21 dinner recipes for two without the hassle of extra food

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If you’re looking for dinner ideas that are perfectly portioned for two without leaving you with piles of leftovers, you’ve come to the right place. These recipes offer a mix of simplicity and flavor, so you can enjoy a satisfying meal without the hassle of extra food. Ideal for busy weeknights or cozy dinners, these dishes are designed to make your cooking experience as easy as it is enjoyable.

Breaded fish fillet served with green beans and lemon wedges on a plate.
Panko Crusted Cod. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

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 great dinner choice for two when you want a hearty meal without leftovers piling up. The beef is tender and flavorful, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With just a few ingredients, this dish comes together easily in your slow cooker while you go about your day. It’s a hands-off dinner that feels like comfort food without extra work. A simple side of rice or mashed potatoes completes the meal perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef Tips

Pancit Bihon Guisado

A fork lifting a portion of chicken and noodles from a bowl of stir-fry.
Pancit Bihon Guisado. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Pancit bihon guisado is a quick stir-fried noodle dish that’s ideal for when you need something easy yet special for two. The mix of vegetables and seasonings makes it light but satisfying, with no excess servings to worry about. It’s a familiar favorite that feels just right for a weeknight or when you want a change of pace. Plus, it’s easy to make with whatever veggies you have on hand. This classic Filipino dish offers a simple way to enjoy a delicious dinner with no fuss.
Get the Recipe: Pancit Bihon Guisado

Ground Pork Tacos

Two pork tacos on a white plate with lime wedges.
Ground Pork Tacos. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These ground pork tacos are a perfect dinner idea when you want something flavorful without overdoing it on portions. Quick to make, they bring together seasoned pork and fresh toppings that create a great mix of textures. They’re perfect for those nights when you want something a little different but don’t want to fuss with a big meal. The best part is that the recipe makes just enough for two, so no extra food goes to waste. Simply serve with your favorite salsa for a fun and easy dinner.
Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Tacos

Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

Pouring savory sauce over a bowl of rice topped with beef and bell peppers.
Slow Cooker Pepper Steak. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Slow cooker pepper steak is a flavorful and easy dish perfect for when you want a satisfying dinner without any extra hassle. The steak and peppers cook slowly, blending together beautifully without you having to do much. It’s the perfect size for two, so you’re not left dealing with extra servings. Serve it over rice or noodles for a full meal that feels special but takes minimal effort. Great for busy days when you still want a nice dinner at the end.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Shrimp and broccoli stir-fry in a bowl.
Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This shrimp and broccoli stir-fry is a great dinner option when you’re cooking for two and want a balanced meal with no fuss. The fresh veggies and shrimp cook quickly, making this dish a great choice for busy nights. With just a few ingredients, you get a light but satisfying meal that doesn’t leave you with extra dishes or food to worry about. It’s a fast, fresh, and flavorful way to enjoy dinner without overthinking it. Perfect with a side of rice or noodles.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry

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.

Air fryer baby back ribs are an easy way to enjoy ribs without needing a grill or dealing with too much food. These ribs are perfectly portioned for two and come out tender and juicy with just the right amount of seasoning. Using the air fryer cuts down on cook time, so you get that BBQ feel without a big mess. It’s a great option when you’re craving something hearty but don’t want the work of a full rack. Pair with your favorite side for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

Cream Cheese Chicken

A plate with chicken and green beans on it.
Cream Cheese Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Cream cheese chicken is a rich, creamy dish that’s perfectly sized for two, making it ideal for an effortless dinner. The chicken cooks up tender, and the creamy sauce adds a nice touch without requiring a lot of effort. It’s the kind of recipe that feels comforting without leaving you stuck with leftovers. Perfect for those nights when you want something warm and filling but still easy to pull together. Serve it with pasta or rice to make it a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Chicken

Chicken Divan

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

Chicken divan is a classic dish that’s simple to prepare and perfectly portioned for two, making it a go-to for dinner without any extra food. The combination of chicken, broccoli, and creamy sauce makes it a comforting choice that’s quick to put together. With minimal ingredients, this dish feels homemade and special without a lot of work. Ideal for a quick weeknight meal when you want something familiar but not overwhelming. A great way to enjoy a balanced dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Divan

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

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

Air fryer chicken tenders are quick, crispy, and the perfect size for two, so there’s no need to worry about leftovers. They’re easy to make and offer that classic comfort of crispy chicken without the fuss of deep frying. A great option for busy nights when you want something homemade but fast. Pair them with a simple salad or fries, and you’ve got a complete meal. These tenders are a fun way to enjoy a light but satisfying dinner.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Panko Crusted Cod

Panko-crusted cod fish on a plate with green beans.
Panko Crusted Cod. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Panko crusted cod is an excellent option for dinner when you want something light yet filling and just the right size. The crispy panko coating adds a nice crunch without overcomplicating things, making it great for two people. It’s easy to prepare, with simple ingredients that come together quickly for a no-fuss meal. Serve with a side of vegetables or a small salad to complete the dish. It’s an ideal way to enjoy a nice dinner without too much hassle.
Get the Recipe: Panko Crusted Cod

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.

