11 Busy Night Fall Dinner Recipes

quick autumn dinner ideas

Hearty Pumpkin Chili

comforting pumpkin bean chili

Hearty Pumpkin Chili is a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This vegetarian chili combines the rich flavors of pumpkin with the hearty textures of beans and vegetables, making it both nutritious and satisfying. It’s an excellent way to enjoy the fall harvest and a wonderful centerpiece for a family dinner or gathering.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion 1, chopped
Garlic 3 cloves, minced
Bell pepper 1, chopped
Carrot 1, diced
Canned pumpkin puree 1 can (15 oz)
Kidney beans 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
Black beans 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
Diced tomatoes 1 can (14.5 oz)
Vegetable broth 2 cups
Chili powder 2 tablespoons
Cumin 1 teaspoon
Paprika 1 teaspoon
Salt 1 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Fresh cilantro (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Steps:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, bell pepper, and carrot. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.
  2. Stir in the pumpkin puree, kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Mix well.
  3. Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
  4. Bring the chili to a simmer, then cover and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy!
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One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Chicken

creamy tuscan chicken recipe

One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Chicken is a delightful and easy-to-make dish, perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner with family. This dish features tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich and creamy sauce made from sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Italian herbs. The one-pot method not only simplifies the cooking process but also makes cleanup a breeze, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Chicken breasts 4, boneless and skinless
Salt 1 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Garlic 3 cloves, minced
Sun-dried tomatoes 1/2 cup, chopped
Chicken broth 1 cup
Heavy cream 1 cup
Fresh spinach 4 cups
Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon
Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup, grated

Cooking Steps:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in heavy cream and Italian seasoning, mixing well.
  4. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted, then return the chicken to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  5. Top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy your creamy Tuscan chicken with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad!
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Autumn Vegetable Stir-Fry

autumn vegetable stir fry recipe

Autumn Vegetable Stir-Fry is a vibrant and nutritious dish that celebrates the seasonal harvest. Packed with a variety of tender-crunchy vegetables, it’s a quick and healthy meal that can be served as a side or a main dish, especially when paired with rice or noodles. This stir-fry is not only colorful but also bursting with flavor, making it a perfect dish for fall dinners.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Carrots 2, sliced
Bell peppers 2, sliced (any color)
Broccoli florets 2 cups
Brussels sprouts 1 cup, halved
Red onion 1, sliced
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Soy sauce 3 tablespoons
Ginger 1 teaspoon, grated
Sesame seeds 2 tablespoons (optional)

Cooking Steps:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  2. Add sliced carrots and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
  3. Add bell peppers, broccoli florets, Brussels sprouts, and red onion, stir-frying for another 4-5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
  4. Mix in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
  5. Pour in soy sauce and toss all ingredients to combine, cooking for another minute.
  6. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy your healthy autumn stir-fry!
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Savory Beef and Mushroom Stew

hearty beef mushroom stew

Savory Beef and Mushroom Stew is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings. This stew combines tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and a variety of vegetables simmered in a rich broth, resulting in a satisfying and flavorful meal. Serve it with crusty bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes for a complete dinner experience.

Ingredients Quantity
Beef chuck, cut into cubes 2 pounds
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion, chopped 1 large
Garlic, minced 3 cloves
Mushrooms, sliced 8 ounces
Carrots, chopped 2 medium
Celery, chopped 2 stalks
Beef broth 4 cups
Red wine (optional) 1 cup
Worcestershire sauce 2 tablespoons
Thyme 1 teaspoon
Bay leaves 2
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) optional

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and brown the beef cubes on all sides. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until soft.
  3. Add mushrooms, carrots, and celery; cook for 5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
  4. Return the beef to the pot and stir in beef broth, red wine (if using), Worcestershire sauce, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
  5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until beef is tender.
  6. Adjust seasoning if necessary, remove bay leaves, and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy your savory beef and mushroom stew!
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Maple-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts

maple glazed roasted brussels sprouts

Maple-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts are a delightful side dish that combines the natural bitterness of Brussels sprouts with the sweetness of maple syrup. This dish is perfect for both weeknight dinners and holiday gatherings, offering a balance of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients Quantity
Brussels sprouts, halved 1.5 pounds
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Maple syrup 3 tablespoons
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Balsamic vinegar (optional) 1 tablespoon
Crumbled bacon or pecans (optional) ½ cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until well coated.
  3. Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
  4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are golden brown and tender.
  5. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar, if using, and toss in crumbled bacon or pecans before serving. Enjoy your delicious maple-glazed roasted Brussels sprouts!
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Quick Baked Ziti With Spinach

quick easy pasta bake

Quick Baked Ziti With Spinach is a comforting and hearty pasta dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe combines pasta, marinara sauce, and cheese with nutrient-packed spinach to create a flavor-packed meal that can be prepared in just under an hour. It’s a great option for feeding a family or a group of friends, and it’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

