Dinner for one can be just as satisfying and delicious as dinner for a crowd. With a little creativity, you can whip up a quick and easy meal that’s all your own. In this article, we’ll share 20 mouth-watering dinner recipes perfect for solo meals or intimate gatherings. From savory steak dishes to flavorful pasta bowls, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
From classic comfort foods like garlic butter steak with asparagus and one-pan lemon herb chicken and potatoes, to innovative twists like caprese stuffed avocado and cheesy taco-stuffed bell peppers, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a busy professional or a stay-at-home chef, these recipes are designed to be quick, easy, and satisfying.
Garlic Butter Steak with Asparagus
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the rich flavors of garlic butter steak with the tender crunch of asparagus. Perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs ribeye or strip loin steak
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter and minced garlic.
3. Season steak with salt and pepper.
4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic butter mixture and let it melt. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Transfer the steak to the oven and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, toss asparagus with salt and pepper. Add to the skillet used for the steak and sauté over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
7. Serve steak with asparagus and lemon wedges (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Potatoes
This recipe is a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. With only one pan to clean, it’s also a great option for busy households.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the potatoes, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Caprese Stuffed Avocado
This refreshing twist on the classic Caprese salad turns avocados into a creamy vessel filled with the flavors of Italy. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a delightful and healthy snack in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. Scoop out a portion of the avocado flesh to create room for filling.
3. Place a spoonful of diced tomato, followed by a slice of mozzarella cheese, into each avocado half.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Enjoy your Caprese Stuffed Avocado!
Easy Shrimp Scampi Pasta
A classic Italian-inspired dish that’s quick to make and packed with flavor! This recipe combines succulent shrimp, garlic butter, and linguine pasta for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
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 the skillet and set aside. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and simmer for 1 minute.
5. Add reserved pasta water and stir to combine.
6. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss with garlic butter sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, topped with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Microwave Egg Fried Rice
This microwave-friendly recipe yields a flavorful and savory egg fried rice dish that’s perfect for a busy day. With just a few ingredients and minutes of cooking time, you can have a satisfying meal ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Crack the egg into a microwave-safe bowl and whisk it lightly.
2. Microwave the egg on high for 30-45 seconds or until cooked through.
3. In a separate microwave-safe bowl, combine cooked rice, vegetable oil, diced onion, minced garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
4. Mix well to combine.
5. Place the bowl with the rice mixture in the microwave and cook on high for 1 minute and 15 seconds or until the rice is heated through and slightly toasted.
6. Remove from microwave and gently stir in the cooked egg.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 minutes and 30 seconds
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and impressive main course that combines the best of Mediterranean cuisine with a hint of elegance. This recipe yields tender, juicy chicken breasts packed with creamy spinach and tangy feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach-feta mixture.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Quick Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Get ready for a flavorful and healthy meal with this rapid-fire stir-fry recipe! With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying a delicious beef and broccoli dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the broccoli and garlic; cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return the beef to the pan and stir in the soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons
This creamy tomato soup is elevated by the addition of crispy grilled cheese croutons, adding a satisfying crunch to each spoonful.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, and dried basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Meanwhile, preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Butter one side of each bread slice, then place on the grill and cook until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Once the croutons are cooked, sprinkle shredded cheese on top and let melt slightly.
6. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a grilled cheese crouton.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Single-Serve Margherita Pizza
Enjoy a mini version of Italy’s classic favorite with this simple recipe. Perfect for a solo snack or appetizer, this single-serve margherita pizza is ready in just 5 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 whole-wheat English muffin or small pita bread
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 slices fresh mozzarella cheese (about 1 ounce each)
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Brush the English muffin or pita bread with olive oil.
3. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the bread, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Place the mozzarella slices on top of the sauce.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon with Green Beans
A flavorful and healthy seafood dish that combines the richness of butter and garlic with the brightness of lemon, all wrapped up in a tender salmon fillet. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, garlic, and butter.
5. Spread the mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.
6. Roast in the oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Toss green beans with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Steamed green beans for 4-6 minutes or until tender.
9. Serve salmon with green beans and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Taco Stuffed Bell Pepper
Transform bell peppers into a flavorful and filling meal with this easy recipe. A twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this dish combines the comfort of tacos with the sweetness of roasted bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
– 1/2 cup cooked taco seasoning
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cooking spray or 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 beef or turkey until browned, breaking into small pieces.
