These 40 cheap and easy dinner ideas for two are perfect for impressing your dinner date without breaking the bank. From take-out favorites to date-night classics to comfort foods, there are plenty of options to choose from. Recipes for Indian butter chickpeas, homemade pizza, and chicken fried rice are included, along with tips for nailing dishes you order on repeat without all the fees.
When in doubt, comfort food is always a good option. Many classic comfort food dishes rely on affordable ingredients like beans, canned tuna, and chicken thighs. Sloppy Joes, for example, can be elevated for date night with recipes like Sloppy Joe orzo. Other comfort food options include classic chili, creamy Tuscan white bean skillet, and Greek chicken.
Arroz con pollo is a perfect weeknight dinner that doesn’t taste like a one-pot meal. It’s easy to make and makes incredible leftovers. Vodka meatballs with creamy vodka sauce are a simple and hearty dinner option. Chicken Parm-stuffed peppers combine the flavors of classic chicken Parmesan into a two-in-one dinner.
Other dinner ideas include beef and broccoli, mozzarella schnitzel, shrimp and grits, and chicken fajitas. BBQ sheet-pan chicken, homemade pizza, and Greek chicken offer simple yet satisfying options for weeknight dinners. Cacio e pepe, creamy Tuscan white bean skillet, and sesame tofu & broccoli are vegetarian-friendly dishes that are sure to please.
One-pan tuna pasta, chili cheese sweet potato casserole, and sloppy Joe orzo offer unique twists on classic favorites. Mini mushroom pasta bakes provide a creamy, cheesy sauce with crispy bread crumbs and hearty mushrooms. Salmon & potato skillet and egg roll bowls offer delicious and filling meal options that can be customized every time you make them.
