11 Easy Fall Dinner Recipes for Autumn Weeknights

autumn weeknight dinner recipes

Hearty Pumpkin Soup

hearty pumpkin soup recipe

Hearty pumpkin soup is a warm and comforting dish perfect for the fall season. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this soup serves as a delightful starter or a filling main course. Combining the natural sweetness of pumpkin with savory herbs, this recipe will have you wrapping your hands around a warm bowl in no time.

Ingredients Quantity
Pumpkin 1 medium (about 3-4 cups diced)
Onion 1 large, chopped
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Coconut milk 1 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Ground cumin 1 teaspoon
Ground ginger 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Pumpkin seeds (optional, for garnish) 2 tablespoons
  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
  2. Add the diced pumpkin and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Stir in the ground cumin and ground ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.
  5. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender to puree until smooth.
  6. Return the soup to the pot, stir in the coconut milk, and season with salt and black pepper.
  7. Heat through for a few minutes and serve warm, garnished with pumpkin seeds if desired. Enjoy your hearty pumpkin soup!
Sale
Fullstar The Original Pro Chopper - Vegetable Chopper and Spiralizer, Food Chopper with Container,...
  • The Original Pro Chopper - Our superstar veggie slicer has been creating waves on TikTok! Simple to use,...
  • Easy Meal Prep with Rust-Resistant Blades - Our vegetable chopper is perfect for anyone who wants to eat...
  • 5-Star Design - The soft-grip TPU handle ensures controlled chopping, while the non-skid rubber base...

Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

creamy cheesy broccoli casserole

Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole is a delicious and creamy dish that combines tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and gooey cheese into one comforting bake. It’s perfect as a side dish for any fall meal, or as a hearty vegetarian main course that satisfies with its creamy texture and cheesy flavors.

Ingredients Quantity
Broccoli florets 4 cups
Cooked rice 2 cups
Cheddar cheese, shredded 2 cups
Cream of mushroom soup 1 can (10.5 ounces)
Milk 1/2 cup
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Garlic powder 1 teaspoon
Onion powder 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Bread crumbs (optional) 1/2 cup
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli florets, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until well mixed.
  4. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. If desired, add bread crumbs for extra crunch.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  6. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole!
Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy...
  • Makes Everything Simple : Just forget your bagged cheese! Only turn the handle for several times and get...
  • Premium Material : All parts of the rotary cheese grater are made of food grade ABS material, no BPA. The...
  • Three Option Grater : The parmesan cheese grater finishes food preparation with slicing, shredding and...

Comforting Beef Stew

hearty beef stew recipe

Comforting Beef Stew is a classic, hearty dish that warms you from the inside out during those chilly fall evenings. This rich and savory stew features tender pieces of beef simmered with vegetables in a flavorful broth, making it the perfect meal to gather around with family and friends.

Ingredients Quantity
Beef chuck, cut into cubes 2 pounds
Carrots, chopped 3 medium
Potatoes, diced 4 medium
Onion, chopped 1 large
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Beef broth 4 cups
Tomato paste 2 tablespoons
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Bay leaves 2
Thyme 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef and brown it on all sides.
  2. Stir in the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
  3. Add carrots, potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
  5. Remove bay leaves, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve warm. Enjoy your comforting beef stew!
Chef Preserve Compact Vacuum Sealer for Food (Vacuum Sealer Machine + 30 Reusable Vacuum Bags)...
  • 💰 REDUCE WASTE AND SAVE MONEY: Chef Preserve keeps FOOD FRESH 5 TIMES LONGER than non-vacuum storage...
  • ✅ POWERFUL, QUICK & EASY TO USE: Simply press the button to start. The device vacuum seals a bag in 5...
  • ♻️ REUSABLE & RESEALABLE BAGS: Chef Preserve comes with dishwasher, freezer, refrigerator, and...

One-Pot Chicken and Mushroom Pasta

one pot chicken mushroom pasta

One-Pot Chicken and Mushroom Pasta is a delightful and convenient dish perfect for busy fall evenings. This dish combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and pasta all cooked together in a single pot, creating a rich and creamy sauce that brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table.

