate through the grains, making each bite of rice exciting.” —Frank Tiu, Recipe Developer

13 of 21

Broccoli Cheddar Creamy Beans

“You just need five ingredients (plus a little oil) and 15 minutes to make this dish from start to finish. You’ve got protein from the beans and cheese, and a nice dose of vegetables from the broccoli. Eat it as-is or pair it with a little crusty bread, and dinner is done in record time.” —Laurel Randolph, Associate Editorial Director

14 of 21

Broccoli Pesto Pasta

“This recipe is so quick and easy to make! It comes together in under 20 minutes. And if you don’t have time to prep a side dish or don’t feel like making one, it packs plenty of veggies into one dish.” —Jeanine Donofrio, Recipe Developer

15 of 21

Dumpling Bake

“I made this recipe even simpler and more accessible with just five ingredients (plus an optional garnish). Instead of curry paste, the sauce is based on something almost everyone has in their pantry: peanut butter. When mixed with water, soy sauce, and chile oil, it makes a spicy, savory, and nutty sauce for the dumplings” —Devan Grimsrud, Recipe Developer

16 of 21

Classic Patty Melt

“I like to serve the patty melt with bright, acidic, or vinegar-based side dishes because it’s such a rich sandwich. Try pickles, pickled vegetables, Greek salad, green bean salad, or maybe an olive salad.” —Nick Evans, Recipe Developer

17 of 21

Midnight Pasta

“Perfect as is. Just add a loaf of good bread and a simple romaine salad for a fantastic dinner.” —Christocc, Reader

18 of 21

Shrimp Risotto

“I made your Shrimp Risotto last night for dinner, and it was simple and delicious!! Thanks for another great recipe! I am now completely over my fear of making risotto.” —Julie, Reader

19 of 21

Angel Hair Pasta with Clams, Cherry Tomatoes, and Basil

“I made the pasta for dinner last night, and it was a total hit! It's easy to prepare, and my husband even praised me for the delicious pasta thanks to your recipe.” —Lindsay E, Reader

20 of 21

Easy Pork Bánh Mì

“I recommend assembling the sandwich the morning of the day you plan to serve it, but not earlier because the fridge dries out and hardens the bread. You can prep all the ingredients ahead of time—keep the dồ chua, cooked pork, sliced jalapeños, and cilantro in the fridge for a couple of days. Assemble the sandwich when you’re ready to serve it!” —Cecilia Hae-Jin Lee, Recipe Developer

21 of 21

Creamy Cavatappi

“I often serve creamy cavatappi with a tossed green salad, and we’re ready to eat in under 30 minutes. Win! Other winning accompaniments include roasted broccoli or Broccolini, roasted asparagus, grilled chicken breasts, sautéed shrimp, and more.” —Laurel Randolph, Associate Editorial Director