Delicious Recipes to Cook for Dad on Father’s Day

He loves a sizzling steak, saucy ribs, or a sweet dessert, this article presents 11 dad-approved recipes inspired by Damn Delicious’ “15 Best Father’s Day Recipes to Celebrate Dad. These dishes, spanning appetizers, mains, sides, breakfast, desserts, and drinks, are designed to be approachable yet impressive, perfect for cooks of all skill levels. With detailed instructions, ingredient lists, and tips, you’ll be ready to create a memorable Father’s Day feast that Dad will love. Let’s dive into these mouthwatering recipes!

Why Cook for Dad on Father’s Day?

Cooking for Dad is a meaningful gesture that goes beyond food—it’s a way to express gratitude for his love, support, and guidance. Thoughtfully prepared meal can bring the family together, spark joy, and create lasting memories. These 11 recipes are curated to suit a variety of tastes, from hearty comfort foods to refreshing drinks, ensuring there’s something for every dad. Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue, a cozy brunch, or a full dinner spread, this guide has you covered.

Appetizers to Start the Celebration

Kick off Father’s Day with appetizers that are easy to prepare and packed with bold flavors to get everyone excited for the meal ahead.

1. Loaded Nachos Supreme

Crowd-pleasing starter, these nachos are perfect for dads who love bold, shareable snacks.

Ingredients (Serves 6):

• 1 bag (12 oz) tortilla chips
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup sliced black olives
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• Sour cream and guacamole for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat and stir in taco seasoning with 1/4 cup water. Simmer until thickened, about 3 minutes.
3. Spread tortilla chips on the baking sheet. Top with beef, black beans, and cheeses.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Top with jalapeños, tomatoes, olives, and green onions. Serve with sour cream and guacamole.

Tips:

• Customize with Dad’s favorite toppings, like pickled onions or salsa.
• For a vegetarian option, replace beef with sautéed mushrooms.

Main Courses to Impress Dad

The main course is the centerpiece of your Father’s Day menu. These dishes are hearty, flavorful, and sure to earn Dad’s approval.

2. Perfect Skillet Ribeye Steak

Described by Damn Delicious as “the best skillet steak EVER,” this recipe delivers a juicy ribeye in just 10-13 minutes.

Ingredients (Serves 2):

• 2 ribeye steaks (1-inch thick, about 12 oz each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, smashed
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme

Instructions:

1. Pat steaks dry and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over high heat until smoking.
3. Sear steaks for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare (135°F internal temperature).
4. Add butter, garlic, and thyme. Tilt pan and spoon butter over steaks for 1 minute.
5. Let steaks rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with pan juices.

Tips:

• Use a meat thermometer: 130°F for rare, 140°F for medium.
• Pair with a chimichurri sauce for extra zest.

3. Instant Pot BBQ Ribs

These fall-off-the-bone ribs are a Dad favorite, made easy in the Instant Pot.

Ingredients (Serves 4):

• 2 racks baby back ribs (about 3 lbs)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup barbecue sauce, divided
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup water

Instructions:

1. Remove membrane from ribs. Mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, pepper, and salt. Rub over ribs.
2. Place trivet in Instant Pot, add vinegar and water. Stand ribs upright on trivet.
3. Seal lid and cook on high pressure for 25 minutes. Natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release.
4. Preheat oven broiler. Brush ribs with 1/2 cup barbecue sauce and broil for 3-5 minutes until caramelized.
5. Slice and serve with remaining sauce.

Tips:

• Add a few drops of liquid smoke for a smokier flavor.
• Serve with coleslaw or cornbread.

4. Guinness Beef Stew

This rich, hearty stew is perfect for a cozy Father’s Day dinner, silencing the table with its deep flavors.

Ingredients (Serves 6):

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 can (14.9 oz) Guinness stout
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 2 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, cubed
• 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Season beef with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown beef in batches, about 5 minutes per batch. Set aside.
2. Sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add Guinness, scraping up browned bits.
4. Return beef to pot with broth, bay leaves, and thyme. Simmer for 1.5 hours.
5. Add potatoes and cook for 30 minutes, until tender. Stir in cornstarch slurry to thicken.
6. Remove bay leaves, garnish with parsley, and serve.

Tips:

• Make ahead to deepen flavors.
• Serve with crusty bread.

Sides to Round Out the Meal

These sides complement the mains perfectly, adding variety and flavor to the Father’s Day spread.

5. Crispy Garlic Parmesan Potatoes

A Damn Delicious fan favorite, these crispy potatoes are golden outside and fluffy inside.

Ingredients (Serves 4):

• 2 lbs baby Yukon gold potatoes, halved
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, Parmesan, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange potatoes cut-side down on the baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden.
4. Garnish with parsley and serve.

Tips:

• Broil for 2 minutes for extra crunch.
• Swap Parmesan for cheddar for variety.

6. Creamy Coleslaw

This refreshing coleslaw pairs perfectly with rich mains like ribs or stew.

Ingredients (Serves 6):

• 1/2 head green cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1/2 head red cabbage, thinly sliced
• 2 carrots, shredded
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Combine cabbage and carrots in a large bowl.
2. Whisk mayonnaise, vinegar, honey, mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
3. Pour dressing over vegetables and toss. Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.