Ingredients Quantity
Chicken breasts, diced 2 pounds
Pasta (penne or fusilli) 12 ounces
Mushrooms, sliced 8 ounces
Onion, chopped 1 large
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Chicken broth 4 cups
Heavy cream 1 cup
Parmesan cheese, grated 1 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Oregano 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and add diced chicken. Cook until browned and no longer pink.
  2. Stir in chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
  3. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they soften.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth, add the pasta, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat, cover, and let simmer until pasta is al dente and the liquid is mostly absorbed, stirring occasionally.
  6. Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined and creamy.
  7. Adjust seasoning if needed, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious one-pot meal!
Sale
Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR), Versatile Cookware for...
  • Generous Capacity: 7-quart slow cooker that comfortably serves 9+ people or fits a 7-pound roast
  • Cooking Flexibility: High or low slow cooking settings, with convenient warm function for ideal serving...
  • Convenient: Set it and forget it feature enables you to cook while at work or performing daily tasks

Stuffed Bell Peppers

savory stuffed bell peppers

Stuffed Bell Peppers are a colorful and nutritious dish that makes for a perfect fall evening meal. These vibrant peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, vegetables, and spices, then baked until tender, making it a wholesome and comforting option for family dinners.

Ingredients Quantity
Bell peppers (any color) 4 large
Ground beef or turkey 1 pound
Cooked rice 1 cup
Onion, chopped 1 medium
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Diced tomatoes (canned) 1 can (14 oz)
Shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella) 1 cup
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Set aside.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté chopped onion and garlic until translucent.
  4. Add ground meat and cook until browned. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
  5. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat and rice mixture, then place them in a baking dish upright.
  6. Top with shredded cheese and cover the dish with aluminum foil.
  7. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and peppers are tender.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious stuffed bell peppers!
Sale
Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers BPA Free Airtight Lids Ideal for Lunch Meal Prep &...
  • 100% Leak-proof: Guaranteed no-spill seal and secure latches
  • Crystal-clear Tritan Built: Stain-resistant and odor-resistant material for a clear view of contents
  • Lightweight & Sturdy: Easy to carry, yet durable for everyday use

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

vegetarian sweet potato tacos

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos are a delightful vegetarian option that captures the essence of fall with their warm spices and hearty ingredients. These tacos combine the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with savory black beans, topped with fresh avocado and a zesty lime sauce, creating a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients Quantity
Sweet potatoes, diced 2 medium
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Black beans (canned), rinsed 1 can (15 oz)
Taco seasoning 1 tablespoon
Corn tortillas 8 small
Avocado, sliced 1 medium
Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
Lime 1, juiced
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Toss diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and taco seasoning. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
  3. In a small bowl, mix black beans with lime juice, salt, and pepper; set aside.
  4. Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave.
  5. Assemble the tacos by layering roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, and avocado slices in each tortilla.
  6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately. Enjoy your flavorful sweet potato and black bean tacos!
Etekcity Food Kitchen Scale, Digital Grams and Ounces for Weight Loss, Baking, Cooking, Keto and...
  • 𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗪𝗲𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴: Supports 5 units...
  • 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘀: Accurately weighs up to 11 lb/5 kg with 1 g...
  • 𝗦𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲 & 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁: The small and sleek scale is a perfect fit for...

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

creamy tomato basil soup

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that highlights the rich flavors of tomatoes paired with fresh basil and cream. Perfect for chilly fall evenings, this soup is easy to make and can be enjoyed with crusty bread or grilled cheese for a complete meal.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion, chopped 1 medium
Garlic cloves, minced 2
Canned crushed tomatoes 2 cans (28 oz)
Vegetable broth 3 cups
Fresh basil, chopped 1 cup
Heavy cream 1 cup
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese, grated for garnish
  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  2. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth; bring to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes.
  3. Add the fresh basil, salt, and pepper, cooking for another 5 minutes.
  4. Remove the pot from heat and blend the soup using an immersion blender until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream and return to heat for a few more minutes.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and additional basil leaves if desired. Enjoy your creamy tomato basil soup!
Sale
Alpha Grillers Meat Thermometer Digital - Instant Read Food Thermometer for Cooking and Grilling...
  • Instant Read Food Thermometer | Our instant read thermometer features a temperature probe and advanced,...
  • Multi-Use | From bbq thermometer to baking thermometer, our digital food thermometer for cooking is...
  • Easy-Read Digital Thermometer For Cooking | Large instant thermometer dial with bright blue backlight...

Rustic Vegetable Quinoa Bake

hearty vegetable quinoa casserole

Rustic Vegetable Quinoa Bake is a hearty and nutritious dish, perfect for fall dinner gatherings. This baked casserole incorporates wholesome quinoa with an array of colorful vegetables, making it a filling main course or a delightful side dish. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adjusted based on seasonal produce, providing nourishment and comfort on chilly evenings.

