When it comes to hosting a dinner party, there’s no one quite like Ina Garten. The Barefoot Contessa has built a culinary empire on the back of her elegant yet approachable recipes, and we’re thrilled to bring you 20 of her most stunning dinner party ideas. From classic comfort foods to sophisticated international dishes, these mouthwatering recipes are sure to impress your guests and leave them feeling like they’ve just dined at an upscale restaurant.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat your loved ones to a night out, these elegant Ina Garten recipes have got you covered. From succulent roasted chicken to decadent lobster mac and cheese, each dish is carefully crafted to deliver maximum flavor with minimal fuss. So go ahead, put on your best apron, and get ready to wow your friends and family with these stunning dinner party recipes.
Herb-Roasted Chicken with Lemon and Garlic
This recipe combines the brightness of lemon, the pungency of garlic, and the earthiness of herbs to create a flavorful and aromatic roasted chicken. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be rewarded with a juicy and tender main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and dried thyme.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place sliced lemons inside the cavity of the chicken.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Beef Bourguignon with Mashed Potatoes
Savor the rich flavors of this iconic French dish, slow-cooked to perfection and served with creamy mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck or short ribs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Burgundy or Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 2 bay leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-5 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– Milk or heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, then set aside.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
3. Return the browned beef to the pot, cover, and transfer to the oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until tender.
4. Boil potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain, mash with butter, and add milk or heavy cream if desired.
5. Serve the Bourguignon over mashed potatoes.
Cooking Time: 3-1/2 hours (includes braising time)
Baked Salmon with Dill Sauce
Enjoy a flavorful and healthy dinner with this simple recipe that combines the richness of salmon with the brightness of dill.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin side down (if they have skin).
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes per pound, or until cooked through.
5. While the salmon is baking, prepare the dill sauce by combining yogurt, chopped dill, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Remove the salmon from the oven and serve with the dill sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes per pound
Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops
Elevate your pork chops game with this easy and delicious recipe, featuring a crispy Parmesan crust and a savory interior. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 pounds)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each pork chop in the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the coated pork chops for 2-3 minutes on each side.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes total
Lobster Mac and Cheese
Elevate the classic mac and cheese to new heights with succulent lobster meat and a rich, creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup lobster meat, cooked and diced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes or until thickened.
5. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Add cooked macaroni and lobster meat to the cheese sauce. Toss until well combined.
7. Transfer mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Lasagna
Roasted Vegetable Lasagna: A flavorful and nutritious twist on the classic Italian dish, featuring a medley of roasted vegetables and creamy lasagna layers.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 large bell pepper, sliced
– 1 large eggplant, sliced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss zucchini, bell pepper, eggplant, onion, and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes.
3. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
4. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Assemble the lasagna by spreading a layer of tomato sauce, followed by roasted vegetables, then ricotta mixture, and finally shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers two more times.
6. Top with crushed tomatoes and sprinkle with chopped basil leaves (if using).
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Filet Mignon with Red Wine Sauce
Elevate your dining experience with this classic Filet Mignon recipe, perfectly paired with a rich Red Wine Sauce.
Filet Mignon with Red Wine Sauce Recipe
Ingredients:
– 4 filet mignon steaks (6 oz each)
– Salt and pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1/2 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp butter
– Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season filets with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear filets for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Transfer to a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked to desired doneness.
4. In the same skillet, add red wine, beef broth, and butter. Bring to a simmer and cook until reduced by half, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve filets with Red Wine Sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Summary: This classic Italian-inspired dish is a flavorful and aromatic seafood delight, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (2 ounces) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Remove from heat, stir in remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and lemon juice.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Rosemary Roasted Lamb Chops
Elevate your dinner game with this aromatic and flavorful recipe that combines the savory taste of lamb with the piney goodness of rosemary. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in, these roasted lamb chops are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lamb chops
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chopped rosemary, and garlic powder.
3. Season the lamb chops with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Place the lamb chops in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the rosemary mixture evenly over both sides of the lamb chops.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Coq au Vin with Buttered Noodles
Experience the rich flavors of France with this hearty dish that combines tender chicken, luscious mushrooms, and creamy buttered noodles. A perfect comfort food for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Burgundy or Côtes du Rhône)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika. Sear in hot oil until browned on both sides, then set aside.