Tips:

• Add apples or raisins for a sweet twist.
• Make a day ahead for better flavor.

Breakfast and Brunch for a Morning Celebration

For dads who love starting the day with a hearty meal, these breakfast options are sure to delight.

7. Steak and Eggs with Herb Sauce

This indulgent breakfast combines tender steak with eggs and a vibrant herb sauce.

Ingredients (Serves 2):

• 2 New York strip steaks (8 oz each)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar

Instructions:

1. Season steaks with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over high heat. Sear steaks for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Set aside to rest.
2. In the same skillet, cook eggs sunny-side-up, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Mix parsley, cilantro, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar for herb sauce.
4. Slice steaks and serve with eggs, drizzled with herb sauce.

Tips:

• Serve with toasted sourdough.
• Swap steak for grilled chicken for a lighter option.

8. Fluffy Blueberry Pancakes

These pancakes, loved by thousands, are a sweet morning treat for Dad.

Ingredients (Serves 4):

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• Maple syrup for serving

Instructions:

1. Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
2. In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, butter, and vanilla. Combine with dry ingredients.
3. Fold in blueberries.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup batter per pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden.
5. Serve with maple syrup.

Tips:

• Freeze pancakes for quick reheating.
• Add whipped cream for indulgence.

Desserts to Sweeten the Day

End the meal with a dessert that satisfies Dad’s sweet tooth.

9. Fudgy Chocolate Brownies

These brownies strike the perfect fudgy-fluffy balance for chocolate lovers.

Ingredients (Serves 9):

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper.
2. Whisk butter and sugar. Add eggs and vanilla.
3. Sift in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir until combined. Fold in chocolate chips.
4. Pour batter into pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, until a toothpick has moist crumbs.
5. Cool before cutting.

Tips:

• Add nuts for texture.
• Serve warm with ice cream.

Drinks to Toast Dad

Raise a glass to Dad with these refreshing beverages.

10. Classic Old Fashioned

Sophisticated cocktail for dads who enjoy a strong drink.

Ingredients (Serves 1):

• 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
• 1 tsp sugar
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• 1 tsp water
• Orange peel for garnish
• Ice

Instructions:

1. Muddle sugar, bitters, and water in a glass until sugar dissolves.
2. Add whiskey and a large ice cube. Stir gently.
3. Garnish with orange peel.

Tips:

• Use high-quality whiskey.
• Add a cherry for a classic touch.

11. Sparkling Lemonade

Refreshing, family-friendly drink for all to enjoy.

Ingredients (Serves 4):

• 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4 lemons)
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 3 cups sparkling water
• Ice
• Lemon slices and mint for garnish

Instructions:

1. Stir lemon juice and sugar in a pitcher until sugar dissolves.
2. Add sparkling water and stir gently.
3. Serve over ice with lemon slices and mint.

Tips:

• Add raspberry puree for a colorful twist.
• Make a big batch for refills.

Planning the Perfect Father’s Day Menu

To create a balanced Father’s Day meal, consider Dad’s preferences and mix flavors and textures. Here’s a sample menu:

• Appetizer: Loaded Nachos Supreme
• Main: Perfect Skillet Ribeye Steak
• Sides: Crispy Garlic Parmesan Potatoes and Creamy Coleslaw
• Dessert: Fudgy Chocolate Brownies
• Drink: Classic Old Fashioned or Sparkling Lemonade

Tips for Success:

• Prep ingredients ahead to save time.
• Involve family members for a fun group effort.
• Set a festive table with Dad’s favorite music.

Why These Recipes Work for Father’s Day

These 11 recipes, inspired by Damn Delicious, are ideal because they’re:

• Dad-Centric: Bold flavors like steak and ribs appeal to classic dad tastes.
• Accessible: Simple instructions and common ingredients suit all cooks.
• Versatile: Options for breakfast, lunch, or dinner fit any schedule.
• Memorable: High-quality dishes create a special experience.

Father’s Day 2025 is a chance to celebrate Dad with a delicious, home-cooked meal that reflects his tastes and your appreciation. From loaded nachos to fudgy brownies, these 11 recipes offer variety and flavor to make the day unforgettable. By preparing these dishes, you’re creating moments of joy and connection that Dad will treasure. Grab your apron, fire up the kitchen, and make this Father’s Day a delicious success. Happy Father’s Day!

FAQs

What are some easy Father’s Day recipes to cook at home?

Some easy Father’s Day recipes include grilled steak, cheesy omelets, BBQ chicken, pasta with garlic bread, and homemade burgers. Quick and tasty!

What is a good breakfast recipe for Father’s Day?

A hearty Father’s Day breakfast could include pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausages, and fresh juice. Add coffee and toast for a complete meal.

Are there healthy Father’s Day recipes?

Yes! Try grilled salmon, quinoa salad, roasted veggies, or fruit smoothies. Healthy Father’s Day recipes can be both nutritious and delicious.

What are the best desserts for Father’s Day?

Top dessert picks include chocolate lava cake, brownies, apple pie, and ice cream sundaes. These Father’s Day recipes are perfect for a sweet ending.

Can kids help with Father’s Day recipes?

Kids can help with simple tasks like mixing, decorating, or setting up a Father’s Day breakfast in bed. It makes the meal more special.