11 Fathers Day Food ideas

Every Father’s Day, I think about the meals my dad made for us. The smell of grilled meats and the laughter at the table were the best. This year, I want to make a special feast for him.

I will share my top 11 Father’s Day recipes with you. These dishes will make your dad’s day unforgettable. You’ll find BBQ classics and gourmet dishes like seared duck breast with cherry sauce.

Each recipe has a list of ingredients and easy steps. Whether you’re an expert or new to cooking, these dishes will make your celebration special.

Fathers Day Food ideas

Grilled Chicken Skewers

Grilled chicken skewers are a fun and tasty way to start Father’s Day. This recipe combines juicy chicken and colorful veggies. It’s perfect for a fun outdoor party. Plus, it’s easy to make and will impress everyone.

To make these tasty grilled chicken skewers, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp pepper
  • Skewers (wooden or metal)
Kardea Brown's Jerk-Inspired Chicken and Pineapple Skewers | Delicious Miss Brown | Food Network

First, mix olive oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Then, add the cubed chicken. Make sure each piece is well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor.

After that, thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. Add your favorite veggies for color and taste.

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill when it’s ready. Cook for 10-15 minutes, turning them now and then. The chicken should be cooked through and reach 165°F. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for a memorable Father’s Day meal.

BBQ Brisket Tacos

BBQ brisket tacos are my top pick for Father’s Day. They mix tender brisket with fresh toppings. It’s a hit at summer gatherings, bringing everyone together.

To start, you’ll need:

  • 2 lbs beef brisket
  • 2 tbsp cumin
  • 2 tbsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 small corn tortillas
  • 1 cup coleslaw (optional)
  • BBQ sauce for serving

Season the brisket with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Slow-cook it until it’s tender. Then, shred it and put it in warm tortillas. Add coleslaw for crunch and BBQ sauce for flavor.

These brisket tacos are a great choice for Father’s Day. They show off my favorite BBQ recipes. Sharing them with family makes the day special.

brisket tacos

Baked Ziti

Baked ziti is a classic Italian dish that warms the heart. It’s great for Father’s Day because it’s full of cheesy goodness and meat. The pasta, sauce, and cheese mix together to make a taste that everyone loves.

14 Perfect Father’s Day Party Recipes
IngredientAmount
Ziti pasta1 lb
Marinara sauce2 cups
Ground beef or Italian sausage1 lb
Ricotta cheese1 cup
Shredded mozzarella cheese2 cups
Grated Parmesan cheese1/2 cup
Italian seasoning1 tsp
Salt and pepperTo taste

As I make my baked ziti, the smell fills the air. It’s a sign that our Italian dish is ready. The cheese and sauce make it a hearty, memorable meal. It’s perfect for Father’s Day with family.

Seared Duck Breast with Cherry Sauce

For gourmet Father’s Day meals, I choose a duck breast recipe. It’s elegant and delicious. Seared duck breast with cherry sauce is a perfect mix of flavors.

This dish highlights the tender duck meat. It also uses a tasty cherry sauce that goes well with it. Here’s what you need:

  • 2 duck breasts
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup pitted cherries (fresh or frozen)
  • 1/2 cup red wine
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey

First, season the duck breasts with salt and pepper. Then, sear them in a hot pan until the skin is crispy. For the sauce, mix cherries, red wine, balsamic vinegar, and honey in a saucepan. Let it simmer and thicken while the duck cooks.

duck breast recipe

Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Pulled pork sandwiches are a great choice for Father’s Day. They are tender, slow-cooked pork with BBQ sauce. This makes a tasty filling for hamburger buns.

I love this recipe because it’s easy and full of flavor. Here’s what you need for this tasty meal:

  • 3 lbs pork shoulder
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 1 cup apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Hamburger buns for serving

First, season the pork with salt and pepper. Put it in a slow cooker with onion and vinegar. Cook on low for 8 hours.

When it’s almost done, shred the pork with two forks. Mix it with BBQ sauce. Serve it on warm buns for yummy BBQ sandwiches.

Recipe of the Day: Slow-Cooker Pulled Pork | Trisha's Southern Kitchen | Food Network

Chicken and Waffles

On Father’s Day, I love to treat my family to a special brunch. Chicken and waffles are perfect for this. They mix savory and sweet flavors in a comforting way.

This dish is great for Father’s Day brunch ideas. It’s not just tasty but also festive.

To make these tasty chicken and waffles, I use a simple recipe. The crispy fried chicken goes well with fluffy waffles. It’s a favorite comfort food of mine.

  • Marinate 2 lbs of chicken pieces (drumsticks and thighs) in 1 cup of buttermilk for at least two hours to keep the meat juicy.
  • Prepare the breading by mixing 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 tsp of baking powder, and 1/2 tsp of salt.
  • Fry the marinated chicken until golden brown and crispy.
  • Serve alongside warm waffles, either store-bought or made from scratch.
  • Drizzle with maple syrup for that perfect finish.

