11 Best Fall Dinner Recipes for Family Gatherings

Hearty Beef Stew With Root Vegetables

hearty beef stew recipe

Hearty Beef Stew With Root Vegetables is the quintessential comfort food for fall evenings. This rich and savory dish features tender beef, a medley of root vegetables, and aromatic herbs, all simmered together to create a warm and inviting meal. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this stew warms you from the inside out.

Ingredients Quantity
Beef chuck, cut into cubes 2 pounds
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion, chopped 1 large
Garlic, minced 4 cloves
Carrots, diced 3 medium
Potatoes, peeled and diced 4 medium
Parsnips, peeled and diced 2 medium
Celery, diced 2 stalks
Beef broth 4 cups
Tomato paste 2 tablespoons
Bay leaves 2
Fresh thyme 1 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes on all sides, then remove them and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, add onions and garlic, sautéing until softened.
  3. Add carrots, potatoes, parsnips, and celery; cook for about 5 minutes.
  4. Return the beef to the pot, then stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  5. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
  6. Adjust seasoning before serving, and enjoy your hearty stew!
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Creamy Pumpkin Pasta

creamy pumpkin garlic pasta

Creamy Pumpkin Pasta is a delightful fall dish that perfectly captures the season’s flavors. This comforting pasta is coated in a rich and creamy pumpkin sauce, highlighted by a hint of garlic and aromatic spices. It’s not only a filling meal but also a feast for the eyes, showcasing vibrant orange hues that evoke the essence of autumn.

Ingredients Quantity
Pasta (e.g., fettuccine) 12 ounces
Pumpkin puree 1 cup
Heavy cream 1 cup
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Parmesan cheese, grated 1/2 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Sage leaves, chopped 2 tablespoons
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions; reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, sage, salt, pepper, and nutmeg; let it simmer until heated through.
  4. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, mixing well. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
  5. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, and mix until creamy. Serve immediately and enjoy!
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Apple Cider Glazed Roasted Chicken

apple cider glazed chicken

Apple Cider Glazed Roasted Chicken is a mouthwatering autumn dish that brings together the savory and sweet flavors of roasted chicken and a rich apple cider glaze. This recipe captures the essence of fall with its aromatic herbs and warm spices, resulting in a juicy, tender chicken that pairs beautifully with seasonal sides.

Ingredients Quantity
Whole chicken (about 4 lbs) 1
Apple cider 1 cup
Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons
Brown sugar 1/4 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Fresh rosemary, chopped 2 tablespoons
Fresh thyme, chopped 2 tablespoons
Garlic, minced 4 cloves
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix together apple cider, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, and black pepper to create the glaze.
  3. Pat the chicken dry and place it in a roasting pan. Brush the glaze generously over the chicken, reserving some for basting.
  4. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, basting with the glaze every 20 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  5. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serve with seasonal sides. Enjoy!
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Stuffed Acorn Squash With Quinoa and Cranberries

stuffed acorn squash recipe

Stuffed Acorn Squash With Quinoa and Cranberries is a delightful vegetarian dish that embodies the flavors of fall. The sweet, nutty acorn squash is roasted to perfection and filled with a hearty mixture of quinoa, tart cranberries, and savory spices. This recipe not only makes for a vibrant presentation but also offers a nutritious and satisfying meal that is perfect for chilly autumn evenings.

Ingredients Quantity
Acorn squash 2
Quinoa 1 cup
Vegetable broth 2 cups
Dried cranberries 1/2 cup
Chopped onion 1
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Chopped walnuts (optional) 1/2 cup
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) 2 tablespoons

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Halve the acorn squashes and scoop out the seeds.
  2. Brush the inside of each half with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and place them cut side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
  3. In a pot, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the quinoa is cooked.
  4. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until translucent. Add cooked quinoa, cranberries, cinnamon, and season with salt and pepper. Stir well to combine.
  5. Flip the roasted squash halves and fill each with the quinoa mixture. If desired, top with chopped walnuts.
  6. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!
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Savory Wild Mushroom Risotto

creamy mushroom risotto recipe

Savory Wild Mushroom Risotto is a rich and creamy dish that brings the earthy flavors of wild mushrooms and the comforting texture of Arborio rice together in perfect harmony. This Italian classic is enhanced with white wine and finished with Parmesan cheese, making it an ideal dish for a cozy fall dinner.

Ingredients Quantity
Arborio rice 1 cup
Wild mushrooms (variety of your choice) 2 cups, chopped
Vegetable or chicken broth 4 cups
Onion 1, finely chopped
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
White wine 1/2 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Butter 2 tablespoons
Grated Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup
Fresh parsley, chopped 2 tablespoons
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a saucepan, heat the broth and keep it simmering over low heat.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
  3. Add the wild mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown.
  4. Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for an additional minute until the rice is lightly toasted.
  5. Pour in the white wine, stirring until it’s mostly absorbed.
  6. Begin adding the simmering broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently and allowing each addition to be absorbed before adding the next, cooking for about 20 minutes.
  7. Once the rice is creamy and al dente, remove from heat and stir in the remaining butter and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your savory wild mushroom risotto!
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Butternut Squash and Sage Bisque

butternut squash sage bisque

Butternut Squash and Sage Bisque is a velvety and smooth soup that combines the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the aromatic essence of fresh sage. This delightful bisque is perfect for warming up during crisp fall evenings and can be served as a starter or a comforting main course.

