9 Friday Night Dinner Ideas to Kick Off the Weekend
Friday nights call for delicious, comforting meals that celebrate the end of a long week and the start of the weekend. Whether you’re in the mood for something indulgent or light, these dinner ideas will inspire you to create memorable meals that everyone will enjoy.
Double-Stack Mushroom and Chicken Cheeseburgers
Everyone loves a hearty burger, and these double-stack mushroom and chicken cheeseburgers are no exception. The thick, juicy burger patties are stacked two high, topped with shredded lettuce and Muenster cheese, creating a satisfying and delicious bite. Perfect for a casual Friday night, these burgers are sure to be a hit.
Roasted Garlic and Parmesan Baked Halibut
Roasted garlic and Parmesan baked halibut defies the old rule about not pairing seafood with cheese. This dish offers flaky, tender fish with a golden brown crust loaded with cheese, making it a delectable choice for dinner. The combination of garlic and Parmesan adds a rich, savory flavor that will leave you craving more.
Skillet Chicken Parmesan With Gnocchi
Skillet chicken Parmesan with gnocchi is a simple yet delightful Friday night dinner. This dish requires minimal cleanup since it’s made in one skillet, making it perfect for a relaxing evening. The crispy chicken, tender gnocchi, and flavorful tomato sauce come together to create a comforting and satisfying meal.
Scallops With Remoulade
Elevate your Friday night dinner with seared scallops paired with a creamy remoulade sauce. Made with mayonnaise, extra-virgin olive oil, grainy mustard, capers, Worcestershire sauce, sriracha, and lemon, this sauce adds a tangy and savory touch to the delicate scallops. It’s a sophisticated yet easy dish to impress your guests or treat yourself.
One-Pan Crispy Braised Chicken and Fennel Pasta
After a long week, a comforting pasta dish like one-pan crispy braised chicken and fennel pasta is just what you need. The chicken is braised to perfection, and the fennel adds a subtle, sweet flavor to the pasta. Topped with a shower of parsley, this dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal Friday night meal.
Easy Fish Tacos
Fish tacos are a fun and versatile option for Friday night dinners. Using corn tortillas and marinating cod, halibut, or haddock for 20 minutes, you can create a flavorful and healthy meal that everyone will enjoy. Top with fresh salsa, avocado, and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing and satisfying dinner.
Brioche-Crusted Salmon
Brioche-crusted salmon is a chef’s tip for achieving crispy, buttery fish that you won’t want to cook any other way. The brioche crumbs add a delightful crunch to the tender salmon, making it a perfect dish for a special Friday night dinner. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Our Favorite Mac and Cheese
A classic comfort food, creamy macaroni and cheese is always a fantastic choice for a Friday night dinner. This dish combines tender pasta with a rich, cheesy sauce, creating a meal that’s both nostalgic and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, mac and cheese is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Paneer-Stuffed Peppers
For a vegetarian option, paneer-stuffed peppers offer a delicious and satisfying meal. Bell peppers are filled with creamy paneer and a spicy tomato sauce, then baked to perfection. This dish is not only flavorful but also visually appealing, making it a great choice for a Friday night dinner that you’ll want to make again and again.