Ingredients Quantity
Quinoa 1 cup
Vegetable broth 2 cups
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Zucchini, diced 1 medium
Bell peppers, diced 2 (any color)
Carrot, diced 1 medium
Onion, chopped 1 small
Garlic cloves, minced 2
Spinach, chopped 2 cups
Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Grated cheese (mozzarella or parmesan) 1 cup
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a medium pot, combine quinoa and vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover until quinoa is fluffy, about 15 minutes.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until fragrant.
  4. Stir in zucchini, bell peppers, and carrot; cook until slightly tender, about 5-7 minutes. Then add spinach, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  5. In a large bowl, mix cooked quinoa and sautéed vegetables together. Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with grated cheese.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and golden. Serve warm and enjoy your Rustic Vegetable Quinoa Bake!
Sale
Home Hero 54-Piece Stainless Steel Kitchen Utensils Set - Heat-Resistant Nonstick Silicone &...
  • Versatile 54-Piece Collection: Elevate your kitchen with the Home Hero 54-Piece Kitchen Utensil Set, a...
  • Durable and Long-Lasting: Crafted from premium stainless steel, these kitchen utensils are designed to...
  • Perfect Holiday Gift: Delight your loved ones with this kitchen utensils gift set this festive season....

Savory Sausage and Kale Skillet

savory sausage and kale skillet

Savory Sausage and Kale Skillet is a comforting and flavorful one-pan dish that embodies the essence of fall. This hearty meal combines savory sausage with nutritious kale and combines vibrant flavors with a hint of garlic and spices. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, this skillet dish not only warms you up but also provides a well-rounded meal in one pot.

Ingredients Quantity
Italian sausage 1 pound
Kale, chopped 4 cups
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion, chopped 1 medium
Garlic cloves, minced 3
Vegetable broth 1 cup
Red pepper flakes 1/2 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese (optional) 1/4 cup
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
  3. Stir in the kale, vegetable broth, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper, cooking until the kale is wilted and tender.
  4. Remove from heat, sprinkle with optional Parmesan cheese if desired, serve warm, and enjoy your savory sausage and kale skillet!
Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Straw, BPA-Free Sports Water Bottle, Great...
  • 24-ounce insulated stainless-steel water bottle with a FreeSip spout and push-button lid with lock
  • Patented FreeSip spout designed for either sipping upright through the built-in straw or tilting back to...
  • Protective push-to-open lid keeps spout clean; convenient carry loop doubles as a lock

Applesauce Glazed Pork Chops

applesauce glazed pork chops
Ingredients Quantity
Bone-in pork chops 4 (about 1 inch thick)
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Applesauce 1 cup
Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons
Cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon
Apple cider vinegar 1 tablespoon
Fresh thyme (optional) 2-3 sprigs
  1. Season the pork chops with salt and black pepper on both sides.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through.
  3. In a bowl, mix together the applesauce, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and apple cider vinegar.
  4. Once the pork chops are cooked, pour the applesauce mixture over them and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the glaze to coat the chops.
  5. Optionally, garnish with fresh thyme before serving. Enjoy your delicious applesauce glazed pork chops!

Baked Ziti With Spinach and Ricotta

cheesy spinach ziti casserole

Baked Ziti with Spinach and Ricotta is a comforting, hearty Italian-American casserole that combines al dente pasta, rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and fresh spinach, all topped with melty mozzarella cheese. It’s perfect for a cozy fall dinner, and it can easily feed a crowd or provide delicious leftovers.

Ingredients Quantity
Ziti pasta 12 ounces
Marinara sauce 4 cups
Ricotta cheese 15 ounces
Fresh spinach 4 cups (packed)
Mozzarella cheese (shredded) 2 cups
Parmesan cheese (grated) 1/2 cup
Egg 1 large
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Dried Italian herbs 1 teaspoon
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, then add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the fresh spinach, cooking until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  5. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, cooked spinach, egg, salt, black pepper, and dried Italian herbs.
  6. In a large baking dish, layer half of the cooked ziti, half of the marinara sauce, and half of the ricotta mixture. Repeat layers.
  7. Top with shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
  8. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
  9. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your warm, cheesy Baked Ziti with Spinach and Ricotta!

Amazon disclaimer.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Follow:
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.