Either make something very simple and, if at all possible, that can be done ahead of time (think crockpot or casserole). Alternatively, you could have something that requires everyone to help (make you own personal pizza, or a taco bar). Either way, you want to be able to be the master of ceremonies for the conversation rather than stressed out in the kitchen when all hell is breaking loose.

So, a last minute thing. My girlfriend came over to hang out, my family was home... Didn't go well... AT ALL. This is why I hate last minute plans. lol SO... I'm wanting to plan a dinner, make sure everyone is there and hope it goes better this time.

What should I cook? It's for 5 people. And, I'll have to do another dinner when my mother comes to visit in a couple weeks. I need to buy some childproof things, because her daughter is 3. What do I cook, though? I never cook big dinners so I'm clueless...