As the weekend winds down, there’s nothing quite like gathering friends and family around the dinner table to share a delicious meal. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a more formal affair, having a few go-to recipes up your sleeve can make all the difference in creating a memorable evening. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering Saturday night recipes that are sure to impress your guests and satisfy their appetites. From classic comfort foods to international flavors and decadent desserts, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Stay tuned for our top picks and get ready to cook up a storm!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
Savor the flavors of Italy with this mouthwatering Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi, perfect for a quick and delicious seafood dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (2/3 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, juiced
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, lemon juice, and parsley. Stir until melted and combined.
6. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss with the garlic butter sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Classic Beef Bourguignon
This hearty French stew is a rich and flavorful blend of tender beef, mushrooms, onions, and red wine. A classic dish that’s perfect for special occasions or cozy weeknights.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup red wine (Burgundy or similar)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 thyme sprig
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef, then set aside.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
4. Add red wine, broth, tomato paste, bay leaf, and thyme. Stir to combine.
5. Return the beef to the pot, cover, and simmer for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Spicy Honey Glazed Chicken Wings
Elevate your snack game with these sticky and savory wings that combine the sweetness of honey with a kick of heat.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, hot sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken wings to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Remove the wings from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Bake the wings for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Increase oven temperature to broil (high). Return the wings to the baking sheet and broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until caramelized.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Truffle Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the luxurious addition of truffles! This creamy, cheesy dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 tsp truffle oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth. Add truffle oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Grilled Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
Elevate your grilled steak game with this classic Argentinean-inspired recipe, featuring a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 1/2 cup freshly chopped parsley
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped oregano
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season steak with salt and pepper.
3. Grill steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until desired level of doneness is reached.
4. Meanwhile, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil in a bowl.
5. Stir well to combine.
6. Once steak is cooked, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.
7. Serve with chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Vegetable Lasagna with Pesto
This classic Italian dish gets a flavorful twist with the addition of pesto, adding an aromatic and herby note to the rich vegetable filling. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing main course.
Ingredients:
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions)
– 1 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté mixed vegetables until tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, pesto sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
5. Assemble the lasagna by spreading a layer of pasta sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by a layer of noodles, then the vegetable mixture, and finally the cheese mixture.
6. Repeat layers two more times, finishing with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pan-Seared Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with this vibrant and flavorful dish, featuring succulent pan-seared salmon paired with a bright and tangy lemon dill sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped dill
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Add olive oil to the preheated pan, then place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if they have skin).
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, chopped dill, garlic, and Dijon mustard.
6. Serve the pan-seared salmon with a dollop of lemon dill sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes (including prep time)
BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
Get ready for a flavor-packed twist on classic sliders! This recipe combines the rich taste of slow-cooked pork with the sweetness of BBQ sauce, all wrapped up in a soft bun.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Coleslaw (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the pork shoulder to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the pork from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
5. Place the pork in a slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or until tender.
6. Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
7. Assemble sliders by placing shredded pork onto hamburger buns. Top with coleslaw if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Cajun Shrimp and Grits
Cajun Shrimp and Grits: A Spicy Twist on a Classic Southern Dish
This recipe combines the richness of creamy grits with the bold flavors of Cajun-spiced shrimp, creating a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (such as Tony Chachere’s)
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the grits are creamy.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually add the Cajun seasoning, paprika, and garlic powder; stir to combine.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until pink and cooked through (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Combine the cooked grits and shrimp mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Margherita Pizza with Fresh Basil
This iconic Italian recipe requires just a few simple ingredients and yields a flavorful, cheesy pizza that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb high-protein flour pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups San Marzano tomatoes, crushed
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Spread the crushed tomatoes evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with mozzarella cheese slices.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the pizza and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Finish by sprinkling chopped fresh basil leaves over the top.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Thai Red Curry with Coconut Milk
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this simple and aromatic red curry recipe. This comforting dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4-6 Thai red chilies, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup water or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, bamboo shoots, etc.)
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add chilies, garlic, and ginger; sauté until fragrant (1 minute).
