Surprise Dad With Flavor: 15 Recipes That Go Beyond the Grill This Father’s Day

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Surprise Dad With Flavor: 15 Recipes That Go Beyond the Grill This Father’s Day

Father’s Day is the perfect time to surprise Dad with something special, and these 15 recipes go beyond the typical grill fare. Each dish is packed with flavor and creativity, offering a fresh take on how to celebrate Dad. Make this Father’s Day one to remember with meals that are as special as he is. Enjoy the process of cooking and the joy of sharing these incredible dishes with the whole family.

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs on a platter.
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Turkey & Apple Panini

Turkey & Apple Panini stacked on a plate.
Turkey & Apple Panini. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Serve this with a side of his favorite chips for a complete meal. Turkey & Apple Panini offers a delightful combination of flavors that upgrade the traditional sandwich. The crisp apples add a sweet crunch that complements the savory turkey beautifully. It’s easy to make but impressively satisfying, ensuring Dad will appreciate the thought and effort.
Get the Recipe: Turkey & Apple Panini

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Air Fryer chicken cordon bleu on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu puts a healthier spin on a beloved classic. This version achieves a crispy outer crust and a gooey cheese and ham center without the need for deep frying. It’s perfect for a Father’s Day meal that’s both fancy and fuss-free. This dish is sure to impress with its sophisticated look and delicious taste.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Baked Scotch Eggs

Scotch Eggs on a black plate.
Baked Scotch Eggs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

These eggs are a delightful surprise for anyone who’s used to more traditional egg dishes. Baked Scotch Eggs are a hearty and fun appetizer or snack that’s perfect for any Father’s Day gathering. Serve these at your celebration for a unique twist that’s bound to get everyone talking. They’re flavorful, filling, and a total crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Baked Scotch Eggs

Chicken Paprikash

Chicken Paprikash on a platter with gravy.
Chicken Paprikash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken Paprikash is a comforting Hungarian dish that’s rich with a creamy paprika sauce. The tender chicken is smothered in this vibrant and flavorful sauce, making it a warming dish for a special dinner. It’s traditionally served with dumplings or noodles, rounding out a satisfying meal. It’s sure to become a new favorite with its deep, comforting tones.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash

Mexican Street Corn Salad

Mexican Street Corn Salad in a bowl.
Mexican Street Corn Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This salad mixes sweet corn with a zesty lime dressing and spicy seasonings, creating a refreshing side dish. Mexican Street Corn Salad brings the vibrant flavors of Mexican street food to your Father’s Day feast. It’s perfect for balancing out heavier meats and impresses with its bold flavors and colorful presentation.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Sloppy Joe Casserole

A serving of Sloppy Joe Casserole pasta with meat on a plate with a fork.
Sloppy Joe Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sloppy Joe Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that takes the classic sloppy Joe to a new level. Layered with savory meat sauce, cheese, and a biscuit topping, it’s baked until golden and bubbly. This casserole is ideal for a casual Father’s Day dinner, offering familiar flavors in an innovative format. Dad and the whole family will appreciate the delicious nostalgia of this meal.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole

Garlic Chicken Skillet

Garlic Chicken Skillet with peppers and asparagus on a white plate.
Garlic Chicken Skillet. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This dish is perfect for dads who appreciate a good, hearty chicken dinner. Garlic Chicken Skillet is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. It’s a skillet meal that offers a big flavor with minimal ingredients. It’s quick to cook, leaving more time for family celebrations. Serve this chicken with a side of vegetables or potatoes for a complete, satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Chicken Skillet

Pork Belly Burnt Ends

A plate of smoked pork belly burnt ends with tomatoes and pickles.
Pork Belly Burnt Ends. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Pork Belly Burnt Ends are a decadent treat that’s perfect for the dad who loves his barbecue. These morsels are rich, smoky, and covered in a sweet and tangy sauce that’s absolutely addictive. They’re slow-cooked to perfection, offering a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Serve these at your Father’s Day barbecue for a dish that’s bound to steal the show.
Get the Recipe: Pork Belly Burnt Ends

Smoked Garlic Parmesan Wings

Chicken wings with garlic and Parmesan on a white plate.
Smoked Garlic Parmesan Wings. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Watch as they become the new family favorite. Smoked Garlic Parmesan Wings are a tasty alternative to the usual barbecue fare. Smoking the wings infuses them with a deep, woodsy flavor, while the garlic and Parmesan add a rich, savory touch. These wings are perfect for dads who appreciate a sophisticated twist on classic snacks.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Garlic Parmesan Wings

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs on a platter.
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy make for a hearty meal that’s sure to impress. This dish combines the juiciness of baked chicken with the rich, comforting taste of onion gravy. It’s perfect for a celebratory dinner, offering a satisfying, gourmet experience. Serve this meal to show Dad how much you appreciate him.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy

Shrimp and Grits Casserole

A casserole dish with chicken and vegetables in it.
Shrimp and Grits Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Gather around the table and enjoy the rich flavors and homely feel. Shrimp and Grits Casserole is a delightful Southern-inspired dish that brings comfort food to the next level. It combines tender shrimp with creamy, cheesy grits in a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for a family brunch or dinner. This casserole is both flavorful and filling, making it a hit for any Father’s Day meal.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Casserole

Garlic Shrimp Scampi

Garlic Shrimp Scampi on a bed of rice in a black oval dish.
Garlic Shrimp Scampi. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Garlic Shrimp Scampi is a quick and easy dish that packs a punch with its bold garlic flavor and tender shrimp. It’s perfect for dads who love seafood and appreciate a meal that comes together in minutes. Serve it over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. This dish is ideal for a lighter, yet flavorful dinner.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Shrimp Scampi

Baja Fish Tacos

Baja fish tacos on a white plate.
Baja Fish Tacos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Let everyone build their own taco and watch the flavors come alive. It’s a lively, delicious way to celebrate the day. Baja Fish Tacos offers a taste of the coast with its light, crispy fish and fresh toppings. These tacos are colorful and fun, perfect for a festive Father’s Day lunch. They’re easy to assemble and a joy to eat, making them a great choice for a family-style meal.
Get the Recipe: Baja Fish Tacos

Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta

Broccoli Rabe and Sausage in a serving bowl with tomatoes in the background.
Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta is a robust and hearty dish that combines the savory flavors of sausage with the slightly bitter, earthy tones of broccoli rabe. This pasta is both comforting and sophisticated, making it a great main dish for Father’s Day dinner. It’s easy to prepare yet rich in flavors, ensuring a satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta

Chicken Marsala Meatballs

Chicken Marsala Meatballs in a black dish.
Chicken Marsala Meatballs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Serve these meatballs for a Father’s Day feast that’s out of the ordinary. Chicken Marsala Meatballs put a creative twist on the traditional chicken Marsala. They’re perfect for serving over pasta or with a side of mashed potatoes. This dish is hearty, flavorful, and a little gourmet, making it a fantastic way to celebrate.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Marsala Meatballs

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