Ingredients Quantity
Butternut squash 1 medium, peeled and cubed
Onion 1, chopped
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Fresh sage 6-8 leaves, chopped
Vegetable or chicken broth 4 cups
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Heavy cream 1/2 cup
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Nutmeg A pinch

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast on a baking sheet for about 25-30 minutes until tender.
  2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft.
  3. Stir in the roasted squash and chopped sage, then pour in the broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes.
  4. Blend the mixture using an immersion blender or in batches in a regular blender until smooth.
  5. Stir in the heavy cream and nutmeg, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with additional sage if desired. Enjoy your delicious butternut squash and sage bisque!
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Classic Shepherd’s Pie

hearty comfort food dish

Classic Shepherd’s Pie is a traditional British dish that combines savory ground meat with vegetables, topped with a layer of creamy mashed potatoes. This hearty meal is perfect for cozy fall dinners, offering warmth and comfort while using seasonal ingredients.

Ingredients Quantity
Ground lamb or beef 1 pound
Onion 1, chopped
Carrots 2, diced
Peas 1 cup
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Tomato paste 2 tablespoons
Worcestershire sauce 1 tablespoon
Beef broth 1 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Potatoes 2 pounds, peeled and cubed
Heavy cream 1/4 cup
Butter 2 tablespoons
Salt and black pepper To taste
Fresh thyme (optional) 1 teaspoon, chopped

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water until tender, then drain and mash with cream, butter, salt, and pepper.
  3. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat, and sauté onion, carrots, and garlic until softened.
  4. Add ground meat, cooking until browned, then mix in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, peas, and beef broth. Simmer for a few minutes.
  5. Spread the meat mixture in a baking dish, then layer the mashed potatoes on top, smoothing it out.
  6. Bake in the oven for about 25-30 minutes until the top is golden. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting Classic Shepherd’s Pie!
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Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Bacon

maple glazed brussels sprouts bacon

Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Bacon is a delightful side dish that combines the earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts with the savory crunch of bacon, all drizzled with a sweet maple glaze. This dish is perfect for your fall dinners, providing a balance of flavors that pairs beautifully with roasted meats or makes for a tasty vegetarian option if omitted the bacon.

Ingredients Quantity
Brussels sprouts 1 pound
Bacon 4 slices
Maple syrup 2 tablespoons
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Balsamic vinegar (optional) 1 tablespoon
Fresh thyme (optional) 1 teaspoon, chopped

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and slice them in half.
  3. In a mixing bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  4. Chop the bacon into small pieces and mix it into the Brussels sprouts.
  5. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for about 20-25 minutes until crispy and caramelized, stirring halfway through.
  6. Drizzle with maple syrup (and balsamic vinegar, if using), then return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.
  7. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh thyme if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy!
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Spaghetti Squash With Marinara and Italian Sausage

hearty spaghetti squash dish

Spaghetti Squash with Marinara and Italian Sausage is a comforting and hearty fall dish that offers a delicious twist on traditional pasta. This recipe features tender spaghetti squash as a low-carb alternative, topped with savory Italian sausage and a rich marinara sauce, making it a perfect option for a cozy dinner.

Ingredients Quantity
Spaghetti squash 1 medium
Italian sausage 1 pound
Marinara sauce 2 cups
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Onion 1 small, diced
Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional) For serving
Fresh basil (optional) For garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove seeds. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Place cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for about 40-45 minutes, or until tender.
  3. While the squash is roasting, in a skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until fragrant and translucent. Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning; let it simmer for a few minutes.
  5. Once the squash is done, use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. Mix in the sausage and marinara mixture.
  6. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan and fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your fall dinner!
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Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts

spinach and cheese stuffed chicken

Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts are a delightful and nourishing fall dish that combines succulent chicken with a creamy, flavorful filling. This recipe features fresh spinach, ricotta, and mozzarella cheese, all baked to perfection, making it a comforting and satisfying meal for chilly evenings.

Ingredients Quantity
Chicken breasts 4 large
Fresh spinach 2 cups
Ricotta cheese 1 cup
Mozzarella cheese (shredded) 1 cup
Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon
Toothpicks or kitchen twine For securing

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat.
  3. In a bowl, mix the sautéed spinach with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  4. Cut a pocket in each chicken breast and stuff with the spinach and cheese mixture; secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
  5. Place stuffed chicken in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.
  6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious and hearty fall dinner!

Rustic Vegetable and Lentil Casserole

nutritious fall vegetable casserole

Rustic Vegetable and Lentil Casserole is a hearty and nutritious fall dish that showcases the bounty of seasonal vegetables combined with protein-rich lentils. This comforting casserole is perfect for chilly evenings, offering a warm and filling meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Packed with flavor and fiber, it’s an ideal addition to your fall dinner menu.

Ingredients Quantity
Green or brown lentils 1 cup
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Carrots 2, chopped
Zucchini 1, diced
Bell pepper 1, chopped
Onion 1, diced
Garlic 3 cloves, minced
Diced tomatoes 1 can (14.5 oz)
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Thyme 1 teaspoon
Oregano 1 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Fresh parsley (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
  3. Add carrots, zucchini, and bell pepper, cooking until slightly softened.
  4. Stir in lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper; bring to a simmer.
  5. Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and cover with foil.
  6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the flavors meld together.
  7. Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy your hearty fall casserole!

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Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.