11 Easy Protein Packed Fall Dinner Recipes

protein rich fall dinner recipes

Quinoa and Roasted Vegetable Salad

hearty quinoa vegetable salad

Quinoa and Roasted Vegetable Salad is a hearty and nutritious dish perfect for a fall dinner. This vibrant salad combines protein-rich quinoa with an array of seasonal vegetables, all roasted to enhance their flavors. It’s a great option for both a side dish or a light main course, providing a balanced meal packed with fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats.

Ingredients Quantity
Quinoa 1 cup
Vegetable broth 2 cups
Bell peppers (diced) 1 cup
Zucchini (sliced) 1 medium
Red onion (sliced) 1 medium
Carrots (diced) 1 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (chopped) ¼ cup
Lemon juice 2 tablespoons

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Rinse quinoa under cold water, then cook it in vegetable broth according to package instructions.
  3. Toss bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and carrots with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
  4. Roast vegetables in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
  5. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, chopped parsley, and lemon juice. Mix well to combine.
  6. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve warm or at room temperature.
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Creamy Pumpkin and Black Bean Chili

creamy pumpkin black bean chili

Creamy Pumpkin and Black Bean Chili is a cozy, warming dish ideal for chilly fall evenings. This hearty chili combines the earthy flavors of black beans and the sweetness of pumpkin, creating a rich and creamy texture. Packed with protein and fiber, this dish is not only satisfying but also nutritious, making it a perfect option for a hearty dinner.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion (diced) 1 medium
Garlic (minced) 3 cloves
Bell pepper (diced) 1 medium
Canned pumpkin puree 1 can (15 oz)
Canned black beans (drained) 1 can (15 oz)
Vegetable broth 2 cups
Ground cumin 1 tablespoon
Chili powder 1 tablespoon
Smoked paprika 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Coconut milk 1 cup
Fresh cilantro (chopped) for garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and garlic until softened.
  2. Add bell pepper, and cook for a few more minutes until it begins to soften.
  3. Stir in pumpkin puree, black beans, vegetable broth, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
  4. Allow chili to cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Stir in coconut milk and heat through for another 5 minutes.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy!
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Turkey and Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie

comforting turkey sweet potatoes

Turkey and Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting and hearty dish that brings together lean ground turkey and creamy sweet potatoes in a delightful and nutritious way. This fall-inspired twist on the classic shepherd’s pie is not only packed with protein but also bursts with flavors that embody the season. Perfect for family dinners, this dish will warm you up and fill you with good energy.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Ground turkey 1 pound
Onion (diced) 1 medium
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Carrots (diced) 2 medium
Celery (diced) 2 stalks
Frozen peas 1 cup
Tomato paste 2 tablespoons
Chicken broth 1 cup
Dried thyme 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Sweet potatoes (peeled and diced) 2 large
Milk (or non-dairy alternative) 1/4 cup
Butter (or non-dairy alternative) 2 tablespoons

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat; add ground turkey, onion, and garlic, cooking until turkey is browned.
  3. Stir in carrots, celery, peas, tomato paste, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper; simmer for about 10 minutes.
  4. In a pot, boil sweet potatoes until tender; drain and mash with milk and butter until smooth.
  5. In a baking dish, layer the turkey mixture and top it with the sweet potato mash.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden. Serve warm and enjoy!
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Apple Cider Glazed Chicken Thighs

apple cider glazed chicken

Apple Cider Glazed Chicken Thighs is a flavorful and satisfying dish that perfectly captures the essence of fall with its sweet and tangy glaze. The chicken thighs become incredibly moist and tender as they cook, absorbing all the delightful flavors of apple cider, herbs, and spices. This dish is ideal for cozy dinners and can be served with seasonal sides.

Ingredients Quantity
Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs 4 pieces
Apple cider 1 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Fresh thyme (chopped) 1 tablespoon
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 bowl, mix apple cider, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper to create the glaze.
  3. Place chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the apple cider glaze over them, ensuring they are well coated.
  4. Bake in the oven for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
  5. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy!
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Spinach and Feta Stuffed Acorn Squash

stuffed acorn squash recipe

Spinach and Feta Stuffed Acorn Squash is a nutritious and hearty vegetarian dish that makes for a perfect fall dinner. The sweetness of roasted acorn squash pairs beautifully with the savory filling of spinach, feta cheese, and herbs, making it a comforting yet impressive choice for any dinner table. This dish is not only packed with protein from the feta and spinach but also brings vibrant colors and flavors to your meal.

Ingredients Quantity
Acorn squash 2 medium
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Fresh spinach (chopped) 2 cups
Feta cheese (crumbled) 1 cup
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Onion (diced) 1 small
Cooked quinoa 1 cup
Fresh parsley (chopped) 2 tablespoons
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Cut the acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds, then brush the insides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Place the squash halves face down on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
  4. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and spinach, cooking until spinach wilts.
  5. In a bowl, mix sautéed spinach and onion with feta, cooked quinoa, and fresh parsley. Season with salt and black pepper.
  6. Once the squash is cooked, flip them over, fill each half with the spinach and feta mixture, and return to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes.
  7. Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve warm. Enjoy!
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Lentil and Kale Stew