3. Pour in coconut milk and water/broth; bring to a simmer.
4. Add mixed vegetables and curry powder; cook for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef Tacos with Avocado Salsa
This recipe combines tender beef, crunchy taco shells, and a creamy avocado salsa for a delicious and easy meal. Perfect for a quick dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt and pepper to taste
– For the Avocado Salsa:
+ 3 ripe avocados, diced
+ 1 lime, juiced
+ 1/2 red onion, diced
+ 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
+ Cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and taco seasoning to the beef. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the tacos by spooning the beef mixture onto a tortilla, followed by your desired toppings (e.g., shredded cheese, diced tomatoes).
5. For the Avocado Salsa, combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until well combined.
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Lobster Thermidor
A classic dish that’s sure to impress, Lobster Thermidor is a rich and creamy preparation of succulent lobster meat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lobster meat (claw and body)
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup cognac or brandy
– 1/2 cup grated Swiss cheese
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add lobster meat and cook until lightly browned, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add cognac or brandy and flambé (carefully ignite) for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
5. Stir in Swiss cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Pour mixture into a baking dish and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lobster is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your dinner game with this creamy, savory recipe that combines the flavors of spinach, feta, and chicken. This impressive dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach-feta mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chocolate Lava Cake with Vanilla Ice Cream
Experience the ultimate comfort dessert by combining two classic flavors – rich, gooey chocolate lava cake and creamy vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients:
For the cakes:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup (30g) melted unsalted butter
For the ice cream:
– 2 cups (400ml) heavy cream
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease four 6-ounce ramekins or small cups.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared ramekins.
6. Bake for 12-13 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool in ramekins for 1 minute, then invert onto plates.
8. Serve immediately with scoops of vanilla ice cream.
Cooking Time: 12-13 minutes per cake. Freeze ice cream according to manufacturer’s instructions.
Vegetable Stir-Fry with Teriyaki Sauce
This recipe is a flavorful and healthy stir-fry that combines the sweetness of teriyaki sauce with the crunch of various vegetables. With just 20 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup bell pepper slices
– 1 cup carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Pour in the teriyaki sauce and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the vegetables are coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with green onions, if desired.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage
A classic comfort food dish that combines the flavors of Italian sausage, rich tomato sauce, and creamy melted mozzarella cheese with al dente ziti pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz ziti pasta
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions, al dente.
3. Brown Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add marinara sauce and stir to combine; bring to a simmer.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange cooked ziti pasta in an even layer. Top with the sausage and sauce mixture.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Grilled Vegetable Skewers with Tzatziki
Elevate your outdoor dining experience with this easy and flavorful recipe for grilled vegetable skewers, served with a cool and creamy tzatziki sauce. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, onions, mushrooms)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread vegetables onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes or until tender.
5. Meanwhile, combine yogurt, cucumber, dill, and lemon zest in a bowl.
6. Serve grilled skewers with tzatziki sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Peach Cobbler with Whipped Cream
A classic dessert that’s perfect for warm weather, this peach cobbler is a sweet and satisfying treat. Fresh peaches, sugar, and spices come together in a delicious filling, topped with a crispy, buttery crust.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups fresh peaches, sliced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Whipped cream, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine peaches, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Roll out biscuit dough (or use store-bought) to fit the top of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place on top of peach mixture.
4. Brush egg wash over crust.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is bubbly.
6. Let cool slightly before serving with whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze
This classic Italian salad is a staple of summer gatherings, and our addition of rich balsamic glaze takes it to the next level. Fresh flavors abound in this simple yet elegant dish.
Ingredients:
– 3 large tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (see note)
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Arrange tomato slices on a large plate or platter.
2. Top with mozzarella cheese rounds.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salad, followed by a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
4. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves over the top.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served fresh, but it can be prepared ahead of time and assembled just before serving.
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests on Saturday nights! This collection of 20 delicious recipes is perfect for entertaining. From seafood to meat and veggie options, there’s something for everyone. Try Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi, Classic Beef Bourguignon, or Spicy Honey Glazed Chicken Wings for a flavorful start. For a comforting main course, opt for Truffle Mac and Cheese or Grilled Steak with Chimichurri Sauce. And don’t forget dessert – Chocolate Lava Cake with Vanilla Ice Cream is sure to satisfy. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to cook up something special, these recipes are sure to please.
