15 Classic French Dinner Recipes You Can Make at Home

French cuisine is celebrated for its rich flavors, elegant presentation, and timeless techniques.

With these 15 French dinner recipes, you can bring the taste of France into your own kitchen.

From classic coq au vin and ratatouille to creamy gratins and buttery pastries, these dishes showcase the depth and variety of French cooking.

Whether you’re preparing a cozy weeknight meal or an impressive dinner for guests, each recipe is designed to be approachable, flavorful, and authentic.

Elevate your dinners with these delicious French-inspired creations that will impress every palate.

15 Classic French Dinner Recipes You Can Make at Home

Cooking French dinners at home doesn’t have to be intimidating.

These 15 French dinner recipes offer a mix of classic and modern dishes to bring gourmet flavors to your table.

From hearty stews to delicate vegetable dishes, each recipe provides rich taste, balanced textures, and memorable presentation.

By using fresh ingredients and simple techniques, you can enjoy the elegance of French cuisine without leaving your kitchen.

Treat yourself and your guests to authentic, flavorful French dinners that celebrate tradition and creativity.

Coq au Vin (Chicken in Red Wine)

Coq au Vin is a classic French dish featuring chicken slowly braised in red wine with aromatic vegetables.

This hearty, flavorful meal combines tender meat, earthy mushrooms, and a rich sauce that embodies traditional French comfort cuisine.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 cup red wine (Burgundy recommended)
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ lb mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Brown chicken thighs on all sides, then remove and set aside.
• Sauté onions, carrots, and garlic until softened.
• Stir in tomato paste and mushrooms, cooking for 2 minutes.
• Add wine, chicken stock, and thyme; bring to a simmer.
• Return chicken to the pan, cover, and cook for 45 minutes until tender.
• Season with salt and pepper, then serve hot with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.

Coq au Vin is a rich, comforting French classic.

Its tender chicken and flavorful wine sauce create an elegant dinner perfect for special occasions or cozy evenings.

Ratatouille (Provencal Vegetable Stew)

Ratatouille is a vibrant French vegetable dish from Provence, full of summer vegetables and aromatic herbs.

It combines eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes into a colorful, flavorful, and wholesome stew.

Ingredients:

• 1 eggplant, diced
• 2 zucchinis, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1 tsp rosemary
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
• Add eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers; cook for 5–7 minutes.
• Stir in tomatoes, thyme, and rosemary, then reduce heat.
• Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes until vegetables are tender.
• Season with salt and pepper, stirring gently.
• Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh basil.

Ratatouille is a colorful, aromatic French vegetable stew.

It’s a healthy, satisfying dinner that highlights the natural flavors of fresh produce.

Beef Bourguignon (Burgundy Beef Stew)

Beef Bourguignon is a slow-cooked French stew with tender beef, red wine, and vegetables.

Its rich, savory flavor and melt-in-your-mouth meat make it a perfect gourmet dinner for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cubed
• 1 cup red wine
• 2 cups beef stock
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ lb mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tbsp flour
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Brown beef cubes on all sides, then remove and set aside.
• Sauté onions, garlic, and carrots until softened.
• Sprinkle flour over vegetables, stirring to coat.
• Add red wine, beef stock, and thyme; bring to a simmer.
• Return beef to the pot and cook covered for 2–3 hours until tender.
• Add mushrooms 30 minutes before serving.
• Season with salt and pepper and serve with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.

Beef Bourguignon is a classic French comfort stew.

Its tender beef and rich wine-infused sauce make it a truly indulgent and satisfying dinner.

Duck à l’Orange

Duck à l’Orange is a French classic featuring roasted duck with a tangy, sweet orange sauce.

The combination of crispy skin and citrus glaze creates a sophisticated and flavorful dinner experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole duck (4–5 lbs)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup orange juice
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp orange zest
• 2 tbsp butter

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Season duck with salt and pepper, then roast for 1.5–2 hours until skin is golden and crisp.
• In a small saucepan, melt sugar and vinegar until caramelized.
• Add orange juice and simmer for 5 minutes.
• Mix cornstarch with water, then stir into sauce to thicken.
• Stir in butter and orange zest, removing from heat.
• Serve duck sliced with the orange sauce drizzled over.

