51 Fancy Dinner Recipes for Special Nights

Hosting a dinner for a special occasion can be nerve-wracking, especially if you’re not the most confident cook. Fortunately, you can prepare a fancy spread that is both delicious and impressive — and it doesn’t have to be complicated. From basic to more complex, there are recipes here for all tastes and abilities. Set the table, light a candle and impress your guests with these fancy dinner recipes.

Table of contents

• Appetizers
• Red meat
• White meat
• Seafood
• Vegetarian

1. Cheesy pull-apart bread

Category: Appetizers

Who doesn’t like warm, cheesy bread? Serve this easy recipe on a nice dish to set the mood for your fancy dinner ahead.

2. Baked brie

Category: Appetizers

Creamy, melty brie paired with caramelized pears and walnuts will have guests going back for more. Put this appetizer together in 20 minutes or less and serve with sliced baguette or fancy crackers. 

3. Mexican shrimp cocktail

Category: Appetizers

A zesty classic ideal for warm summer evenings, a Mexican shrimp cocktail comes together easily and adds instant visual appeal. This recipe can easily be made in bulk for larger gatherings and is naturally gluten-free for guests who need it!

4. Bruschetta

Category: Appetizers

A classic Italian bruschetta makes a great appetizer at any time of year and instantly elevates any gathering. Load up on fresh, ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil for a flavorful dish.

5. Hamachi crudo

Category: Appetizers

When you need a seafood appetizer that looks elegant but takes minimal time to prepare, this hamachi crudo delivers. This restaurant-quality dish features thinly sliced, fresh yellowtail served with a zesty marinade. Serve chilled on a warm summer evening for a refreshing, flavorful dish.

6. Fondue

Category: Appetizers

Fondue can make any dinner fancy, and this classic Swiss recipe, packed with Gruyere and Emmental cheeses, is a crowd-pleaser. Serve with freshly sliced bread cubes and vegetables and feed a crowd, or enjoy a fancy dinner for two.

7. Breaded pork tenderloin

Category: Red meat

For your red meat eaters, breaded pork tenderloin is a simple recipe that creates a satisfying dish. Make it shine by serving it with a fancy side dish such as cauliflower gratin and a good wine pairing like a medium-bodied pinot noir.  

8. Filet mignon

Category: Red meat

The perfect filet mignon comes together with a short list of high-quality ingredients. Cook these tender steaks in the 10 to 15 minutes before serving the meal. A classic for romantic dinners, pair with a smooth merlot for a rich flavor combination.

9. Chimichurri grilled flank steak

Category: Red meat

The flavorful chimichurri sauce brings this Argentinian-inspired steak dish to life, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. Serve with grilled or roasted vegetables, such as roasted duck fat potatoes, to allow the dish to shine.

10. Osso buco

Category: Red meat

Tender, slow-cooked osso buco veal needs several hours to cook, so your guests will be greeted with mouth-watering aromas when they arrive. Proper searing and well-flavored brazing liquid are the secrets to a dish your guests will be talking about the next day. Serve with a creamy polenta for a traditional take on the meal.

11. Grilled rack of lamb

Category: Red meat

A rack of lamb is a classic choice as a fancy dish, but it’s not as difficult to prepare as you might think. This fragrant variation combines rosemary, garlic, lemon and balsamic vinegar for a burst of flavor. Pair with a bold red wine, such as a Bordeaux blend, for a satisfying combination.

12. Moroccan lamb chops

Category: Red meat

Lamb chops can form the basis of a fancy dinner with just a few ingredients. This version complements the spice of paprika and turmeric with the coolness of fresh mint. Serve with couscous and roasted vegetables for a more traditional, Moroccan-inspired meal. 

13. Braised beef with aromatic herbs

Category: Red meat

Braised beef has a flavorful profile and tender texture, sure to impress at a fancy dinner. Prepare this dish ahead of time and slow-cook for around two hours for meat that melts in your mouth. Serve with Parmesan polenta for a fancy side.