I serve this dish with bright sides like fruit or a simple salad. Chicken and waffles fill the belly and warm the heart. It’s a cherished family meal on special days.

chicken and waffles

Shrimp and Grits

Shrimp and grits is a favorite in Southern cooking. It’s perfect for Father’s Day dinner. This dish is hearty and comforting, great for family meals.

The recipe is simple but full of flavor. Creamy grits go well with seasoned shrimp and smoky bacon. A few fresh ingredients make a dish that shows off Southern cooking.

shrimp and grits recipe

IngredientsQuantity
Shrimp, peeled and deveined1 lb
Grits1 cup
Water or chicken broth4 cups
Cheddar cheese1/2 cup
Bacon, chopped4 slices
Onion, diced1/2
Salt and pepperTo taste

Try this shrimp and grits recipe for Father’s Day dinner. It’s comforting and joyful. It’s a dish that shows the heart of Southern cooking.

Grilled Sausages with Peppers and Onions

Grilled sausages with peppers and onions are a tasty choice for Father’s Day. They are easy to make and everyone loves them. The sausages’ bold flavors mix well with the sweet peppers and onions.

To make this dish, you’ll need:

  • 1 lb assorted sausages (Italian, bratwurst)
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

First, heat the grill to medium-high. Then, mix the peppers and onions with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place the sausages and the pepper-onion mix on the grill.

Flip the veggies and sausages often. This helps them cook evenly. It takes about 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the sausages.

This dish is not just tasty. It also looks great. It’s perfect for Father’s Day barbecues.

grilled sausages

Baked Salmon with Herb Crust

Baked salmon with an herb crust is a top pick for healthy Father’s Day meals. It’s easy to make and tastes amazing. Salmon is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, making it perfect for a special meal.

baked salmon recipe

  • 2 salmon fillets
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

First, heat your oven to 375°F. Then, mix breadcrumbs, parsley, dill, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Place the salmon on a baking sheet and spread the herb mix on it. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until it’s flaky.

This recipe is not just tasty but also healthy for Father’s Day. Serve it with a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s good for you.

Pork Schnitzel

Pork schnitzel is a favorite in German food. It makes any meal warm and satisfying. It’s perfect for Father’s Day dinner ideas, making it a great choice for the family.

To make this classic dish, you need the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 lb pork loin, sliced thin
  • 1 cup flour
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Vegetable oil for frying

The dish is simple yet flavorful. The pork loin is coated in flour, then eggs, and finally breadcrumbs. This makes it crispy. Frying it in vegetable oil gives it a golden-brown look.

Serving pork schnitzel is fun. Try it with potato salad or sautéed veggies for a full meal. It’s not just a dinner; it’s a taste of German culture for any special day.

pork schnitzel recipe

Chicken Parmesan

Chicken parmesan is a favorite for many. It’s a mix of crispy chicken, melted mozzarella, and rich sauce. It’s perfect for Father’s Day.

I start with two thin chicken breasts. I coat them in flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. This makes the outside crispy and the inside tender.

After baking, I add marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. Then, I broil it until the cheese is bubbly and brown. This adds great flavor.

Before serving, I sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top. Chicken parmesan is a hit at any meal. It’s a dish that brings everyone together.

FAQ

What are some quick Father’s Day food ideas for a last-minute celebration?

For a quick fix, try grilled sausages with peppers, BBQ brisket tacos, or pulled pork sandwiches. They’re easy to make and full of flavor that dads will enjoy.

How can I ensure my grilled chicken skewers are juicy and flavorful?

Marinate the chicken in olive oil, soy sauce, honey, and garlic for 30 minutes. Cook the skewers over medium heat to keep them moist.

What sides pair well with baked ziti for a complete Father’s Day meal?

Garlic bread and a fresh garden salad go great with baked ziti. They add texture and freshness to the pasta.

Can I prepare the pulled pork sandwiches in advance?

Yes, you can make pulled pork sandwiches ahead of time. Slow-cook the pork, shred it, and mix with BBQ sauce. Store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Is there a family-friendly version of seared duck breast?

If your family doesn’t like duck, try searing chicken breasts with cherry sauce. It’s easier to find and kids might like it more.

What are some variations for chicken and waffles?

Try different chicken or waffles for a twist. Use buttermilk biscuits or sweet potato waffles. Add hot sauce or honey for extra flavor.

How do I make shrimp and grits creamier?

For creamier grits, use chicken broth instead of water. Add cheese and heavy cream at the end for better texture.

What types of sausages work best for grilling?

Italian sausages and bratwurst are great for grilling. They’re flavorful and go well with onions and bell peppers. You can also offer gourmet sausages for more taste.

What can I substitute for salmon if someone prefers another option?

If you don’t like salmon, use white fish like tilapia or cod. Cook them with an herb crust for a healthy choice.

How do I make pork schnitzel crispy?

For crispy pork schnitzel, use a three-step breading: flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. Fry in hot vegetable oil for a golden crust.

Can I make chicken parmesan in advance?

Yes, you can bread and prepare chicken breasts ahead. Store them in the fridge. Bake them just before serving for a crispy finish.

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