10 Indulgent Meals You Can Finally Enjoy When the Kids Are Out for the Night

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese in a black bowl
Photo: My Hot Southern Mess

Whether you've shuffled the kids off to summer camp, or they're spending the weekend at their grandparents' house, now is the ideal time to try these recipes while the house is empty. No need to cater to picky palates; you can enjoy these indulgent recipes in peace. From spicy jalapeño chicken enchiladas to loaded blue cheese French fries, these stepped-up dinner recipes are rich and comforting but made just for you.

01 of 11

Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Parmesan Chicken Tenders on a white plate
thedailygourmet

Chicken tenders may often fall into the "kid-friendly" category, but this recipe amps them up to grown up-worthy with the additions of Parmesan and plenty of spices. Serve with marinara for dipping, or serve over a saucy plate of pasta.

02 of 11

Memphis BBQ Pork Totchos

Memphis BBQ Pork Totchos
Allrecipes Magazine

This indulgent recipe doesn't make you choose between comfort foods; it's the ideal mashup of barbeque, nachos, and tater tots.

03 of 11

Rich and Simple French Onion Soup

bowl of french onion soup with spoon and breadd
Laura McLand

Children are notorious for turning up their noses at anything containing onions, so while you're free of them, make a batch of this ultra savory and cheesy French onion soup. "After ordering this soup many times at restaurants, this recipe reproduces precisely what French onion soup is supposed to taste like," says reviewer STEVERAMSEY.

04 of 11

Ultimate Twice Baked Potatoes

Ultimate Twice-Baked Potatoes
bd.weld

You won't have to worry about sharing these scrumptious twice baked potatoes. Each bite is loaded with creamy spuds, crispy bacon, and gooey Cheddar.

05 of 11

Shrimp Scampi with Pasta

pasta with shrimp garnished with parsley on a white plate
naples34102

Buttery, garlicky, and just a bit spicy, what's not to love about this rich shrimp scampi pasta? Since the children aren't around, you can amp up the red pepper flakes and lemon juice to your preferred tastes.

06 of 11

Jalapeño Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas

Jalapeno Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas
BrianP

If you're always catering to a heat-sensitive kid, now is your chance to enjoy an extra spicy dinner. These flavorful enchiladas are made rich with cream cheese, but pack a real punch of heat from fresh jalapeños and cayenne.

07 of 11

St. Louis Toasted Ravioli

St. Louis Toasted Ravioli in a grey bowl
Trusted Brands

Somewhere between dinner and an appetizer, these crispy and crunchy ravioli can act as a meal or an evening snack. Choose your favorite ravioli filling; many reviewers recommend ricotta or beef versions.

08 of 11

Blue Cheese French Fries

Blue Cheese French Fries on a white plate
Soup Loving Nicole

Ranch may be king when it comes to kids, but you can swap in blue cheese on this plate of loaded fries. Balanced out with salty bacon and fresh scallions, it's sure to become your go-to indulgent dish.

09 of 11

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese in a black bowl
My Hot Southern Mess

Macaroni and cheese is already the ultimate comfort food, but here it's given an adult twist with the addition of shredded chicken, hot sauce, and gorgonzola cheese. Reviewer Goosie-Blue raves, "Love love love this stuff! This recipe is very easy to make and tastes delicious!"

10 of 11

Four Cheese Margherita Pizza

Four Cheese Margherita Pizza on a white plate
footballgrl16

Don't settle for ordering a pizza when you can make this decadent four cheese version at home. Customize with your favorite toppings, or go with the recipe's suggested duo of fresh tomatoes and basil leaves.

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