Made it to Friday night and need to cook something delicious? Whether you’re staying in for a tasty meal-for-two or inviting loved ones round for a feast, we’ve got you covered.
Friday night is a great moment to get together with friends and family to share a relaxed meal before the weekend properly kicks off – it’s a special time that’s celebrated in the Jewish tradition of Shabbat. And Jamie’s nailed those weekend winners with Friday Night Feasts. Think incredible veg, fish and meat dishes from all over the world that will wow and surprise your guests.
And if you’re staying in? You don’t need to miss out on your favourite flavours! Before you open that meal delivery app (again!), let us tempt you with our quick and easy fakeaways, delicious date-night recipes and original twists on classics.
So come on, let’s get stuck in! Here are 20+ recipes for when you need Friday night dinner ideas.
LET’S FEAST
Let’s start things off with this brilliant curry that packs a punch in all the right ways – grilled paneer and fresh veg in a beautifully spiced sauce. Served with a crunchy box-grater salad and fluffy coconut pancakes, it’s the ultimate dinner-party experience.
This epic crowd-pleaser is the complete package: melt-in-the-mouth duck and soft homemade pancakes, paired with sweet hoisin sauce and a fresh zingy salad. It’s a classic that’s guaranteed to be loved by everyone around the table.
This simple, flavour-packed pasta dish needs just a little bit of prep, then the oven does all the hard work. Sweet tomatoes and peppers are roasted in a tray with creamy ricotta, oregano and a touch of chilli, then cooked pasta is tossed through just before serving. This one’s sure to impress!
Spice up your Friday night with this impressive Korean-inspired roast. Juicy chicken is covered in a punchy kimchi marinade, paired with pillowy coconut bao and a fresh slaw that adds a gorgeous tang. This dish is pure magic – perfect for sharing around the table on a Friday night.
For a taste of the vibrant flavours of South India, try this gorgeous recipe. Think light, crisp pancakes packed with fresh veggies and spices, served alongside a selection of chutneys and a lemony pickle that’s sure to wake up your taste buds.
Want a cosy, comforting Friday night meal that’s also incredible for feeding a crowd? This tender meatloaf is packed with aromatic herbs and spices, and baked to perfection with smoky bacon, fragrant fennel and a caramelised glaze. Just add your favourite sides.
A Greek dish traditionally made with lamb, this vegetarian twist is protein-packed with lentils and chickpeas, stirred through a rich ragù with roasted aubergine, and finished with a cheesy golden topping. The flavour is off-the-charts!
We love a recipe that’s simple and exciting – and this one ticks both boxes! Juicy roast chicken, chickpeas and sweet potatoes are tossed in a vibrant harissa paste, then served with a delicious minty slaw. It’s great for group get-togethers as it’s served fajita-style. Yum!
DATE-NIGHT DINNERS FOR 2
For those times when you want (need?!) to pull out all the stops! This romantic twist on the classic features everything you’d expect – a blushing beef fillet and mushroom duxelle – just in a smaller golden puff pastry parcel. Elegant, impressive and oh-so good.
For something quicker and easier – yet still classy – try this air-fryer winner. Juicy chicken breast is loaded with buttery mushrooms, fresh herbs and fragrant garlic, then wrapped in a golden pastry pocket. Finish with lashings of the rich mustard cream sauce.
Aubergine, but not as you know it… This veggie stunner is speedy and simple to make – perfect for date night! Boiling, steaming and frying the aubergine gives it an unreal texture, while the sweet umami-rich miso sauce ensures it’s a memorable one.
Date-night meals don't get much tastier than this! The modern classic from Thailand is ideal Friday night fare, and this one is packed with flavour, from the sweet tamarind sauce and crunchy peanuts to salty dried shrimp and fresh herbs. It’s zingy, comforting and ridiculously delicious.
Forgot it was your turn to cook? This hero dish comes together in just 10 minutes! It looks and tastes like something you spent hours on, with rich, creamy mushroom grains, crispy fried asparagus, salty Parmesan and a zesty hit of lemon.
We’re big fans of this take on the traditional Mexican dish, quesadillas. They can be prepared ahead of time and cooked to order for easy entertaining, plus they’ll deliver that satisfying burger vibe with a fun twist!
FABULOUS FAKEAWAYS
Skip the takeaway and save money by whipping up this mouthwatering fried chicken fakeaway instead! With sweet potato wedges and a crunchy slaw, it’s guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.
Who can resist a New York-style thin crust pizza loaded with a tasty homemade tomato sauce? It’s a real crowdpleaser for a Friday night feast – mix up your toppings to suit your guests.
One of Japan’s most popular dishes, this is fried chicken heaven! Tender chicken coated in crisp panko breadcrumbs and served with a tangy katsu curry sauce, coconut rice and bold pickles… The perfect fakeaway.
A traditional Friday night takeaway – but make it £1 a portion! How’s aromatic kebabs wrapped in soft flatbreads, with a super-fresh salad, spicy chilli yoghurt and mint leaves? Or try this caramelised celeriac shawarma for a tasty meat-free alternative.
Another £1 winner! Succulent pork belly slices are pan-fried to crispy perfection, then piled onto soft tortillas with a delicious charred corn salad and crunchy apple slaw. All kicked up a notch with chipotle hot sauce and zingy lime zest.
Craving something quick for a Friday night treat? These nachos are your new go-to! Loaded with smoky chipotle chilli, melted cheese and topped with fresh homemade salsa, they’re ready in no time and impossible to resist.
Hungry for more? Check out loads more of our gorgeous dinner ideas.