Duck à l’Orange is a sophisticated, flavorful French dinner.

The crispy skin and citrus sauce create a perfect balance of sweet and savory.

Gratin Dauphinois (Creamy Potato Gratin)

Gratin Dauphinois is a classic French potato dish baked in cream and garlic until golden and tender.

It’s a rich, comforting side or main dish that embodies the elegance of French home cooking.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs potatoes, thinly sliced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp butter, for greasing

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and butter a baking dish.
• Layer sliced potatoes evenly in the dish.
• Mix cream, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper; pour over potatoes.
• Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
• Remove foil and bake another 15 minutes until top is golden brown.
• Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Gratin Dauphinois is creamy, tender, and full of flavor.

It’s a comforting French classic that pairs beautifully with meats or can be enjoyed on its own

Bouillabaisse (Provençal Fish Stew)

Bouillabaisse is a traditional French seafood stew from Marseille, bursting with aromatic herbs and fresh fish.

This flavorful dish combines various fish, shellfish, and vegetables simmered in a saffron-infused broth for a gourmet experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb firm white fish (cod, halibut), cut into chunks
• ½ lb mussels, cleaned
• ½ lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups fish stock
• ½ tsp saffron threads
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

• Heat olive oil in a large pot and sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
• Add tomatoes, fish stock, saffron, and thyme; bring to a simmer.
• Add fish chunks and cook for 5–7 minutes.
• Add shrimp and mussels, cooking until shellfish opens and seafood is tender.
• Season with salt and pepper and serve hot with crusty bread.

Bouillabaisse is a rich, aromatic French seafood stew.

It’s a sophisticated dinner full of flavor, perfect for seafood lovers seeking an authentic French experience.

Cassoulet (Slow-Cooked Bean and Meat Casserole)

Cassoulet is a hearty, slow-cooked French dish featuring beans, sausage, and meat, perfect for a comforting dinner.

It combines savory flavors and tender ingredients, showcasing the depth of rustic French cooking.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried white beans, soaked overnight
• 1 lb pork sausage
• ½ lb duck or chicken, cut into pieces
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
• Heat olive oil in a skillet and brown meat and sausage; remove and set aside.
• Sauté onions and garlic until softened, then stir in tomato paste and thyme.
• Combine meat, beans, stock, and sautéed vegetables in a casserole dish.
• Cover and bake for 2–3 hours until beans are tender and flavors meld.
• Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Cassoulet is a comforting, rich French casserole.

Its slow-cooked flavors and hearty ingredients make it a perfect cozy dinner for family and guests.

Poulet Rôti (Classic French Roast Chicken)

Poulet Rôti is a simple yet elegant French roast chicken with crispy skin and tender, juicy meat.

It’s a versatile dinner that pairs beautifully with vegetables or potatoes.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (4–5 lbs)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1 tsp rosemary
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 lemon, halved

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Rub chicken with olive oil, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
• Place lemon halves inside the cavity of the chicken.
• Roast for 1.5–2 hours until skin is golden and juices run clear.
• Let rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.

Poulet Rôti is a classic French roast with crispy, flavorful skin.

Its simplicity and elegance make it an ideal dinner for both casual meals and special occasions.

Quiche Lorraine

Quiche Lorraine is a savory French tart with a creamy custard, bacon, and cheese filling.

It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for dinner, brunch, or a light meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 pre-made pie crust
• 4 eggs
• 1 cup milk or cream
• ½ cup grated Gruyère cheese
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a pie dish with the crust.
• In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
• Sprinkle bacon and cheese evenly over the crust.
• Pour the egg mixture over the bacon and cheese.
• Bake for 35–40 minutes until the custard is set and golden.

Quiche Lorraine is creamy, savory, and rich in flavor.

It’s a versatile French dish perfect for dinner or any meal of the day.

Moules Marinières (Mussels in White Wine Sauce)

Moules Marinières is a classic French seafood dish featuring fresh mussels cooked in white wine, garlic, and herbs.

