In a world where everything just feels too dang expensive lately, planning an elaborate date night out at a swanky restaurant might not be in the cards for Valentine’s Day this year (especially if you’d have to pay a sitter, too). Or maybe you just prefer staying in with your partner so you can cook together and cozy up. Either way, these delicious at-home Valentine’s Day dinner ideas will give you all the wow factor of a restaurant dish in the comfort of your own home.
Cooking dinner together — especially a recipe that’s a little extra special and takes some time — is a fun way to connect and try something new before sitting down to eat. Any of these at-home Valentine’s dinner ideas would be perfect to prep as a duo, or to make solo and surprise your sweetheart with some seriously impressive eats. Imagine them walking in to see the table with a few candles lit, two plates of mushroom risotto or braised short ribs, and two glasses of their favorite red wine. Yeah, they’ll swoon alright.
Hold onto that image. Now, here are 19 recipe ideas to use for your very own at-home Valentine’s Day dinner, from hearty entrees and pastas to lighter fare and sides.
So, what will you serve your sweetheart for V-Day dinner this year? Don’t forget to keep some thought-provoking questions top of mind for your dinnertime convo.
