Celebrate Love with These Easy But Impressive Valentine's Day Dinner Ideas

As Fanny Farmer once said, the way to a person's heart is through their stomach. So if you're trying to treat your loved one to a special meal, why would you let strangers feed them? Instead of agonizing over dining at a restaurant this Valentine’s Day (especially in the middle of a pandemic), we recommend cueing up a rom-com on Netflix, gussying up the place with some V-Day decorations, and treating your partner to a romantic dinner for two at home instead.

We've got plenty of easy-but-impressive dishes to help. These recipes will make any night even more special. (We're imagining you don't whip up homemade potato gnocchi with pork ragù just any old weeknight!) And with a list that includes pork, chicken, steak, fish, and even elegant vegetarian dinner ideas, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you’re looking for something extravagant, like the beef tenderloin with roasted cauliflower, or something more casual, like the creamy shrimp and grits, there are dishes that will suit any date night vibe. Of course, there are several options for steaks, including herb and garlic crusted flank steak and a strip steak served with lemon mashed potatoes. While these meals are guaranteed to be satisfying, be sure to save room for a few Valentine’s Day desserts, Valentine's Day treats, and Valentine's Day cocktails too. Make this February 14 stand out from the rest by showing your other half how much they mean to you with a Valentine's Day dinner made from the heart.

There's a reason steak is a classic love food: It's rich, flavorful, and satisfying. This recipe makes the most of a good cut, and lets you cook a classic steakhouse side dish in the same pan.

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SHOP CAST IRON SKILLETS

Pair this classic fancy Spanish dish with a flinty wine like Sauvignon blanc, or a dry rosé.

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SHOP CAST IRON SKILLETS

Impressively elegant, but oh-so-simple, this dish cooks up in under an hour. Pair it with horseradish mashed potatoes for a lovely, simple meal.

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SHOP SHEET PANS

Got a special someone with cowboy-sized appetites? Serve them a fancy, bone-in grilled ribeye.

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SHOP INDOOR GRILLS

This is no ordinary spaghetti night dish. The canned pumpkin and heavy cream give this pasta dish a smooth, unbeatable richness, and the pine nuts and sage add a burst of flavor.

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SHOP SAUTÉ PANS

As this rich stew simmers it will make the whole house smell amazing. Serve it with a good crusty baguette.

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SHOP DUTCH OVENS

This lovely shrimp-and-couscous dish gets a huge burst of flavor from the floral combination of thyme, rosemary, tarragon, and lavender.

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SHOP COPPER COOKWARE

Make these potato gnocchi from scratch for an extra-special addition to your Valentine's Day dinner.

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SHOP BAKING SHEETS

These chops are delicious — and special-occasion worthy. But they also cook quickly, meaning less time in the kitchen, and more time with your partner.

Get the recipe from Beautiful Eats & Things.

This light, fast salmon dinner for two goes from weeknight-worthy to "wow what's in that?" thanks to a deliciously sweet peach glaze.

Get the recipe at Marisa Moore.

There's something stirring (get it?) about risotto. This version is bright, tasty, and incredibly comforting — the qualities you'd want in a special someone!

Get the recipe at Sweet Tea and Thyme.

There's a good reason why steak is such a classic dinner for two—it's unbeatable! The lemon and pea mashed potatoes take this beloved side to the next level too.

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SHOP SKILLETS

The white wine, crème fraîche, and Dijon mustard sauce are real standouts in this dish.

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SHOP SKILLETS

February 14 is a day to treat yourself, and this creamy, spicy shrimp and grits is a great way to indulge in one of your favorite comfort foods.

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SHOP SKILLETS

We'll take anything that's wrapped in prosciutto, but this pork tenderloin sounds out-of-this-world delicious.

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SHOP SKILLETS

Indulge in these tender, sweet pork chops that'll pair perfectly with some creamy mashed potatoes and roasted green beans.

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SHOP SKILLETS

These lamb chops are tender and flavorful thanks to the mint, feta, and onion relish spooned over the top.

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SHOP SKILLETS

Your kitchen will be filled with the most wonderful aromas while cooking these juicy chicken thighs.

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SHOP SKILLETS

While this polenta dish is full of veggies, you won't even realize that it's good for you because of its rich creaminess.

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SHOP SKILLETS

A cedar plank gives this grilled salmon sweet and savory flavors.

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SHOP CEDAR PLANKS

You just can't go wrong with this cheesy pasta.

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SHOP PASTA COOK POTS

Finish off this plate with a refreshing blend of roasted pepitas, fresh mint, and chopped garlic.

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SHOP SKILLETS

Chopped pecans give this loaded skillet a tasty crunch.

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SHOP SKILLETS

Panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese combine for the absolute best breading on this chicken dish.

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SHOP SKILLETS

Take a break from all the chocolate with this healthy and tasty home-cooked meal.

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SHOP SKILLETS

Topped with croutons, pomegranate seeds, and chives, this creamy bisque is easy to make and sure to please.

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SHOP SKILLETS

For the juiciest, most flavorful poultry, rub butter and herbs under the chicken's skin before cooking.

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SHOP ROASTING RACKS

Packed with delicious vegetables and pesto, this easy pasta dish can be ready in under half an hour.

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SHOP FOOD PROCESSORS

Make like Lady and the Tramp over a big bowl of linguini.

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SHOP SKILLETS

This savory, protein-packed dish is perfect for a romantic meal at home, especially on a chilly winter evening. Simple and quick to throw together, the stew can cook all day so it's ready when you and your sweetheart are.