3. Add butter, onion, garlic, and mushrooms to the pot. Cook until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add red wine, broth, and tomato paste. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Return chicken to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven. Simmer for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions. Toss with butter and a pinch of salt.
7. Serve chicken and sauce over buttered noodles.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Grilled Ribeye Steak with Chimichurri
Elevate your grilled steak game with this Argentine-inspired recipe, featuring a rich and tangy chimichurri sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 pounds ribeye steak
– 1 cup fresh parsley leaves and stems
– 1 cup fresh oregano leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Grill steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired level of doneness.
4. Meanwhile, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil in a bowl. Mix well to create chimichurri sauce.
5. Once steak is cooked, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.
6. Serve sliced steak with spoonful of chimichurri sauce on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken Thighs
Elevate your dinner game with this citrusy and aromatic roasted chicken thigh recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal. With the brightness of lemon and pungency of garlic, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the lemon-garlic mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using).
6. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter
This recipe showcases the delicate flavor of scallops paired with a tangy and rich lemon butter sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 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 the scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the preheated pan and let melt.
4. Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden brown crust.
5. Remove the scallops from the pan and set aside.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, garlic, and lemon juice.
7. Simmer the sauce for about 2 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
8. Serve the seared scallops with the warm lemon butter sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes.
Braised Short Ribs with Polenta
This recipe combines fall-off-the-bone tender short ribs with creamy polenta, a perfect combination for a cozy winter evening. The rich flavors and textures will leave you feeling satisfied and warm.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups polenta
– 4 cups water
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season short ribs with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear short ribs until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add red wine, beef broth, and tomato paste. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or until meat is tender.
7. Cook polenta according to package instructions. Serve with short ribs and Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Turkey
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines juicy bell peppers with savory ground turkey and a blend of aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add cooked rice, onion, mushrooms, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey mixture, filling to the top.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb
Elevate your dinner table with this tender and flavorful herb-crusted rack of lamb, perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in. This simple yet impressive dish is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1 1/2 pound) rack of lamb, frenched
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the lamb rack on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Rub the herb mixture all over the lamb, making sure to coat it evenly.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pan-Seared Duck Breast with Cherry Sauce
Pan-Seared Duck Breast with Cherry Sauce Recipe
This succulent duck breast recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. The sweet and tangy cherry sauce pairs beautifully with the crispy skin and tender meat of the duck.
Ingredients:
– 4 duck breasts (6 oz each)
– 1 cup cherries, pitted
– 1/2 cup port wine
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the duck breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the duck breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the duck reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. While the duck is cooking, combine the cherries, port wine, and honey in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil and reduce heat to simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve the pan-seared duck breasts with the cherry sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Truffle Risotto with Wild Mushrooms
Truffle Risotto with Wild Mushrooms Recipe
Elevate your risotto game with this luxurious recipe featuring earthy truffles and rich wild mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed wild mushrooms (e.g., chanterelle, cremini, shiitake), cleaned and sliced
– 2 truffle slices (black or white)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, allowing each portion to be fully absorbed before adding the next.
4. After 20-22 minutes of cooking, stir in truffle slices and wild mushrooms. Cook until mushrooms are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Turkey Breast with Herb Gravy
A flavorful and moist turkey breast roasted to perfection, served with a savory herb gravy that complements its tender flesh.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless turkey breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the turkey breast on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. While the turkey is roasting, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
6. Add chicken broth to the saucepan and stir until smooth.
7. Serve the roasted turkey breast with the herb gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Butter Herb Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your side dish game with these aromatic roasted potatoes, infused with the rich flavors of garlic, butter, and herbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine potatoes, butter, garlic, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss until potatoes are evenly coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange potato wedges in a single layer.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until potatoes are golden brown and tender, flipping halfway through.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these 20 elegant Ina Garten dinner party recipes, perfect for special occasions. From Herb-Roasted Chicken with Lemon and Garlic to Truffle Risotto with Wild Mushrooms, these dishes are sure to delight. Other standouts include Beef Bourguignon with Mashed Potatoes, Lobster Mac and Cheese, and Pan-Seared Duck Breast with Cherry Sauce. With a range of flavors and ingredients, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste.