4. Add taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture and top with shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender and filling is heated through.
7. Sprinkle with cilantro before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
This classic Italian dish combines the flavors of creamy pesto sauce with sweet cherry tomatoes, all tossed together with al dente pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto sauce (or store-bought)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
3. Stir in the pesto sauce and cook for an additional minute.
4. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the tomato and pesto mixture. Toss everything together until well combined.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl
In just a few minutes, you can create a delicious and healthy bowl filled with flavorful teriyaki chicken, crunchy vegetables, and creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, and lettuce)
– 1 cup sliced red bell peppers
– 1 cup sliced carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 2 tbsp sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce and 1 tablespoon water.
3. Place chicken breasts in the bowl and brush with the teriyaki mixture.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toss mixed greens, bell peppers, carrots, and green onions in a separate bowl.
6. Slice cooked chicken into strips.
7. Assemble bowls by placing chicken on top of vegetable mix, drizzle with remaining teriyaki sauce, and sprinkle sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta
This recipe is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. It’s made with simple ingredients, but packed with flavor from the sautéed mushrooms and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown.
4. Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and butter. Stir to combine.
5. Add cooked pasta and reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Avocado and Black Bean Quesadilla
A flavorful and nutritious twist on the classic quesadilla, this recipe combines creamy avocado with hearty black beans for a deliciously filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large tortillas
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together mashed avocado and cooked black beans.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with cheese (if using).
4. Spoon the avocado-black bean mixture onto half of the tortilla.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is lightly browned and the filling is heated through.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the other side is also lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Baked Parmesan Crusted Tilapia
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the tender goodness of tilapia with the richness of parmesan cheese and crispy breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Drizzle olive oil on each tilapia fillet, then sprinkle with minced garlic.
4. Coat each fillet with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through and flaky.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot with your favorite sides!
Spicy Peanut Noodles with Veggies
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional noodles, this recipe combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the crunch of fresh veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked noodles (such as rice noodles or soba)
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1/4 cup chopped bell peppers
– 1/4 cup sliced carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped peanuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Blend until smooth.
3. Heat the mixture in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add bell peppers, carrots, and scallions to the wok. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until veggies are tender-crisp.
5. Add cooked noodles to the wok and stir-fry for another minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped peanuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Simple Ham and Cheese Omelette
Start your day with a classic and satisfying breakfast – this simple ham and cheese omelette is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 slice of ham (about 1 inch thick)
– 1 slice of cheddar cheese (about 1 inch thick)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Heat the butter in a small non-stick pan over medium heat.
3. Pour the egg mixture into the pan and let it cook for about 30 seconds, until the edges start to set.
4. Place the ham and cheese slice on one half of the omelette.
5. Use a spatula to gently lift the edge of the omelette and tilt the pan so the uncooked egg can flow underneath.
6. Once the eggs are almost set, use the spatula to fold the other half of the omelette over the filling.
7. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, until the cheese is melted and the eggs are fully cooked.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Wrap
Fresh and flavorful, this Greek yogurt chicken salad wrap is a perfect combination of tangy and savory.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 large flour tortilla
– Lettuce leaves, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the diced chicken breast to the yogurt mixture and stir until combined.
3. Stir in chopped cucumber and sliced red bell pepper.
4. Spoon the chicken salad onto the center of the tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese and lettuce leaves.
6. Fold the bottom edge up over the filling, then fold in sides and roll into a neat wrap.
Cooking Time: None! Assemble and serve immediately.
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles
This recipe combines succulent shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce, served atop zucchini noodles for a nutritious and delicious meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 medium zucchini
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the butter and cook until melted.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, spiralize the zucchini into noodles.
5. Serve the shrimp atop the zucchini noodles, spooning some of the garlic butter sauce over the top.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 quick and easy dinner recipes that are perfect for a single serving. From classic comfort food to international flavors, these mouth-watering dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Highlights include Garlic Butter Steak with Asparagus, One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Potatoes, and Caprese Stuffed Avocado. Other standout options include Microwave Egg Fried Rice, Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken Breast, and Cheesy Taco Stuffed Bell Pepper. Whether you’re cooking for one or looking to impress a guest, these recipes are sure to please.
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