Hosting a dinner party can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right recipes and a little planning, you’ll be sure to impress your guests with a memorable evening. In this article, we’re sharing 18 elegant dinner party recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
From classic dishes like Beef Wellington and Roasted Brussels Sprouts, to more decadent options like Truffle Mashed Potatoes and Garlic Butter Lobster Tails, there’s something for everyone on this list. And don’t forget about the sweet treats – our Chocolate Lava Cake with Vanilla Ice Cream is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are easy to follow and packed with flavor. So go ahead, get cooking, and make your next dinner party one to remember!
Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb
Elevate your lamb dish with the bright flavors of fresh herbs and a crispy crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) rack of lamb, frenched
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, parsley, and garlic.
3. Season the lamb rack with salt and pepper.
4. Spread the herb mixture evenly over the lamb, making sure to coat all surfaces.
5. Place the lamb on a rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Truffle Mashed Potatoes
Truffle Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Elevate your mashed potato game with the decadent flavor of truffles! This recipe combines tender Yukon gold potatoes, rich butter, and a hint of earthy truffle essence.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 large Yukon gold potatoes
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon truffle oil or shaved black truffles (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chives or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Bake the potatoes at 400°F (200°C) for about 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
- Let the potatoes cool slightly before mashing them in a large bowl with the softened butter and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- If using truffle oil or shaved black truffles, stir them in at this point to infuse the potatoes with their earthy flavor.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour (including baking time)
Garlic Butter Lobster Tails
Elevate your seafood game with this decadent Garlic Butter Lobster Tails recipe, perfect for a special occasion or romantic dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lobster tails, thawed if frozen
– 2 tablespoons (1/4 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place lobster tails on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread the garlic butter evenly over each lobster tail, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lobster is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Baked Brie with Fig Jam
Elevate your entertaining game with this elegant and flavorful appetizer. Soft brie cheese, baked to perfection and paired with a sweet fig jam, is sure to delight your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese
– 1/4 cup fig jam
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 baguette, sliced
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Place the brie cheese on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the fig jam and honey over the cheese, spreading it evenly.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is softened and slightly puffed.
5. Meanwhile, toast the baguette slices.
6. Assemble the appetizer by placing a toasted baguette slice on each plate, topping with a spoonful of the baked brie and fig jam mixture.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Beef Wellington with Mushroom Duxelles
Elevate your dinner party with this show-stopping Beef Wellington, paired with a rich and earthy mushroom duxelles.
Ingredients:
For the beef:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) filet mignon, trimmed of excess fat
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
For the mushroom duxelles:
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– 1/2 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the puff pastry:
– 1 package frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the beef with olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
3. In a pan, sauté the mushrooms in butter until softened; add flour, wine, and broth, and cook until absorbed. Let cool.
4. Place the cooled beef on a piece of parchment paper, leaving a 1-inch border around it. Spread the mushroom duxelles over the beef, leaving a small border at one end.
5. Roll out the puff pastry to fit the beef; place it over the beef, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush with beaten egg and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Recipe
Add some savory Italian flair to your roasted Brussels sprouts by tossing them with crispy pancetta and a hint of lemon. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, cook the pancetta in a small skillet over medium heat until crispy.
6. Remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven and toss with lemon juice and crispy pancetta.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons
Classic Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons Recipe
Summary: A timeless favorite, this Classic Caesar Salad is elevated by homemade croutons that add a satisfying crunch and flavor to the dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of romaine lettuce, washed and torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup homemade croutons (see below for recipe)
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg yolk (optional)
Homemade Croutons:
– 1/2 loaf Italian bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Toss crouton ingredients with 1 tablespoon olive oil and salt. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
3. In a large bowl, combine lettuce, croutons, Parmesan cheese, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Toss to combine.
4. If using egg yolk, whisk into the dressing until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes (includes baking time for croutons)
Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce
A classic seafood dish that’s quick and easy to make, pan-seared scallops with lemon butter sauce is a great option for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Heat one tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the scallops to the pan and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
4. Remove the scallops from the pan and set them aside.
5. In the same pan, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter over low heat.
6. Add the lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper to the pan and stir until well combined.
7. Serve the scallops with the lemon butter sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and impressive main course. Tender chicken breast is stuffed with a creamy spinach and artichoke mixture, resulting in a deliciously moist and savory dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, artichoke hearts, garlic, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach-artichoke mixture, making sure not to overfill.