14. Grilled pork souvlaki skewers

Category: Red meat

There’s something about foods cooked and served on skewers that immediately says “fancy.” These Greek-inspired pork souvlaki skewers are served with a tangy tzatziki sauce, incorporating cucumber, fresh dill and garlic. Serve with warm pita bread and a classic Greek salad for a beautiful, fancy dinner.

15. Classic Italian Bolognese

Category: Red meat

A classic bolognese is a crowd-pleasing fancy dinner recipe for family gatherings or dinner with friends, with its flavorful sauce packed with fresh ingredients. You can make this recipe ahead of time and reheat for a low-fuss yet satisfying meal. Serve with garlic bread and a simple salad.

16. Carbonara

Category: Red meat

Pasta is a versatile choice for a dish you can dress up or down and makes for an easy, fancy dinner recipe. This carbonara with a meaty twist is fancied up with bacon, beef and Parmesan for a delicious meal that easily serves a crowd. Serve with a basic green salad for a balanced and satisfying meal.

17. Spinach and feta stuffed chicken 

Category: White meat

Stuffing anything automatically makes it a fancy dish! This spinach and feta stuffed chicken is surprisingly easy to make and cooks in the oven for easy cleanup. Elevate this dish even more by serving it with a fancy side, such as garlic butter green beans.

18. Herb-roasted bone-in chicken breast

Category: White meat

For a one-pan dish that creates a full, fancy dinner, herb-roasted bone-in chicken breast is quick to prepare but big on flavor. Try using a meat thermometer to check the chicken so you cook it to just the right amount of tenderness without overdoing. Serve with a crisp white wine such as a sauvignon blanc for a relaxed meal.

19. Creamy lemon butter chicken

Category: White meat

The irresistible, creamy lemon sauce elevates this chicken breast recipe for fancy dinners. The dish can be made with coconut milk for anyone who is dairy-free, and you could add zucchini or asparagus for more vegetables. Serve with something that helps soak up the delicious sauce, like rice or couscous.

20. Lemon chicken picatta with capers

Category: White meat

This Italian-inspired chicken dish combines tangy lemon with capers, quick to whip up for a fancy dinner. Serve it with pasta and a green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

21. Chicken marsala

Category: White meat

The wine-based sauce of this no-cream chicken marsala adds a fancy touch to the dish, making it a great choice for celebratory dinners. For the best flavor, use a good-quality Marsala wine rather than a cooking wine. Serve the chicken with starchy vegetables to complement the mushroom and wine sauce, and a green salad for balance.

22. Creamy chicken risotto with fresh herbs

Category: White meat

This creamy chicken risotto may be the ultimate comfort food fancy enough to be served for a special occasion. Made in one pot, it’s creamy, rich and best enjoyed with a crisp white wine.

23. Coq au vin

Category: White meat

Coq au vin is probably one of the most well-known and classic French fancy dinner recipes — a staple of the famous chef, Julia Child. This particular recipe uses ingredients most Americans have access to for a flavorful, fancy dish. Sip wine while you prepare this gourmet dish, just like Julia would!

24. Crispy duck with orange glaze

Category: White meat

If you’re feeling a little adventurous, duck with orange glaze makes for a fancy dinner recipe that many people don't often get. The secret to a perfectly roasted duck is to start it in a low, slow oven (300 to 350°F), then finish on a higher temperature (400 to 450°F) for crispy skin. The stuffing and orange glaze will keep guests coming back for more!

25. Garlic butter broiled lobster tails

Category: Seafood

Just say the word “lobster,” and it often evokes fancy dinners in expensive restaurants. But you can cook upscale lobster dishes at home with minimal fuss. Cook immediately before serving for the best texture and flavors, and serve with a side of green vegetables. 

26. Shrimp scampi

Category: Seafood

A classic shrimp scampi comes together quickly and should be served immediately after cooking. Serve with a good fresh pasta to soak up the juices and elevate the dish.

