Impress your guests with a culinary masterpiece at your next dinner party or special occasion. These 19 flavorful and impressive dinner recipes are sure to wow your audience and leave them asking for more. From elegant beef Wellington to decadent lobster thermidor, these dishes are perfect for making memories that will last long after the meal is over.
Whether you’re hosting a wedding reception, anniversary celebration, or simply want to treat your loved ones to a special night in, these recipes offer something for everyone. And with a range of flavors and cuisines represented, you’re sure to find inspiration for your next big dinner party.
Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb with Red Wine Reduction
Elevate your dinner party with this elegant and flavorful recipe, featuring a tender rack of lamb crusted with fragrant herbs and served with a rich red wine reduction.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 bone) rack of lamb
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1/4 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the lamb, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the lamb on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. While the lamb is cooking, reduce the red wine and beef broth in a saucepan over medium heat until thickened and syrupy (about 10-15 minutes).
6. Let the lamb rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving with the red wine reduction.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on the size of your rack of lamb.
Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Beurre Blanc
Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Beurre Blanc Recipe
A refreshing twist on the classic beurre blanc sauce, this recipe combines succulent scallops with a bright and citrusy lemon flavor.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup (60ml) white wine
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt.
3. Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown.
4. Remove the scallops from the pan and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, garlic, lemon juice, and white wine to the pan.
6. Simmer the sauce for 2-3 minutes or until it thickens slightly.
7. Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve the scallops with the Lemon Beurre Blanc sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Beef Wellington with Mushroom Duxelles
Elevate your dinner game with this classic French dish, featuring tender beef fillet wrapped in puff pastry and savory mushroom duxelles. This show-stopping recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) beef fillet
– 1/4 cup mushroom duxelles (see below for recipe)
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Mushroom Duxelles:
– 1 cup finely chopped mushrooms (such as shiitake or cremini)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the beef fillet with salt, pepper, and flour.
3. Place the mushroom duxelles on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Place the beef fillet on top of the mushroom mixture.
5. Brush the edges of the pastry with beaten egg.
6. Place the other half of the pastry over the beef and press gently to seal.
7. Brush the top of the pastry with beaten egg and cut a few slits in the top for steam to escape.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lobster Thermidor with Gruyère Cheese
Elevate your dining experience with this decadent lobster thermidor recipe, perfectly balanced with the nutty flavor of Gruyère cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds lobster meat
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add flour and whisk until smooth; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and stir in Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
6. In a baking dish, arrange lobster meat in an even layer.
7. Pour the Gruyère cream sauce over the lobster, making sure it’s fully coated.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the lobster is opaque and flaky.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Truffle Risotto with Wild Mushrooms
This rich and earthy risotto is a celebration of the finest ingredients, featuring the deep flavor of truffles paired with the savory taste of wild mushrooms. A perfect dish for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons truffle oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle and cremini), cleaned and sliced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed, stirring occasionally.
5. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in truffle oil, mushrooms, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Duck à l’Orange with Crispy Skin
This classic French dish is a symphony of flavors, with the sweetness of orange sauce perfectly balanced by the savory flavor of duck. This recipe yields tender and juicy duck breast with crispy skin that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 duck breasts (with skin)
– 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup orange juice
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Season the duck breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. In a large skillet, sear the duck skin-side down over medium-high heat until crispy (5-7 minutes). Flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine chicken broth, orange juice, and honey. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Place the duck breasts in a roasting pan and spoon some of the orange sauce over each breast. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Filet Mignon with Blue Cheese Butter
Elevate your dining experience with this rich and savory filet mignon dish, paired with a tangy blue cheese butter that adds an extra layer of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 (6 oz) filets mignon
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons blue cheese crumbles
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season filets with salt and pepper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, blue cheese crumbles, and garlic until well combined.
4. Place the filets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Top each filet with a tablespoon of blue cheese butter, spreading it evenly.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until filets reach desired doneness (medium-rare to medium).
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach and Brie
Elevate your dinner game with this indulgent yet easy-to-make recipe. Succulent chicken breast stuffed with creamy brie, savory spinach, and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup crumbled Brie cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine spinach, butter, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and create a horizontal incision in each breast to form a pocket. Stuff each breast with the spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
4. Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Sprinkle Brie cheese over each breast.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Seared Tuna Steak with Wasabi Aioli
Elevate your dining experience with this bold and refreshing recipe, featuring seared tuna steak served with a creamy wasabi aioli.
Ingredients:
– 4 tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tsp wasabi paste
– 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over high heat.