lentil and kale stew

Lentil and Kale Stew is a hearty, protein-packed dish that’s perfect for cozy fall evenings. This nourishing stew combines the earthiness of lentils with the vibrant, nutritious qualities of kale, along with aromatic vegetables and spices, creating a flavorful meal that warms you from the inside out. It’s a filling option for both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike, providing a perfect balance of protein and fiber.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion (diced) 1 medium
Carrot (diced) 1 large
Celery (diced) 1 stalk
Garlic (minced) 3 cloves
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Dried lentils 1 cup
Fresh kale (chopped) 4 cups
Canned tomatoes (diced) 1 can (14 oz)
Thyme (dried) 1 teaspoon
Bay leaf 1 leaf
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat; sauté onion, carrot, and celery until softened.
  2. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
  4. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
  5. Stir in chopped kale and cook for another 5 minutes until wilted.
  6. Remove the bay leaf, adjust seasoning if necessary, and serve warm. Enjoy!
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Baked Salmon With Maple Dijon Glaze

maple dijon glazed salmon

Baked Salmon With Maple Dijon Glaze is a delightful dish that beautifully marries the rich flavors of salmon with the sweet and tangy notes of maple syrup and Dijon mustard. This healthy, protein-packed meal is not only quick to prepare but is also perfect for a cozy fall dinner, providing a luxurious taste without complicated cooking techniques.

Ingredients Quantity
Salmon fillets 4 pieces (6 oz each)
Maple syrup 1/4 cup
Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Fresh lemon juice 1 tablespoon
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (chopped) for garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
  3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and brush the glaze generously over each piece.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.
  5. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy!
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Spaghetti Squash With Turkey Bolognese

spaghetti squash turkey bolognese

Spaghetti Squash with Turkey Bolognese is a fantastic twist on a classic Italian dish, perfect for fall. This dish combines the nutty flavor of spaghetti squash with a hearty and protein-rich turkey bolognese sauce, making it both satisfying and nutritious. It’s a wonderful option for a cozy dinner that’s light yet filling, offering an excellent way to enjoy seasonal ingredients.

Ingredients Quantity
Spaghetti squash 1 medium
Ground turkey 1 pound
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion (chopped) 1 large
Garlic (minced) 3 cloves
Carrot (diced) 1 medium
Celery (diced) 1 stalk
Canned crushed tomatoes 1 can (28 oz)
Tomato paste 2 tablespoons
Dried oregano 1 teaspoon
Dried basil 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (chopped) for garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and brush the inside with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  2. Place the squash cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 40-45 minutes, or until tender.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery, cooking until the vegetables are soft.
  4. Add ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up as it cooks until browned. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes.
  5. Once the spaghetti squash is cooked, use a fork to scrape out the strands and serve topped with the turkey bolognese sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!
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Chickpea and Butternut Squash Curry

chickpea squash curry recipe

Chickpea and Butternut Squash Curry is a warm and comforting dish that perfectly captures the essence of fall. This hearty curry is not only rich in flavor but also packed with protein and nutrients from chickpeas and squash. With aromatic spices and a creamy texture, it’s an ideal option for a satisfying dinner that feels indulgent while remaining healthy.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion (chopped) 1 medium
Garlic (minced) 3 cloves
Fresh ginger (grated) 1 tablespoon
Ground cumin 1 teaspoon
Ground coriander 1 teaspoon
Turmeric 1 teaspoon
Cayenne pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Butternut squash (peeled and cubed) 4 cups
Canned chickpeas (drained and rinsed) 1 can (15 oz)
Coconut milk 1 can (14 oz)
Vegetable broth 1 cup
Fresh spinach 2 cups
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro (for garnish) for garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft.
  2. Stir in garlic and fresh ginger, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper; cook for another minute.
  4. Incorporate the butternut squash, chickpeas, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
  5. Stir in fresh spinach until wilted, season with salt, and serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy!
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Hearty Vegetable and Bean Casserole

hearty vegetable bean casserole

Hearty Vegetable and Bean Casserole is a nourishing and satisfying dish that showcases the bounty of fall produce. Packed with protein-rich beans and a variety of colorful vegetables, this casserole is not only comforting but is also a great way to incorporate healthy ingredients into your dinner. It’s perfect for a cozy family meal or as a make-ahead option for busy weeknights.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion (chopped) 1 medium
Garlic (minced) 3 cloves
Carrots (sliced) 2 medium
Zucchini (diced) 1 medium
Bell peppers (diced) 2 (any color)
Canned black beans (drained) 1 can (15 oz)
Canned kidney beans (drained) 1 can (15 oz)
Diced tomatoes (canned) 1 can (14.5 oz)
Vegetable broth 1 cup
Ground cumin 1 teaspoon
Dried oregano 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Fresh parsley (for garnish) for garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion and garlic until softened.
  3. Add sliced carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers to the skillet, cooking for about 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, oregano, and salt. Mix well and bring to a simmer.
  5. Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in the oven for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly.
  6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. Enjoy your hearty meal!

Stuffed Bell Peppers With Ground Turkey and Quinoa

stuffed bell peppers recipe

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Turkey and Quinoa are a wholesome and protein-packed fall dinner option. This dish combines lean ground turkey with nutrient-rich quinoa and an assortment of vegetables, all encased in colorful bell peppers. It’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a satisfying and nutritious meal that can be prepared in advance and easily reheated for busy weeknights.

Ingredients Quantity
Bell peppers (halved and seeded) 4 large
Ground turkey 1 pound
Quinoa (uncooked) 1 cup
Onion (chopped) 1 medium
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Canned diced tomatoes 1 can (14.5 oz)
Black beans (drained) 1 can (15 oz)
Ground cumin 1 teaspoon
Chili powder 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish) for garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, and sauté onion and garlic until softened.
  4. Add ground turkey to the skillet, cooking until browned, then stir in diced tomatoes, black beans, cooked quinoa, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Mix well.
  5. Stuff each halved bell pepper with the turkey-quinoa mixture and place them in a baking dish.
  6. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the peppers are tender.
  7. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your delicious stuffed bell peppers!

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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.