27. Lemon crab linguine

Category: Seafood

Special occasion dinners don’t need to take a lot of time to prepare, and this lemon crab linguine comes together quickly. The creamy, lemony sauce offsets the crab nicely and works well with fresh linguine. Serve with a nice sauvignon blanc for a low-fuss yet elevated meal.

28. King crab legs with garlic lemon butter

Category: Seafood

With just a handful of ingredients and the whole dish cooked in the oven, these king crab legs are surprisingly simple showstoppers for a fancy meal. Serve with classic sides like corn on the cob and baked potatoes.

29. Pan-seared scallops with garlic and lemon

Category: Seafood

Scallops are an elegant dish for a special occasion, and these pan-seared scallops take almost no time to make. The secret to perfectly seared scallops is to pat them dry and not overdo them in the pan. Serve these scallops with a starchy side like creamy risotto and roasted asparagus.

30. Bacon-wrapped scallops

Category: Seafood

These bacon-wrapped scallops exude sophistication and flavor while being satisfyingly simple to make. Try using turkey bacon if you’d like a lower-fat version, and serve with a green salad with simple lemon dressing.

31. Bouillabaisse

Category: Seafood

This classic French fish stew recipe is a crowd-pleaser for seafood lovers. Made with a mix of fish and shellfish stewed in a flavorful base, you can make the broth up to three days in advance, leaving the task of cleaning the fish for the day of your dinner. Serve with a nice garlic bread so guests can mop up the tasty broth!

32. Grilled tilapia

Category: Seafood

Grilled tilapia is a great dinner party choice for a lower-calorie meal that looks appetizing and tastes delicious. This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, so prep your sides first and cook the fish immediately before serving. Serve with a grilled vegetable medley for a colorful and interesting plate.

33. Mahi mahi piccata with lemon caper sauce

Category: Seafood

The lemon caper sauce adds a sophisticated touch to pan-seared mahi mahi and takes just minutes to prepare. You can even make this recipe vegetarian by replacing the fish with tofu and the chicken stock with vegetable stock. Serve with wild rice and grilled asparagus for a classic take on the dish.

34. Garlic butter mussels with white wine

Category: Seafood

Garlic butter mussels make a visually appealing special occasion dinner. The secret to delicious mussels is to choose high-quality mussels and avoid overcooking them. It only takes a few minutes for tender, perfectly cooked morsels. Serve them with a linguine for a tasty main dish.

35. Pan-fried salmon with lemon butter sauce

Category: Seafood

Fresh, high-quality salmon is the secret to this simple yet elegant dinner. Serve alongside steamed green beans and creamy mashed potatoes for a deliciously balanced meal. 

36. Honey miso-glazed salmon

Category: Seafood

For a dish that balances umami and sweet notes, this honey miso-glazed salmon is a great choice for a special occasion. Baked in the oven, this dish is quick to make while you put together some sides, such as quinoa and fresh vegetables.

37. Baked salmon and asparagus

Category: Seafood

This baked salmon dish is made on one tray, cooking the salmon and asparagus together with a zesty glaze. It’s simple but tasty, and sure to impress dinner guests. Serve it with a starchy side, such as rice or mashed potatoes.

38. Grilled cod with lemon herb butter

Category: Seafood

Cod has a mild flavor compared to other seafood options and is a great choice if you’re looking for a versatile fish that even non-seafood eaters will try. The lemon herb butter adds a zesty, gourmet touch.

39. Sole meunière

Category: Seafood

Sole meunière is an elegant French dish that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. Julia Child was well-known for inspiring new generations of Americans to try this dish, finished with a butter, lemon and caper sauce. The classic accompaniment is pommes vapeur — steamed baby potatoes tossed in butter and parsley. 

40. Chilean sea bass with herbs and butter

Category: Seafood

The rich flavors and velvety texture of Chilean sea bass make it an upscale choice for a fancy dinner party. This dish comes together quickly in the oven and works well with a creamy risotto and roasted asparagus.