2. Season the tuna steaks with salt and pepper.
3. Sear the tuna for 1-2 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
4. While the tuna is cooking, mix the mayonnaise, wasabi paste, and lemon juice in a bowl.
5. Serve the seared tuna steak with a dollop of wasabi aioli on top.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes per side for the tuna steaks.
Roasted Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze
Transform your pork tenderloin into a sweet and savory masterpiece with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-1.5 pound) pork tenderloin
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, apple cider, honey, mustard, and thyme.
3. Place the pork tenderloin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the apple cider glaze all over the pork, making sure to coat it evenly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Halibut en Papillote with Summer Vegetables
A classic French technique, halibut en papillote allows the delicate flavor of halibut to shine while tender summer vegetables add a pop of color and freshness. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 halibut fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 large yellow squash, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Line a large piece of parchment paper with olive oil, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
3. Place a halibut fillet in the center of the parchment.
4. Arrange sliced zucchini, squash, and bell pepper around the fish.
5. Sprinkle garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Fold the parchment paper over the ingredients, sealing the edges with a twist tie or by folding the paper under itself.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the halibut is cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Shrimp and Scallop Scampi over Linguine
Experience the bold flavors of Italy with this quick and easy seafood scampi recipe. Succulent shrimp and scallops are sautéed in a garlicky butter sauce, served over al dente linguine.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 6 large scallops, rinsed and patted dry
– 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta cooking liquid before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and scallops; cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through.
4. If using wine, chicken broth, and lemon juice, add to the skillet and stir to combine. Simmer for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. Stir in reserved pasta cooking liquid to create a creamy sauce.
6. Combine cooked linguine with seafood mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Braised Short Ribs with Creamy Polenta
A rich and comforting dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 pounds 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
– 2 cups polenta
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the short ribs with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the short ribs on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add the onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the red wine, beef broth, and tomato paste to the pot. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
6. Return the short ribs to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2 1/2 hours, or until the meat is tender.
7. Cook the polenta according to package instructions. Stir in heavy cream to create a creamy consistency.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours (plus time to prepare polenta)
Eggplant Parmesan with Fresh Mozzarella
A classic Italian-American dish that combines the tender sweetness of eggplant with the creaminess of fresh mozzarella.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip eggplant slices in the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Dip floured eggplant slices in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry breaded eggplant slices until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Transfer fried eggplant to a baking dish. Top each slice with a spoonful of marinara sauce and a slice of mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Pomegranate-Glazed Salmon with Farro Salad
This sweet and savory dish combines the rich flavors of pomegranate and honey-glazed salmon with a nutty farro salad, perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
For the Glaze:
– 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Farro Salad:
– 1 cup cooked farro
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pomegranate juice, honey, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the glaze evenly over both fillets.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook farro according to package instructions. Mix with parsley, feta cheese (if using), lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve glazed salmon atop the farro salad.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Whole Branzino with Herb Butter
Experience the simplicity and elegance of this Mediterranean-inspired dish, perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole Branzino (European sea bass), gutted and scaled (about 2 lbs)
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the Branzino under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff the herb butter inside the fish cavity.
5. Place the Branzino on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, breast side up.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint Pesto
Elevate your grilling game with this refreshing and flavorful recipe, perfect for a warm evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb chops (1 inch thick)
– 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a food processor, combine mint leaves, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Process until smooth pesto forms.
3. Season lamb chops with salt and pepper.
4. Grill lamb chops for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Brush lamb chops with mint pesto during the last minute of grilling.
6. Let lamb chops rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Wild Mushroom and Goat Cheese Tart
Elevate your tart game with this earthy combination of wild mushrooms and creamy goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, oyster, and cremini), sliced
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Arrange mushroom mixture on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch (1 cm) border around edges.
5. Sprinkle goat cheese over mushrooms.
6. Fold other half of pastry over filling; press edges to seal.
7. Brush pastry with a little water and make a few small slits in top to allow steam to escape.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Crab-Stuffed Avocados
Elevate your snack game with this creative twist on traditional guacamole. Succulent crab meat, spicy kick, and creamy avocado come together in a harmonious flavor combination.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half lengthwise and remove the pit.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crab meat, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Stuff each avocado half with about 1/4 cup of the crab mixture.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a quick and easy snack that’s ready in minutes.
Summary
Impress your guests with these 19 flavorful dinner recipes perfect for special occasions. From herb-crusted rack of lamb to lobster thermidor, beef wellington to roasted pork tenderloin, and everything in between, this collection has something for everyone. These impressive dishes are sure to impress your friends and family, whether it’s a holiday feast or a birthday celebration. With ingredients like truffles, wild mushrooms, and blue cheese, these recipes will elevate your cooking game and leave your guests wanting more.
