Top Tips for Cooking for Two People

Cooking for smaller households can be challenging. For empty nesters, it can feel like a new adventure after years of cooking for the family. Young couples just starting out might also find it an adjustment as they start learning how to cook together making smaller servings to avoid food waste. Here are my top tips for cooking for two.

Know your portion sizes

One of the biggest challenges when cooking for two is figuring out smaller portions. In my early days of cooking, I would make four pork chops for the two of us because that’s what the recipe said to use, never mind that one pork chop per person was all we needed; so we often ended up too much food!

Even though most recipes are written for four or more people, it’s pretty easy to adjust the ingredients. If a recipe calls for one pound of chicken for a recipe for four, use half a pound and reduce the remaining ingredients in the recipe as well. In addition, most online recipe sites have an option to adjust the serving sizes, so you don’t have to do the math.

Plan your meals

One of the best ways to make for cooking two easy is to create a weekly menu. It is so helpful to have your meals planned ahead of time. It’s one less thing to think about at the end of the day especially if you like to prepare healthy meals; you won’t be tempted to call for takeout.

Once you get into the habit of meal planning for two, it doesn’t take much time at all. Start by thinking about your favorite meals. Jot them down so that you have a go-to list. Then add in some new recipes, and mix it up with different dishes that you make less often.

Keep it simple

Using easy recipes with few ingredients that are quick to make saves time and cuts down on the need to buy extra items that you don’t regularly use. One-pan and one-pot meals are a great idea for a simple and satisfying meal. They typically require fewer ingredients, and since they are made in one pan, there are fewer dishes to wash which makes clean-up a breeze.

Make the most of leftovers

Some meals such as stew, soup or slow cooker meals are meant for leftovers, they always taste better the next day and they freeze well. So don’t be afraid to make your favorite stew recipe. Also, when you have time, purposely make leftovers. I like to grill extra chicken breasts, they can be tossed into a salad for lunch or used in a casserole or soup.

Don’t forget to include leftover ideas when you are planning your meals. They can save time and with a bit of creativity, you can turn one meal into something totally different the next night.

Shop smart

Before you go grocery shopping, check your weekly menu and jot down a grocery list. A list will keep you focused and help you to only buy what you need.

Buy smaller packages of food items, but, if there is a sale on items that can be stored or frozen, go for bulk buying to save money. When you get home, freeze the items that can be frozen in individual or two portions for future use.

When shopping for perishable food like produce, only buy what you need. This is probably one of the more difficult things to adjust to since fresh produce spoils quickly.

Use your Freezer

When cooking for two, your freezer can be extremely helpful. You can use it to store leftovers or food items that you purchase in bulk such as meats, vegetables and even some pantry items.

One important thing to remember, when preparing food for the freezer, don’t forget to freeze it in portion sizes for one or two people. I like to use Pyrex containers or Stasher bags or freezer bags for this. When it’s time to cook, you can just grab a portion, defrost it, heat it up, and enjoy.

Downsize your cookware and tools

Using the right sized cookware, such as smaller pans and pots, casserole dishes, gadgets and kitchen appliances can help to make meal prep for two a breeze as well as save some space in your kitchen. You don’t need to toss our your larger sized kitchen equipment right away. Instead, when a chance comes up, replace your older (and larger) cookware items with smaller ones.

Keep your pantry stocked

Think about foods you can quickly grab to make dinner fast such as whole grains, pasta, beans and canned goods available. Also keep a variety of spices that you like on hand to enhance flavors. Make a list and keep your pantry stocked with those items so you’re prepared for a busy day.

Do you have any quick tips for cooking for two? If so, leave a comment below!