41. Lentil and sweet potato coconut curry

Category: Vegetarian

If hearty vegetarian food is in order for your fancy dinner, then lentil and sweet potato coconut curry fits the bill. Your kitchen will smell delicious and welcoming as this fragrant curry simmers. If you’d like to increase the protein, you could add some tofu or chickpeas.

42. Gnocchi

Category: Vegetarian

Homemade gnocchi adds a touch of sophistication and hand-crafted care to any special dinner. This recipe includes a tasty tomato cream sauce that will have guests asking for more. Serve with a crisp green salad to balance the dish.

43. Lobster mushroom rigatoni

Category: Vegetarian

This pasta dish is elevated with the addition of lobster mushrooms, fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese. Serve it with a simple salad and crisp white wine for a satisfyingly simple dish.

44. Butternut squash ravioli

Category: Vegetarian

Served with a sage brown butter sauce, this dish is an elegant crowd-pleaser for a fancy dinner. If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought ravioli — the meal will still be delicious! 

45. Lentil and mushroom bolognese

Category: Vegetarian

This flavorful vegan dish can be made ahead of time for a low-fuss dinner option. Make the spiraled zucchini noodles immediately before serving for a fancy touch that will impress your guests.

46. Lemon and Parmesan asparagus risotto

Category: Vegetarian

This creamy risotto is one-pot comfort food that still feels elegant. You can easily multiply this recipe for a crowd, and you can make it gluten-free using a gluten-free broth. 

47. Eggplant Parmesan

Category: Vegetarian

For a hearty vegetarian dinner, try a classic eggplant Parmesan. The dish comes together quickly and bakes in the oven. Presentation is a key part of any fancy dinner, so garnish with fresh basil for that extra touch.

48. Cauliflower steak with roasted shallots

Category: Vegetarian

This elegant plant-based dish requires a little more preparation than some others on this list, but the delicious result is worth it. Cauliflower steaks are a hearty option for meat-free dinners, and this recipe is enhanced with a flavorful tahini sauce, caramelized shallots and crunchy pistachios. 

49. Grilled honey goat cheese pizza

Category: Vegetarian

Who says pizza can’t be fancy? Top your pie with elevated ingredients such as goat cheese, figs, caramelized onions and gourmet honey, and you have a feast that’s ready to impress even the most discerning guest. 

50. Crunchy maple baked sweet potatoes

Category: Vegetarian

Fancy dinners don’t have to involve hours of food prep! You can level up this simple entree with gourmet toppings like caramelized onions, candied pecans and sun-dried tomatoes. Bake for around 40 minutes at 425°F if you’rebaking sweet potatoes whole.

51. Thai red curry

Category: Vegetarian

A delicious Thai curry makes an elegant dish for a fancy dinner. This vegetarian version hits all the right notes with a balance of colored vegetables for eye-pleasing presentation. Serve with steamed rice to help soak up that tasty sauce!

Fancy dinner ideas FAQ

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about fancy dinner ideas.

How can I make dinner at home feel fancier?

A fancy dinner largely comes down to presentation. You can dial up the fancy factor by serving in nice serving dishes, adding thoughtful garnishes and setting the table elegantly for dinner.

What sides should I serve with fancy dinner recipes?

The best sides to serve depend upon the flavor profiles and textures of your main dish. For example, you might serve lighter seafood dishes with heavier sides, like potatoes au gratin or roasted squash. Heavier dishes, like pasta, can benefit from lighter sides, such as fresh salads. Add seasonal ingredients for an extra fancy touch.

What desserts can I serve with a fancy dinner?

Fancy dinners call for elegant desserts. For example, serve crème brûlée or bananas foster in individual ramekins, or white chocolate raspberry cheesecake from a fancy serving plate. Any sort of mousse dessert is a classic for fancy dinners and can be served in individual dishes with garnishes.

Try out fancy dinner recipes with Instacart

If you’re feeling inspired by these fancy dinner recipes, why not practice some before your next celebration?

From anniversary dinners to birthday celebrations, order all the ingredients you need through Instacart. Get your groceries delivered straight to your door so you can focus on perfecting your cooking technique and presentation.