11 Fall Dinner Recipes for Special Occasions

special occasion fall recipes

Butternut Squash Risotto

creamy butternut squash risotto

Butternut squash risotto is a creamy and comforting dish perfect for fall. This savory Italian classic combines Arborio rice with the sweet and nutty flavors of butternut squash, creating a rich and satisfying meal that’s ideal for cozy evenings. With its warm hues and inviting aroma, this risotto is sure to be a hit at your dinner table.

Ingredients Quantity
Arborio rice 1 cup
Butternut squash 2 cups, diced
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Onion 1, finely chopped
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup, grated
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Fresh sage or thyme Optional, for garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a saucepan, heat the vegetable broth and keep it warm over low heat.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
  3. Stir in the diced butternut squash and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender.
  4. Add Arborio rice to the skillet, stirring for 1-2 minutes until slightly toasted.
  5. Gradually add warmed broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently until absorbed before adding more.
  6. Continue this process until the rice is creamy and al dente, about 18-20 minutes.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh sage or thyme, if desired.
  8. Serve warm, enjoying the rich flavors of fall!
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Apple Cider Glazed Pork Tenderloin

apple cider glazed pork

Apple cider glazed pork tenderloin is a succulent and flavorful dish that embodies the essence of fall. The tenderloin is marinated in a sweet and tangy apple cider glaze, resulting in a juicy and aromatic centerpiece perfect for any autumn dinner gathering. Paired with seasonal sides, this dish will impress family and friends alike.

Ingredients Quantity
Pork tenderloin 1.5 pounds
Apple cider 1 cup
Maple syrup 1/4 cup
Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Fresh rosemary 2 sprigs
Garlic 3 cloves, minced
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a bowl, combine apple cider, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the pork tenderloin and marinate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight in the refrigerator.
  2. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  3. Remove the pork from the marinade and sear in a hot skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
  4. Transfer the pork to a baking dish, pour the marinade over it, and top with fresh rosemary.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
  6. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving, drizzled with any remaining glaze. Enjoy the rich flavors of a fall feast!
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Pumpkin Stuffed Shells

creamy pumpkin stuffed shells

Pumpkin stuffed shells are a delightful and comforting dish that celebrates the flavors of fall. This hearty vegetarian option features large pasta shells filled with a creamy pumpkin and ricotta mixture, topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner and is sure to please both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.

Ingredients Quantity
Jumbo pasta shells 12-16 shells
Pumpkin puree 1 cup
Ricotta cheese 1 cup
Grated Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup
Mozzarella cheese 1 cup, shredded
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Marinara sauce 2 cups
Fresh parsley (optional) Chopped, for garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and let cool.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, ricotta, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
  4. Stuff each shell with the pumpkin mixture and place them in a baking dish.
  5. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top.
  6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy this warm and satisfying fall dish!
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Fall Harvest Salad

colorful and nutritious salad

Fall Harvest Salad is a colorful and nutritious dish that highlights the fresh produce of the season. This vibrant salad combines roasted autumn vegetables, crunchy nuts, and sweet fruits, all tossed together with a zesty dressing. It’s satisfying enough to serve as a main dish or as a side at your fall gatherings.

Ingredients Quantity
Mixed greens 4 cups
Sweet potatoes 2 medium, diced
Brussels sprouts 1 cup, halved
Apples 1 large, diced
Dried cranberries 1/2 cup
Feta cheese 1/2 cup, crumbled
Pecans or walnuts 1/2 cup, chopped
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons
Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread diced sweet potatoes and halved Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
  2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, roasted vegetables, diced apples, dried cranberries, crumbled feta, and chopped nuts.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper for the dressing. Pour over the salad and toss gently.
  4. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for a short time before serving. Enjoy this seasonal and hearty salad!
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Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts

maple brussels sprouts recipe

Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts is a delightful side dish that showcases the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts combined with the rich flavor of maple syrup. This simple yet flavorful recipe elevates the traditional roasted Brussels sprouts by adding a touch of sweetness and a hint of crunch, making it a perfect accompaniment to any fall dinner.

Ingredients Quantity
Brussels sprouts 1 pound
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Maple syrup 2 tablespoons
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon
Chopped pecans or walnuts 1/4 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, and place them on a baking sheet.
  2. Drizzle the olive oil, maple syrup, and balsamic vinegar over the Brussels sprouts, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
  3. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the Brussels sprouts are tender and caramelized.
  4. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts before serving. Enjoy the sweet and savory flavors in this seasonal dish!
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Beef Bourguignon

classic french beef stew

Beef Bourguignon is a classic French dish that embodies the heartiness and warmth associated with fall dinners. This rich and flavorful beef stew is braised in red wine with mushrooms, onions, and aromatic herbs, creating a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for chilly evenings.

Ingredients Quantity
Beef chuck, cut into cubes 2 pounds
Red wine (preferably Burgundy) 750 ml
Beef broth 2 cups
Carrots, sliced 2
Pearl onions, peeled 1 cup
Mushrooms, quartered 8 ounces
Garlic, minced 3 cloves
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Tomato paste 2 tablespoons
Fresh thyme 2 sprigs
Bay leaf 1
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Chopped parsley (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes in batches and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, add pearl onions, carrots, and mushrooms, sautéing until softened.
  3. Stir in the garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another minute.
  4. Return the beef to the pot, then pour in the red wine and beef broth. Add thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
  5. Bring to a simmer, cover, and reduce heat to low. Let braise for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender.
  6. Remove herb sprigs and bay leaf before serving, and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy this comforting dish with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes!
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Roasted Chicken With Herbs

herb seasoned roasted chicken

Roasted Chicken with Herbs is a simple yet elegant dish that captures the essence of fall with its aromatic flavors and crispy skin. This dish showcases the natural goodness of a whole chicken, seasoned with fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon, resulting in a juicy and flavorful meal perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients Quantity
Whole chicken 4-5 pounds
Olive oil 4 tablespoons
Fresh rosemary 2 tablespoons
Fresh thyme 2 tablespoons
Fresh sage 2 tablespoons
Garlic, minced 4 cloves
Lemon, halved 1
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Vegetables for roasting (e.g., carrots, potatoes, onions) 4 cups

