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    Home / Roundups

    21 Perfectly Portioned Dinners for Two That Are Shockingly Simple

    By Lisa MarcAurele · Oct 23, 2024 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    When it comes to cooking for two, simplicity is key, especially after a long day. I love the idea of perfectly portioned dinners that make mealtime feel special without the hassle. These shockingly simple recipes are not only delicious but also designed to fit seamlessly into your busy life, making dinner an enjoyable experience rather than a chore.

    Plate of slow cooked pork chops served over white rice, garnished with green onions.
    Slow Cooker Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

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    Crock Pot Chili for Two

    Crock Pot Chili served in two white bowls with spoon.
    Crock Pot Chili for Two. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This comforting chili is the ideal meal for two, letting you enjoy a hearty dish with minimal effort. Just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker, and let it do the work for you. It’s packed with flavor and makes for a cozy dinner, especially on a chilly evening. Plus, it’s a great way to warm up and bond over a shared meal. Simple preparation makes this chili a go-to option for couples.
    Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Chili for Two

    Air Fryer Cornish Hen

    Air fryer Cornish hen on a white plate with lemon wedges.
    Air Fryer Cornish Hen. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This air fryer cornish hen is a surprisingly easy dish to prepare, bringing an elegant touch to dinner for two. With a cooking time of about 45 minutes, you can enjoy perfectly cooked hen with crispy skin and juicy meat. It’s a great way to make any weeknight feel a little more special. Share this delightful meal and enjoy the flavors together. This recipe highlights how simple meals can feel fancy.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cornish Hen

    Grilled Shrimp Skewers

    Grilled shrimp skewers with red and green bell peppers, served with lemon wedges and a dipping sauce on a white plate.
    Grilled Shrimp Skewers. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These grilled shrimp skewers are an effortless way to enjoy a light and flavorful dinner for two. They cook up quickly in about 15 minutes and are perfect for a summer evening. Season them to your liking for a delicious meal that doesn't require much prep time. Enjoying these skewers is a simple way to bring a taste of the grill to your table. They make for a perfect light dinner option that’s packed with flavor.
    Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Skewers

    Chicken Divan

    A casserole dish with cheese and broccoli on a napkin.
    Chicken Divan. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This creamy chicken divan is a comforting casserole that’s easy to prepare and perfect for two. In just under an hour, you can serve up tender chicken and broccoli in a rich sauce topped with cheese. It’s a warm and filling dish that’s ideal for cozy evenings. This recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a classic favorite without complicated steps. It’s perfect for couples looking for a quick, hearty meal.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Divan

    Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

    Close-up of an air-fried barbecued rib with charred edges over a white plate.
    Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These air fryer baby back ribs are shockingly simple and bring the flavor of barbecue to your home. They cook up tender and juicy in about 30 minutes, making them an easy option for dinner. You can enjoy finger-licking goodness without the hassle of grilling. Perfect for a fun and casual dinner, they’re sure to impress. Treat yourselves to a delicious meal that’s surprisingly quick to prepare.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

    Popcorn Chicken

    A bowl of golden brown popcorn chicken on a table.
    Popcorn Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Popcorn chicken is a fun and easy meal that’s great for two. This recipe allows you to enjoy crispy, bite-sized pieces of chicken in about 30 minutes. It's perfect for sharing and can be paired with your favorite dipping sauces. This dish brings comfort food to your dinner table without much effort. It’s a fantastic option for a casual night in.
    Get the Recipe: Popcorn Chicken

    Shrimp and Tomato Pasta

    A bowl of pasta with shrimp and tomatoes.
    Shrimp and Tomato Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This shrimp and tomato pasta is a quick and satisfying meal for two. In about 30 minutes, you can serve a flavorful dish that combines fresh tomatoes and succulent shrimp. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy seafood with minimal preparation. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special without the hassle. Enjoy this comforting pasta together and share a lovely evening.
    Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Tomato Pasta

    Slow Cooker Pork Chops

    Slow cooker pork chops with rice and sauce on a plate.
    Slow Cooker Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These slow cooker pork chops are a hassle-free way to enjoy a hearty dinner for two. Just set it up and let the slow cooker do the work, resulting in tender, juicy chops in about 6 hours. The rich flavors develop beautifully over time, making it a comforting choice. This dish is perfect for busy days when you want to come home to a warm meal. Enjoy a cozy dinner that feels special with minimal effort.
    Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Chops

    Shrimp Macaroni Salad

    Shrimp macaroni salad in a pink bowl with lemon wedges.
    Shrimp Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This shrimp macaroni salad is an easy, satisfying option for a light dinner for two. With a prep time of just 15 minutes, it’s a breeze to put together. Packed with shrimp and creamy dressing, this dish makes for a refreshing meal. It’s perfect for warm evenings when you want something simple and flavorful. Enjoy this delightful salad with your partner for a casual dinner at home.
    Get the Recipe: Shrimp Macaroni Salad

    Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

    A bowl of rice and chicken in front of a crockpot.
    Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This sweet Hawaiian crockpot chicken is a simple way to enjoy a flavorful meal for two. Just toss everything in the slow cooker, and let it do the work while you relax. In about 6 hours, you’ll have a tender chicken dish that pairs wonderfully with rice or veggies. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a warm, satisfying dinner waiting for you. Share this delightful meal and enjoy the flavors together.
    Get the Recipe: Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