Grilled shrimp skewers are perfect for when you want a fresh and easy dinner that won’t leave you with extra food to deal with. These skewers cook up fast, making them a great option for a quick meal that still feels special. The shrimp pairs well with any side, from a light salad to rice, making it versatile for any kind of night. Perfect for outdoor grilling or indoor broiling, this dish keeps things simple and delicious. Just enough to enjoy without any extra hassle.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Shrimp Scampi

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

Shrimp scampi is an easy, elegant dish that’s perfect for two without leaving you with leftovers. It’s light yet full of flavor, making it great for a quick dinner that feels a bit more special. The buttery garlic sauce pairs well with pasta or a simple side of bread. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a seafood dinner without the work or extra portions. Quick to make and just the right amount for a cozy evening in.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

Crab Pasta

A close-up of spaghetti twirled on a fork with bits of crab meat and herbs, with more pasta and a dish in the blurred background.
Crab Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Crab pasta is a light and fresh dinner that’s perfect for two, making it a great way to enjoy seafood without extra servings. The crab adds a nice touch of flavor without being too heavy, while the pasta keeps it comforting and familiar. It’s easy to make with simple ingredients that come together quickly for a no-fuss meal. Perfect for when you want something a little different but not overwhelming. A great option for a cozy night in.
Get the Recipe: Crab Pasta

Seafood Pot Pie

Seafood Pot Pie in small pie dish.
Seafood Pot Pie. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Seafood pot pie is a cozy, comforting meal that’s perfectly sized for two, making it great for enjoying a special dinner without the hassle of extra food. The creamy seafood filling with a flaky crust feels like a little bit of luxury, but it’s easy to make. This dish is ideal for when you want something warm and filling but not too much. It’s a nice way to enjoy a mix of seafood flavors in a simple, one-dish meal. A perfect way to enjoy a comforting dinner that’s just enough.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Pot Pie

Panko Chicken Breast

Panko chicken on a white plate.
Panko Chicken Breast. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Panko chicken breast is a light, crispy option that’s easy to make and perfectly portioned for two. The panko crust adds a satisfying crunch without being complicated, and the chicken stays juicy and tender. Great for a simple weeknight meal when you want something that feels a bit more put together. Serve it with a side salad or some roasted veggies for a complete meal that’s just enough. A great way to enjoy a balanced dinner without any extra.
Get the Recipe: Panko Chicken Breast

Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

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

Sweet Hawaiian crockpot chicken is an easy, flavorful meal that’s perfect when you’re cooking for two. The slow cooker does all the work, blending sweet and savory flavors that make this dish a treat. It’s just the right size, so you don’t end up with more than you need. Perfect for a busy day when you want a nice dinner waiting for you. Serve it over rice or with a simple side for a complete meal without any hassle.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

Air Fryer Tuna Melt

A grilled cheese tuna sandwich is cut in half on a plate.
Air Fryer Tuna Melt. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air fryer tuna melt is a simple and quick meal that’s perfect for when you need something light but filling for two. The crispy bread and melty cheese combine with tuna for a satisfying bite that doesn’t feel like too much. Using the air fryer keeps it easy and fast, making it ideal for a casual dinner or lunch. No extra servings, just enough for a cozy meal. A fun way to enjoy a classic sandwich with a twist.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tuna Melt

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

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

Garlic butter shrimp pasta is a simple yet elegant dinner that’s great for two without leaving you with extra food to store. The garlic butter sauce adds just the right touch of richness, making this dish feel like a treat without being heavy. Quick to make and easy to enjoy, it’s perfect for a weeknight or even a date night in. Pair with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. Just enough to keep things simple and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Chinese Black Pepper Chicken

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

Chinese black pepper chicken is a quick, flavorful stir-fry that’s just right for two, making it a great choice when you want something different but don’t want a lot of leftovers. The bold flavors of pepper and sauce make this dish feel like takeout without leaving home. It’s easy to make with simple ingredients and perfect for pairing with rice or noodles. An excellent way to enjoy a tasty dinner without extra hassle. Great for busy nights when you want something fast.
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 an easy, flavorful dish that’s great when you’re cooking for two and want something a bit different. The steak simmers in a tomato-based sauce, making it tender and juicy without much work. Perfect for pairing with a side of pasta or some crusty bread to soak up the sauce. This dish feels special enough for a nice dinner without being complicated. Just the right amount to enjoy a great meal without leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Steak Pizzaiola

Shrimp and Tomato Pasta

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

Shrimp and tomato pasta is a light and fresh dinner option that’s perfectly sized for two, making it a great choice when you want something tasty without extra servings. The shrimp and tomatoes blend well with the pasta, creating a dish that’s easy to enjoy without any fuss. It’s quick to make and works great for a simple weeknight meal or a casual date night in. Just enough for a satisfying dinner without going overboard. Pair with a side of garlic bread for a full meal.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Tomato Pasta

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