5. Place stuffed chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
Brighten up your salad game with this vibrant and delicious combination of roasted beets, creamy goat cheese, and peppery arugula.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 4 cups arugula
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap beets in foil and roast for 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let beets cool, then peel and slice into wedges.
4. In a large bowl, combine arugula, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped walnuts (if using).
5. Add roasted beet wedges to the salad and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Risotto
This creamy risotto recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan with Arborio rice, creating a comforting and indulgent side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the Arborio rice to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly toasted.
4. If using wine, add it to the skillet and cook until absorbed.
5. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth to the skillet and stir until absorbed. Repeat this process, adding the broth in 1/2 cup increments, until the rice is cooked (about 20-25 minutes).
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce
Elevate your springtime meals with the tender flavors of grilled asparagus paired with a rich and creamy Hollandaise sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup egg yolks
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush asparagus with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill asparagus for 4-6 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, lemon juice, and cayenne pepper.
6. Gradually pour the warm butter mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking continuously.
7. Continue whisking until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time:
– Asparagus: 8-12 minutes
– Hollandaise Sauce: 5-7 minutes
Chocolate Lava Cake with Vanilla Ice Cream
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this decadent combination of warm, gooey chocolate lava cake and cold, creamy vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients:
For the cakes:
– 3 large eggs
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 6 ounces high-quality dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the ice cream:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Butter six 6-ounce ramekins or small cups.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Melt chocolate in the microwave or in a double boiler. Allow it to cool slightly.
4. Whisk eggs into melted chocolate until smooth. Add melted butter and whisk until combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared ramekins and bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still jiggly.
6. Meanwhile, combine ice cream ingredients in a medium bowl and whip until stiff peaks form.
7. Serve warm cakes with scoops of vanilla ice cream.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes for the cakes, and approximately 10-15 minutes to whip the ice cream.
Slow-Cooked Braised Short Ribs
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a cozy evening meal, this slow-cooked braised short ribs recipe yields tender and flavorful results.
Ingredients:
– 4 pounds beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the short ribs with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the short ribs on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return the short ribs to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this easy and flavorful recipe, combining the sweetness of portobello mushrooms with the freshness of Caprese salad.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps cleaned
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture onto both sides of mushroom caps.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with a cherry tomato half, a mozzarella slice, and a sprinkle of basil leaves (if using).
5. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the mushrooms.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pomegranate Glazed Salmon
This sweet and savory pomegranate glaze elevates the flavor of salmon to new heights, making it a perfect dish for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pomegranate juice, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic powder.
3. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow baking dish. Brush the glaze evenly over the fish.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Tart
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Tart Recipe
A sweet and savory tart that combines the richness of caramelized onions with the creaminess of Gruyère cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
– Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
4. Brush the edges of the pastry with beaten egg.
5. Arrange the cooked onions on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Sprinkle Gruyère cheese evenly over the onions.
7. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling and press edges to seal.
8. Brush the top of the tart with beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tiramisu with Mascarpone Cream
A classic Italian dessert, Tiramisu is a creamy and decadent treat that’s perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 4 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. Dip each ladyfinger into the brewed coffee for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable but not too wet.
3. In a separate container, whisk together the egg yolks until light and fluffy.
4. To assemble the Tiramisu, start with a layer of ladyfingers in the bottom of a serving dish. You may need to trim them to fit the dish.
5. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
6. Repeat the layers one more time, finishing with the remaining mascarpone mixture on top.
7. Dust with cocoa powder and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (including refrigeration time)
Summary
Looking for elegant dinner party recipes that will impress your guests? Look no further! This article features 18 stunning dishes, from Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb to Chocolate Lava Cake with Vanilla Ice Cream. Impress your friends with Truffle Mashed Potatoes, Garlic Butter Lobster Tails, and Beef Wellington with Mushroom Duxelles. Or, try one of the many vegetarian options like Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta or Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Chicken Breast. Whatever you choose, these recipes are sure to be a hit at your next dinner party.