    Shrimp Scampi

    A plate with shrimp and bread on it.
    Shrimp Scampi. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Shrimp scampi is a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for two. In just 20 minutes, you can enjoy succulent shrimp in a garlic butter sauce served over pasta. This recipe allows you to impress your partner without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a wonderful choice for a romantic dinner at home. Enjoy this flavorful meal and create a lovely evening together.
    Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

    Chinese Black Pepper Chicken

    Bowl of black pepper chicken with chop sticks.
    Chinese Black Pepper Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This black pepper chicken is an easy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner for two. It cooks up in about 30 minutes, offering a satisfying meal without complicated steps. The savory sauce adds a delicious kick, making it a delightful choice for a busy night. Enjoy this restaurant-style dish at home and savor the flavors together. It’s a great way to spice up your weeknight dinners.
    Get the Recipe: Chinese Black Pepper Chicken

    Steak Pizzaiola

    Fried steak topped with a chunky tomato and basil sauce, served on a white plate.
    Steak Pizzaiola. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Steak pizzaiola is a simple yet impressive dish for a dinner for two. In about 30 minutes, you can serve tender steak simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce. It’s a comforting meal that feels special without requiring a lot of work. Perfect for a cozy night in, this dish is sure to please. Enjoy the rich flavors and warmth of this easy recipe together.
    Get the Recipe: Steak Pizzaiola

    Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

    Meatloaf on a white plate with a fork.
    Cracker Barrel Meatloaf. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This meatloaf brings the comforting flavors of home cooking to your table in a simple way. In about an hour, you can enjoy a hearty meal for two that’s both easy to make and full of flavor. The classic taste of this dish makes it perfect for a cozy night in. It’s a wonderful choice for couples looking to enjoy a classic favorite together. Serve with your choice of sides for a comforting dinner experience.
    Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

    Vegan Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

    Sweet potato stuffed with black beans and corn.
    Vegan Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These taco stuffed sweet potatoes offer a simple and wholesome dinner for two. With a prep time of about 10 minutes, they’re easy to whip up for a weeknight meal. The sweet potatoes serve as a tasty base for your favorite toppings, creating a filling dish. It’s a delightful way to enjoy a healthy and hearty meal together. This recipe showcases how easy it can be to create a nourishing dinner at home.
    Get the Recipe: Vegan Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

    Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

    A bowl of shrimp pasta with lemon and parsley.
    Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This garlic butter shrimp pasta is a quick and easy meal that’s great for two. In about 20 minutes, you can serve up a flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp with pasta. It’s an effortless way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. Share this delightful dinner with your partner and enjoy the rich flavors together. This recipe is a perfect choice for busy evenings when you want something special.
    Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

    Slow Cooker Beef Tips

    A spoon holding chunks of beef in a rich, brown stew garnished with small pieces of green herbs.
    Slow Cooker Beef Tips. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These slow cooker beef tips are a simple way to enjoy a hearty meal for two. With minimal prep, you can let the slow cooker do the work and come home to a comforting dinner. The beef becomes tender and flavorful after a few hours, making it an ideal choice for busy days. This recipe showcases how easy it can be to create a filling dinner without much fuss. Enjoy this warm and satisfying dish together.
    Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef Tips

    Oven Baked Pork Steaks

    Oven baked pork steak on a plate with green beans and a fork on the side.
    Oven Baked Pork Steaks. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These oven-baked pork steaks are a straightforward dinner option for two. They cook up nicely in about 30 minutes, making it easy to enjoy a hearty meal with minimal effort. Perfectly seasoned and tender, they offer a comforting dining experience without complicated steps. This recipe is great for those looking for a quick and satisfying dinner. Share this dish and enjoy a lovely evening together.
    Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Pork Steaks

    Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

    Fried chicken tenders on a plate with dipping sauce.
    Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These air fryer chicken tenders are an easy and fun meal that’s perfect for two. In just 20 minutes, you can enjoy crispy, tender chicken without the hassle of frying. They’re a great choice for a casual dinner and can be paired with your favorite dipping sauces. This recipe offers a familiar comfort food experience without much effort. Enjoy this simple meal together and create a relaxed dining atmosphere.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

    Carne Asada in the Oven

    Slices of baked carne asada on small wood cutting board.
    Carne Asada in the Oven. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This oven-baked carne asada is a simple yet flavorful dish for a cozy dinner for two. In about 30 minutes, you can enjoy tender, marinated steak that’s perfect for serving with your favorite sides. This recipe showcases how easy it can be to create a restaurant-quality meal at home. Share this delightful dinner and enjoy the bold flavors together. It’s an excellent option for those looking for a quick and tasty evening.
    Get the Recipe: Carne Asada in the Oven

    Beef Quesadillas

    A stack of quesadillas filled with cheese and steak served with a side of red salsa on a white plate.
    Beef Quesadillas. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These beef quesadillas are an easy and satisfying option for a quick dinner for two. They come together in just 20 minutes, making them perfect for busy nights. With gooey cheese and flavorful beef, they’re sure to please. Enjoy them with your favorite toppings for a fun and casual meal. This recipe is great for a laid-back evening spent together.
    Get the Recipe: Beef Quesadillas

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    About Lisa MarcAurele

    Lisa MarcAurele is a blogger and cookbook author. She created Little Bit Recipes to help people save money by minimizing leftovers when cooking for one or two people. Lisa is also a co-founder of Daily Life Travels, where you can discover new places to visit and things to do. You can sign up for her recipe emails to see all her latest content.

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    Hi, I'm Lisa! I'm a cookbook author who has been creating recipes for over a decade. I'd like to show you how easy it is to downsize your cooking for one or two people.

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