It’s light, flavorful, and a perfect elegant dinner with minimal effort.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs fresh mussels, cleaned
• ½ cup dry white wine
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 shallot, chopped
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

• In a large pot, melt butter and sauté garlic and shallots until fragrant.
• Add white wine and bring to a simmer.
• Add mussels, cover, and cook for 5–7 minutes until shells open.
• Discard any unopened mussels and season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
• Serve hot with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Moules Marinières is a light, aromatic French seafood dinner.

Its tender mussels and savory white wine sauce make it an elegant and flavorful meal for any occasion.

Tarte Tatin (Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart)

Tarte Tatin is a French savory twist on the classic dessert tart, using caramelized onions and creamy goat cheese.

It’s a rich, flavorful dish perfect as a light dinner or elegant appetizer.

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet puff pastry
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• ½ cup crumbled goat cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp fresh thyme

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté onions with balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper until caramelized, about 15–20 minutes.
• Remove from heat and stir in thyme.
• Transfer onions to an ovenproof skillet and sprinkle goat cheese on top.
• Cover with puff pastry, tucking edges down.
• Bake for 25–30 minutes until pastry is golden brown.
• Let cool slightly, then invert onto a serving plate.

Tarte Tatin is a beautifully caramelized, savory French tart.

Its sweet and tangy onions with creamy goat cheese make it a perfect elegant dinner or starter.

Salmon en Papillote (Salmon in Parchment)

Salmon en Papillote is a classic French method of cooking fish in parchment, locking in moisture and flavor.

It’s a light, healthy, and aromatic dinner perfect for a simple yet elegant meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 1 zucchini, julienned
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp fresh dill
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Parchment paper

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Place salmon fillets on a parchment sheet.
• Top with lemon slices, zucchini, carrot, olive oil, dill, salt, and pepper.
• Fold parchment into a sealed packet.
• Bake for 12–15 minutes until salmon is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
• Serve directly in the parchment for presentation.

Salmon en Papillote is tender, flavorful, and aromatic.

Its moist fish and lightly cooked vegetables make a healthy and elegant French dinner.

Steak Frites (French Steak with Fries)

Steak Frites is a classic French bistro dish featuring a perfectly cooked steak served with golden, crispy fries.

It’s simple, satisfying, and beloved for its bold flavors and elegant presentation.

Ingredients:

• 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 large potatoes, cut into fries
• 1 tsp fresh thyme
• 1 tbsp butter (optional)

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake fries with olive oil and thyme for 25–30 minutes until golden.
• Heat a skillet over high heat and sear steaks 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare, adjusting time for desired doneness.
• Let steaks rest for 5 minutes before serving.
• Serve with hot, crispy fries on the side.

Steak Frites is a simple yet indulgent French classic.

The juicy steak paired with golden fries creates a satisfying dinner with traditional French flair.

Poulet Basquaise (Basque-Style Chicken)

Poulet Basquaise is a flavorful French dish featuring chicken simmered with bell peppers, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs.

It’s a colorful, comforting, and hearty dinner inspired by the Basque region.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown chicken on all sides.
• Remove chicken and sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers until softened.
• Add tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper; return chicken to the skillet.
• Cover and simmer for 35–40 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
• Serve hot with rice, potatoes, or crusty bread.

Poulet Basquaise is savory, colorful, and full of French flavors.

The tender chicken with rich pepper-tomato sauce makes a satisfying and elegant dinner.

Confit de Canard (Duck Confit)

Confit de Canard is a traditional French dish of slow-cooked duck legs in their own fat for rich, tender meat.

It’s a luxurious, flavorful dinner with crispy skin and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Ingredients:

• 2 duck legs
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 tsp fresh thyme
• 2 cups duck fat or olive oil

Instructions:

• Rub duck legs with salt, pepper, garlic, and thyme; refrigerate overnight.
• Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C) and submerge duck legs in duck fat in a baking dish.
• Bake covered for 2–3 hours until meat is tender.
• Remove from fat and crisp skin in a hot skillet before serving.

Confit de Canard is tender, rich, and full of French tradition.

Its crispy exterior and succulent interior make it a gourmet dinner that impresses at any table.