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, rosemary, thyme, sage, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to make a herb paste.
  3. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and rub the herb mixture all over, including under the skin and inside the cavity. Stuff the cavity with lemon halves and additional herbs if desired.
  4. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and surround it with your choice of chopped vegetables.
  5. Roast in the preheated oven for approximately 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), basting occasionally.
  6. Remove the chicken from the oven, let it rest for 10-15 minutes, then carve and serve with the roasted vegetables. Enjoy this savory dish with a side salad or crusty bread!
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Sweet Potato Gnocchi

delightful fall sweet potato gnocchi

Sweet Potato Gnocchi is a delightful fall dish that encapsulates the flavors of the season with its tender dumplings made from roasted sweet potatoes. This hearty pasta is perfect for a cozy dinner, served with a savory sauce or as a simple side dish, and can be easily made from scratch for a comforting meal that friends and family will love.

Ingredients Quantity
Sweet potatoes 2 medium
All-purpose flour 1 to 1.5 cups
Egg 1 large
Salt 1 teaspoon
Nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Parmesan cheese (grated) 1/2 cup
Fresh sage (optional) 2 tablespoons (for garnish)

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and roast the sweet potatoes until tender (about 45 minutes).
  2. Allow the sweet potatoes to cool, peel, and mash them in a large bowl.
  3. Mix in the egg, salt, and nutmeg, followed by gradually adding flour until a soft dough forms.
  4. Lightly flour a clean surface and roll the dough into logs about 1 inch thick; cut into bite-sized pieces.
  5. Boil salted water in a pot, and cook the gnocchi until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes.
  6. Drain and toss with olive oil and Parmesan cheese, serving warm. Garnish with fresh sage if desired. Enjoy your comforting sweet potato gnocchi!
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Spiced Pear and Gorgonzola Tart

savory pear cheese tart

Spiced Pear and Gorgonzola Tart is a tantalizing dish that wonderfully blends the sweetness of ripe pears with the bold, creamy flavor of Gorgonzola cheese. This elegant tart is perfect for a fall dinner, serving as a stunning appetizer or a delightful dessert. The buttery pastry crust holds the rich filling, making it a crowd-pleaser that highlights the flavors of the season.

Ingredients Quantity
Tart crust 1 (store-bought or homemade)
Pears (ripe, sliced) 2 medium
Gorgonzola cheese 4 ounces
Heavy cream 1/2 cup
Eggs 2 large
Brown sugar 2 tablespoons
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Fresh thyme (optional) 1 teaspoon (for garnish)

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Roll out the tart crust and fit it into a tart pan, trimming any excess.
  3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon, then pour this mixture into the tart shell.
  4. Arrange the sliced pears evenly over the cream mixture and crumble Gorgonzola cheese on top.
  5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the filling is set and golden brown.
  6. Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and garnish with fresh thyme if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your exquisite spiced pear and Gorgonzola tart!
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Harvest Vegetable Stew

hearty fall vegetable stew

Harvest Vegetable Stew is a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for celebrating the bounty of the fall season. Packed with a variety of seasonal vegetables and wholesome flavors, this stew is not only nutritious but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal addition to your fall dinner table. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal that warms the soul.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion (chopped) 1 medium
Carrots (sliced) 2 medium
Celery (chopped) 2 stalks
Potatoes (diced) 2 medium
Zucchini (diced) 1 medium
Bell pepper (chopped) 1 medium
Garlic (minced) 3 cloves
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Canned diced tomatoes 1 can (14.5 ounces)
Fresh thyme 1 tablespoon
Bay leaf 1
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
  2. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the potatoes, zucchini, bell pepper, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, and bay leaf.
  4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
  5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, remove the bay leaf, and serve hot. Enjoy your cozy harvest vegetable stew!

Pecan Pie Cheesecake

pecan pie cheesecake delight

Pecan Pie Cheesecake is a delightful fusion dessert that combines the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the sweet, nutty flavors of a classic pecan pie. This indulgent treat is perfect for fall gatherings and holiday celebrations, offering a unique twist on two beloved desserts. The buttery crust, luscious filling, and crunchy pecan topping make it a showstopper that will impress your guests.

Ingredients Quantity
Graham cracker crumbs 1 ½ cups
Granulated sugar ½ cup
Unsalted butter (melted) 1/3 cup
Cream cheese (softened) 24 ounces
Brown sugar 1 cup
Pure vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Eggs 3 large
Heavy cream 1 cup
Corn syrup 1 cup
Pecans (chopped) 1 ½ cups

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and prepare a 9-inch springform pan by greasing the bottom and sides.
  2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until combined, then press into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth, then add brown sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs, mixing until well incorporated.
  4. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust and bake for 50-60 minutes until the edges are set; the center should slightly jiggle.
  5. While the cheesecake is cooling, combine heavy cream, corn syrup, and chopped pecans in a pot, bringing to a simmer until thickened.
  6. Once the cheesecake is cool, pour the pecan topping over the cheesecake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving. Enjoy your delicious pecan pie cheesecake!

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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.