For the longest time, I convinced myself that Sunday dinners weren’t worth the effort. As someone living alone, the thought of spending hours in the kitchen preparing an elaborate meal just for myself seemed excessive. The dishes, the prep work, the cleanup — it all felt like too much when I could simply order takeout or whip up a quick sandwich.

But then I stumbled upon Natasha Greene’s TikTok, (@asiliglamcooks) and everything changed. There she was, preparing the most decadent Sunday dinner for her family — smothered chicken breasts swimming in homemade gravy, candied yams that glistened with sweetness, creamy homemade mac and cheese that looked like it could comfort any soul and a moist lemon olive oil cake that had me practically drooling through my screen. What caught my attention wasn’t just the food — it was the love and intention behind every dish.

Watching her tend to each component of the meal, seasoning with precision and tasting along the way, reminded me of what Sunday dinners are truly about. They’re not just about feeding ourselves; they’re about creating moments of joy, even if it’s just for one. Her video sparked something in me — a desire to reclaim this tradition and make it my own, to treat myself with the same care and attention I would show to a table full of guests.

For those inspired as well, we’ve rounded up a few tips to keep in mind for your Sunday feast.

@asiliglamcooks

Sunday dinner, with love 💕

♬ Nothing Can Change This Love – Sam Cooke

Hosting Tips for a Stress-Free Sunday Dinner

• Plan Your Menu in Advance: Create a menu at least a week ahead and make your shopping list early. This gives you time to source all ingredients and prep certain components ahead.
• Prep What You Can: Chop vegetables, prepare marinades, and measure ingredients the day before. Some dishes, like desserts, can often be made a day ahead without compromising quality.
• Create a Timeline: Work backward from your desired serving time to plan when each dish needs to start cooking. Include time for the table setting and your own preparation.
• Set the Mood: Don’t forget ambiance – create a playlist, set a beautiful table, and consider lighting. These details make the experience more special for everyone.
• Accept Help: When guests offer to bring something, let them! This not only takes some pressure off you but also makes them feel part of the experience.
• Keep It Simple: Focus on one showstopper dish and complement it with simpler sides. Not every component needs to be complex to be delicious.