In these times, we’re all craving a little bit of variety in our everyday lives—especially when it comes to what we cook and how we gather around the table. Thankfully, the internet never fails when it comes to fun, creative, and easy ways to celebrate all things ordinary. Turn the heat up on your weeknight meals with these creative dinner ideas and embrace the spirit of culinary imagination!
The Wing Stop
Are you missing sports as much as we are? Are you in dire need of a tall pour of your favorite adult beverage with your favorite people? Although we can’t get the gang back together, we do know a creative dinner idea that can help scratch some of that itch… turn your kitchen into your favorite wing stop! You know, the one that kind of smells like a college bar but serves your favorite wings and apps?! All you have to do is put a rerun of your favorite game on a laptop or TV in the kitchen, get the old jersey out, and whip up one of these epic wing recipes.
The Hibachi Grill
First things first: We do NOT recommend you try and light onions on fire on a griddle in your kitchen. We also don’t recommend you use a bottle to squirt sake into someone else’s mouth from a distance. We DO recommend you turn your kitchen into a mini hibachi grill and transport yourself to one of the most interactive themed dinner ideas out there.
Sure, your knife and spatula skills might not be up to par, but it’s the thought that counts.
Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry
The Hipster Hangout
If delectable vegan meals and meatless alternatives are your thing, this is the themed dinner idea for you. We advise dusting off the record player and spinning your favorite album (putting advent-garde jazz on the radio can work in a pinch), lighting a little bit of incense and waiting at least 30 minutes before anyone “takes your order.” The plus side? These delicious and creative food recipes. We’re not sure you can write an online review about your own kitchen but, after all, only the cool kids know about true hipster hangouts.
Chick'n Waffle & Sammies with Jalapeno Jelly
The Burrito Bar
OK—this one might be our favorite themed dinner idea. Separate all the makings you need for a burrito into different bowls and containers and select one lucky winner from your family to act as the server. You walk down the line, and they assemble your mouthwatering burrito, taco, or bowl! Guac doesn’t cost extra here, so be sure to load it on.
Southwest Beef and Bean Burritos
Cauliflower Rice and Chick'n Burrito Bowl
The Airplane Meal
Did you ever think you’d miss going through airport security? Sprinting to catch a flight? What about eating an airplane meal in a seat two sizes too small? Yeah, we didn’t either. But we’re getting creative with our themed dinner ideas, so here we are!
Take yourself back to that crowded coach cabin with one of these amazing microwaveable dinners. They’re exponentially tastier than any airline food you’ve ever had, so you can bring this dinner theme to life by sitting everyone on one side of the table to ensure your elbows touch throughout the meal.
The Italian Experience
Break out the wine, pull out a checkered tablecloth, and light a few candles for this creative dinner idea—it’s time to turn your dining room into a slice of Little Italy and embrace the simple brilliance of a big ol’ pile of spaghetti. Also, if you don’t fill yourself up on garlic bread before your main course is ready, did you even eat Italian?