Ingredients Quantity
Ziti pasta 16 ounces
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Fresh spinach, chopped 4 cups
Marinara sauce 24 ounces
Ricotta cheese 15 ounces
Mozzarella cheese, shredded 2 cups
Parmesan cheese, grated ½ cup
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Italian seasoning (optional) 1 teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti, sautéed spinach, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  5. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Quick Baked Ziti with Spinach!
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Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

hearty chicken wild rice soup

Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a wholesome and comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days. Packed with tender chicken, hearty wild rice, and a medley of vegetables, this soup provides flavor and nutrition in every spoonful. It’s an easy one-pot meal that is sure to warm you up and satisfy your hunger, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients Quantity
Cooked chicken, shredded 2 cups
Wild rice 1 cup
Chicken broth 6 cups
Carrots, diced 2 medium
Celery, diced 2 stalks
Onion, diced 1 medium
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Thyme (dried) 1 teaspoon
Bay leaf 1
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) for garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onions, carrots, and celery until softened.
  2. Add minced garlic, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to the pot, stirring for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the wild rice and cook according to package instructions, typically around 45 minutes.
  4. Stir in the shredded chicken and cook until heated through.
  5. Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious Chicken and Wild Rice Soup!
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Fall Harvest Quinoa Salad

fall harvest quinoa salad recipe

Fall Harvest Quinoa Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that celebrates the flavors of the season. This salad combines protein-rich quinoa with a mix of roasted vegetables, cranberries, and nuts, creating a hearty meal perfect for lunch or as a side dish for dinner. It’s also an excellent option for meal prep and can be enjoyed warm or cold.

Ingredients Quantity
Quinoa 1 cup
Vegetable broth 2 cups
Butternut squash, cubed 2 cups
Brussels sprouts, halved 2 cups
Red onion, diced 1 medium
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Maple syrup 2 tablespoons
Dried cranberries ½ cup
Pecans or walnuts, chopped ½ cup
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) for garnish
Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and red onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
  2. Meanwhile, rinse the quinoa under cold water, then cook it in vegetable broth according to package instructions.
  3. Once the quinoa and vegetables are done, combine them in a large bowl with maple syrup, dried cranberries, and nuts. Toss to mix.
  4. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your Fall Harvest Quinoa Salad!
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Cobbler-Style Shepherd’s Pie

cobbler style shepherd s pie recipe

Cobbler-Style Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting and hearty dish that brings together rich flavors and textures. This classic shepherd’s pie gets a twist with a biscuit-like topping, adding a delightful crunch to the savory filling of ground meat, vegetables, and savory gravy. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this dish is sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients Quantity
Ground beef or lamb 1 pound
Onion, diced 1 medium
Carrots, diced 2 medium
Peas (frozen or fresh) 1 cup
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Beef broth 1 cup
Worcestershire sauce 2 tablespoons
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt and pepper to taste
Biscuit mix 2 cups
Milk 2/3 cup
Butter (melted) 1/4 cup
Fresh herbs (optional) for garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté diced onion and carrots until soft. Add garlic and ground meat, cooking until browned.
  2. Stir in peas, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Allow to simmer for about 5 minutes, then transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
  3. In a separate bowl, prepare the biscuit mix according to package instructions, adding milk and melted butter. Spoon the biscuit batter over the meat mixture, spreading it evenly.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your Cobbler-Style Shepherd’s Pie!
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Spicy Lentil and Sweet Potato Tacos

spicy lentil sweet potato tacos

Spicy Lentil and Sweet Potato Tacos are a delicious and nutritious vegetarian option packed with flavor. This dish combines hearty lentils and sweet potatoes with a blend of spices, creating a satisfying filling for soft or crunchy taco shells. Perfect for taco night or a quick weeknight meal, these tacos are sure to please both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike!

Ingredients Quantity
Lentils (red or green) 1 cup
Sweet potatoes, peeled and diced 2 medium
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion, diced 1 medium
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Cumin 1 teaspoon
Chili powder 1 teaspoon
Paprika 1/2 teaspoon
Vegetable broth 2 cups
Salt and pepper to taste
Tortillas (soft or crunchy) 8-10
Avocado, sliced for topping
Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
Lime wedges for serving

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion until translucent, then add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
  2. Add the diced sweet potatoes, lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until sweet potatoes and lentils are tender, about 20-25 minutes.
  3. Once cooked, mash a portion of the mixture for creaminess, then stir to combine. Warm the tortillas in a separate pan or microwave.
  4. Fill each tortilla with the lentil and sweet potato mixture. Top with sliced avocado and chopped cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side. Enjoy your Spicy Lentil and Sweet Potato Tacos!

Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Casserole

cheesy vegetable casserole recipe

Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Casserole is a comforting and delicious side dish that combines tender broccoli and cauliflower with a creamy cheese sauce. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or simply as a satisfying addition to any weeknight meal. It’s packed with nutrients and flavor, making it a hit for both kids and adults alike!

Ingredients Quantity
Broccoli florets 4 cups
Cauliflower florets 4 cups
Cheddar cheese, shredded 2 cups
Cream cheese 8 ounces
Milk 1 cup
Garlic powder 1 teaspoon
Onion powder 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Bread crumbs 1 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large pot, steam or boil broccoli and cauliflower florets until just tender; drain and set aside.
  3. In a saucepan, combine cream cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Heat over medium until melted and smooth, then stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese until incorporated.
  4. Combine the cooked broccoli and cauliflower with the cheese sauce and mix well. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
  5. In a bowl, mix bread crumbs with olive oil and the remaining cheese. Sprinkle over the casserole.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower 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.