8 Unforgettable Dinners to Wow Your Valentine

Whether you’re planning a romantic candlelit meal for two or something with the whole family, Valentine’s Day dinner is the perfect excuse to cook something a little special. These elegant, restaurant-worthy recipes feel impressive, but they’re all totally doable at home—no reservation required.

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Celebrate Valentine’s Day at home with these wow-worthy dinner recipes!

cookbook author erin clarke of well plated

Anyone else hate the headache of going out for Valentine’s Day? It’s cold! It’s crowded! And if you don’t remember to make reservations weeks in advance, you might end up celebrating the holiday in the off-hours at Denny’s. (Not that 3pm pancakes aren’t good, but they’re not exactly Valentine’s Day worthy.)

Often, Ben and I just celebrate Valentine’s Day at home and we cook something a little out-of-the-ordinary together.

Save the baked pork chops and potatoes for the 15th—for Valentine’s Day, we’re talking buttery seafood and classic French chicken; slow-braised meats and succulent roasts.

This collection is packed with dishes that turn an ordinary evening into something memorable!

Seared Scallops

Golden on the outside and tender in the center, these seared scallops come together quickly with just a few ingredients. They’re the ultimate “fancy but easy” dinner that feels straight out of a restaurant.

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Red wine braised short rib pasta with mashed potatoes in a gray bowl

Braised Short Ribs

These braised short ribs cook low and slow until they’re meltingly tender and full of rich, savory flavor. It’s a cozy, luxurious dish that’s perfect for a romantic winter dinner.

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Rack of Lamb

This rack of lamb is seasoned simply and roasted until perfectly juicy, then finished with a flavorful crust. It looks incredibly impressive on the table but is surprisingly straightforward to make.

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Lamb Shanks

Slow-braised lamb shanks become fall-apart tender in a deeply flavorful sauce. Serve them over mashed potatoes or polenta for a comforting, special-occasion meal.

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how to make standing rib roast perfect in the oven

Standing Rib Roast Recipe

A standing rib roast is the definition of a show-stopping centerpiece, with a beautifully browned crust and juicy, tender interior. It’s perfect for a holiday-style Valentine’s dinner that feels truly celebratory.

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chicken francaise in a skillet with butter

Chicken Francese

Lightly breaded chicken is simmered in a bright, lemony butter sauce in this classic Chicken Francese. It’s elegant, comforting, and ideal for a romantic dinner that doesn’t feel too heavy.

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Pan Seared Salmon

Crispy on the outside and flaky on the inside, this pan-seared salmon is finished with a simple, flavorful sauce. It’s a quick yet sophisticated option that’s perfect for a weeknight Valentine’s celebration.

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Seafood Pasta

This seafood pasta is loaded with tender shrimp, scallops, and other seafood in a light, garlicky sauce. It’s a restaurant-style dish that feels indulgent and perfect for a special night in.

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