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SHOP SLOW COOKERS

Make this flavorful roast cod for Valentine's Day, and use the leftovers for Codfish Cakes on February 15.

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SHOP BAKING SHEETS

This quick and easy flank steak recipe gets an added burst of sweetness from cooked grapes.

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SHOP SKILLETS

Want to spice up an old favorite? This honey-soy glazed salmon is delectable and pairs perfectly with fresh veggies.

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Luscious strawberries and creamy avocado mingle in a honeyed lemon dressing to create this simple and elegant salad. Try tossing some raspberries in there, too!

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This light and refreshing dinner that is perfect for a simple, romantic meal.

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Let the gentle heat from the oven thicken the sauce and slowly cook the pork into tender shreds in this indulgent dish.

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No need to make fresh pasta for these silky ricotta-pumpkin cannelloni—oven-ready lasagna sheets work just fine.

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If you're both fans of brisket and Mexican fare, then this is the perfect Valentine's dinner for you.

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When using vibrant spices such as cloves, bay leaves, and peppercorns in dishes, keep in mind that a little goes a long way — as in this delightful pork tenderloin.

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This juicy beef tenderloin is brightened by a tangy cauliflower-pomegranate salad that is sure to satisfy.

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This flavorful cream soup, garnished with shrimp, makes a good introduction to any meal.

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You only need five ingredients (plus salt and pepper) for this Italian meal for two.

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When fresh herbs are out of season, aromatic dried herbs and spices add intense flavor and complexity to dishes.

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Rib-eye steak's primary attribute is its juicy flavor, making it great for grilling. The marinade takes just minutes to prepare but adds a lot of flavor.

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Quick homemade biscuits top this turkey cobbler, which owes some of its smoky flavor to chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.

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Sweet and salty flavors combine to glaze this melt-in-your-mouth salmon fillet.

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Rich Gruyère cheese and caramelized onions top this flaky pastry.

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Free-range roast pork shoulder is stuffed with dried cherries, figs, apricots and herbs.

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This elegant casserole was inspired by the tuna-noodle childhood favorite. It can be baked in individual casseroles or in one large dish and served buffet style.

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This spiced-up version of an old favorite is ready to serve in less than an hour.

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Transform mashed potatoes into an elegant side by presenting them in ramekins.

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Anjou pears add a sweetness to this savory lager-beer braised pork chop dinner.

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These mini soufflé dishes are elegant, light, and intimate.

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Lobster-anything is always a treat, so go ahead and make these delicious raviolis for a special Valentine's Day meal.

Get the recipe at Half Baked Harvest.

SHOP PASTA MAKERS

Serve up a rich, indulgent meal that won't leave you feeling overly full afterwards.

Get the recipe at Creme de la Crumb.

SHOP SKILLETS

The bold flavors in this pesto dish are just what your date night needs to make dinner extra special.

Get the recipe at Ambitious Kitchen.

SHOP PASTA BOWLS

Make a classic dinner-for-two meal with this chicken cordon bleu that can be prepared and cooked in a half hour.

Get the recipe at Cooking Classy.

SHOP SKILLETS

Pair this rich pasta with a bottle of red wine you've been saving for a special occasion, and treat yourselves this Valentine's Day.

Get the recipe at Half Baked Harvest.

SHOP PASTA BOWLS

These juicy pork chops are simply seasoned but oh so delicious.

Get the recipe at Gimme Some Oven.

This blogger writes her marinade makes any steak "melt-in-your-mouth delicious."

Get the recipe at The Recipe Critic.

Every bite of this pasta is bursting with fresh seafood flavor.

Get the recipe at Cooking Classy.

This mouthwatering tenderloin is stuffed with spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese.

Get the recipe at Dinner at the Zoo.

Your valentine will love this decadent dish that's finished with a white wine dijon sauce.

Get the recipe at The Cookie Rookie.

Creamy pasta, mushrooms, and "engagement" chicken are a winning combination, whether you're waiting on that magic question or long married.

Get the recipe at Dessert for Two.

A heavenly combination of spinach, goat cheese, and cream sauce makes this dish a sure hit.

Get the recipe at The Organic Kitchen.

SHOP BAKING SHEETS

Sautéed mushrooms and a savory sauce make this seared crust of filet mignon taste oh-so-good.

Get the recipe at Healthy Seasonal Recipes.

Maple syrup and chicken juice soak into the roasted vegetables below, making this dish a truly unique flavor experience.

Get the recipe at Chocolate Moosey.

Also known as "Eggs in Purgatory," this dish incorporates Israeli couscous instead of bread and will certainly add spice to your romantic evening.

Get the recipe at Dessert for Two.

Kick your spaghetti up a notch with a dish that is quick, easy, and full of flavor.

Get the recipe at Rock Recipes.

The lovely aroma of white wine and garlic will float around your home while making this fancy feast.

Get the recipe at Pinch of Yum.

This recipe takes the classic combination to a new level for your next date night.

Get the recipe at The Candid Appetite.

If you're planning a multi-course meal for your significant other, let the night begin with these tasty mussels, which can be prepared in advance and baked when ready for just 15 minutes.

Get the recipe at Rock Recipes.

Creamy crab filling and lemon butter drizzle combined with the white fish of your choice (flounder, tilapia, etc.) create a gourmet meal that is both healthy and quick to make.

Get the recipe at Bam's Kitchen.

Enjoy a glass of wine and take turns stirring the risotto with your loved one for a meal that's simple but special.

Get the recipe at The Kitchn.

Puff pastry covers filet mignon and a thin layer of mushroom ragout in this elegant meal for two.

Get the recipe at Joanie Simon.