Are you looking for delicious dinner recipes to impress your guests at special occasions? Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or holiday celebration, these 20 mouth-watering recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From classic comfort foods to innovative twists on international flavors, we’ve got you covered with our collection of easy-to-make and flavorful dishes.
From succulent steaks and pasta bakes to hearty stir-fries and slow-cooked meats, our list features a wide range of recipes that cater to various tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re a meat-lover, vegetarian, or simply looking for some inspiration, there’s something on this list for everyone.
In the following pages, we’ll take you through each recipe, highlighting its key ingredients, preparation time, and cooking methods. So go ahead, get cooking, and make your special occasion dinner a memorable one!
Garlic Butter Steak with Roasted Vegetables
A classic combination that’s sure to please – tender steak smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce, served alongside a medley of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Assorted vegetables (such as Brussels sprouts, broccoli, carrots, and red bell peppers)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Season steak with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat; add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Sear steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Transfer steak to oven and roast for 10-12 minutes, or until slightly charred.
6. Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper; spread on a baking sheet.
7. Roast vegetables in the oven alongside the steak for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Creamy Lemon Garlic Parmesan Pasta
A vibrant and flavorful pasta dish that combines the brightness of lemon with the richness of parmesan cheese, all tied together with a creamy garlic sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Pour in lemon juice and stir to combine with the garlic mixture. Bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the creamy sauce, tossing to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the sweetness of honey and the tanginess of mustard. These baked chicken thighs are a perfect addition to any meal or gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and Dijon mustard until smooth.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large baking dish lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the honey-mustard mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs.
5. Sprinkle olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the chicken.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa
Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa Recipe
Elevate your grilled salmon game with this sweet and tangy mango salsa, perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or spray for grilling
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Grill salmon for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro in a bowl.
5. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and stir to combine.
6. Serve grilled salmon topped with mango salsa.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a staple for a reason – it’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be on the table in under 30 minutes. With just a few simple ingredients and some quick cooking, you’ll have a satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
4. Add broccoli, garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for 3-4 minutes or until broccoli is tender-crisp.
5. Return beef to skillet and stir to combine with broccoli mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
This classic recipe combines the flavors of spinach, ricotta cheese, and pasta to create a satisfying and comforting dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the spinach-ricotta mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pot Creamy Mushroom Risotto
Rich and creamy, this one-pot risotto is a perfect comfort food dish. With a medley of sautéed mushrooms and Arborio rice cooked to perfection in a flavorful chicken broth, you’ll be delighted by the simplicity and indulgence of this recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their moisture and start browning.
3. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add white wine; cook until absorbed.
5. Gradually add chicken broth, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Get ready for a tender and juicy pulled pork experience with this easy-to-make slow cooker recipe. Perfect for game day gatherings or casual weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine the pork shoulder, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
4. Split the hamburger buns in half and toast lightly.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by spooning the pulled pork onto the buns. Top with coleslaw, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Lemon Herb Roasted Potatoes and Asparagus
Brighten up your meal with this vibrant and flavorful side dish! A perfect combination of tender asparagus, crispy potatoes, and a zesty lemon herb flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound small red potatoes, halved
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; arrange potatoes in a single layer.
4. Roast potatoes for 20-25 minutes or until tender and golden brown.
5. Toss asparagus with remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and rosemary.
6. Spread asparagus on the same baking sheet as the potatoes.
7. Return to oven; roast for an additional 10-12 minutes or until asparagus is tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Shrimp Scampi with Garlic Bread
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines succulent shrimp with a flavorful garlic butter sauce, served alongside crispy garlic bread for the perfect comfort food experience. With just a few simple ingredients and quick cooking time, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Garlic bread ingredients: 1 loaf Italian bread, 3 cloves of garlic, minced, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove shrimp from heat; stir in white wine (if using) and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Meanwhile, prepare garlic bread: mix minced garlic with melted butter and spread on Italian bread. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
6. Bake garlic bread for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Peppers
A twist on the classic Italian dish, these stuffed peppers bring together tender chicken, rich alfredo sauce, and sweet bell peppers for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1 cup alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the peppers, removing seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, combine cooked chicken, alfredo sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the chicken mixture, filling as full as possible.
5. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Teriyaki Glazed Meatballs with Rice
This recipe combines the savory flavors of meatballs with a sweet and sticky teriyaki glaze, served over fluffy Japanese-style rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cooked Japanese-style rice
– Teriyaki glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix meatball ingredients together, then shape into balls. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. While meatballs are cooking, prepare teriyaki glaze according to package instructions or recipe.
5. Serve cooked meatballs over Japanese-style rice, drizzled with teriyaki glaze.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegetable Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce
This classic Italian dish is a hearty and satisfying meal that combines tender lasagna noodles, rich béchamel sauce, and an assortment of sautéed vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup béchamel sauce (see below for recipe)
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until softened, then add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked lasagna noodles, sautéed vegetables, and béchamel sauce.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Béchamel Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Melt butter in a saucepan, then whisk in flour to make a roux. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce
Experience the simplicity and elegance of this seafood dish, as tender scallops are seared to perfection and served with a bright and tangy lemon butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Rinse scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. Add butter to the pan and let melt. Add garlic; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add scallops to the pan; sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. Remove scallops from heat; keep warm.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and Dijon mustard.
7. Pour sauce over scallops; season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Thai Basil Beef with Jasmine Rice
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Thai basil and chili peppers with tender beef, served over fragrant jasmine rice. Perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 cup Thai red curry paste
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh Thai basil leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Jasmine rice, cooked according to package instructions
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together garlic, ginger, soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, and curry paste.
2. Add beef strips and toss to coat; let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove beef from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Cook beef for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness. Transfer to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
5. Add curry paste mixture to the wok or skillet and stir-fry for 1 minute, adding water as needed to prevent burning.
6. Stir in Thai basil leaves; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve beef over cooked jasmine rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Bacon
Elevate a comfort food classic by adding the smoky goodness of crispy bacon to this creamy baked macaroni and cheese dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, cheese mixture, and crispy bacon in a baking dish. Top with additional grated cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers
A flavorful twist on traditional burgers, these grilled portobello mushroom burgers offer a meaty, savory alternative to beef or chicken. Perfect for vegetarians and vegans alike, this recipe is easy to make and packed with umami flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and your favorite toppings (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the mushrooms.
4. Grill the mushrooms for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Assemble burgers on buns with your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes (depending on grill heat)
Chicken and Spinach Quesadillas
These flavorful quesadillas combine tender chicken, wilted spinach, and melted cheese inside a crispy tortilla. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 large tortillas
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine cooked chicken, spinach, cheese, onion, and garlic.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Beef Bourguignon with Mashed Potatoes
This hearty dish combines tender beef short ribs cooked in a rich red wine broth, served with creamy mashed potatoes. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef short ribs
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Burgundy)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 bay leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
– Butter or cream for mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Brown the beef short ribs in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, red wine, beef broth, carrots, celery, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
4. Cook for 2 hours, or until the meat is tender.
5. Meanwhile, boil the chopped potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with butter or cream.
6. Serve the beef short ribs over mashed potatoes.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (plus preparation time)
Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Chicken
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, chicken, and pesto pasta for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto sauce
– 1 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and stir to combine with chicken. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in pesto sauce and reserved pasta water until well combined.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and tomato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Looking for delicious dinner recipes to impress your guests at special occasions? Look no further! This article features 20 mouth-watering dishes that are sure to please. From classic comfort food like Garlic Butter Steak with Roasted Vegetables and Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Bacon, to international-inspired flavors like Spicy Thai Basil Beef with Jasmine Rice and Teriyaki Glazed Meatballs with Rice, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want a quick and easy meal, these recipes are sure to satisfy your appetite.
