11 Fall Dinner Recipes for Two: Romantic & Simple

Pumpkin Risotto With Sage

creamy pumpkin risotto recipe

Pumpkin Risotto with Sage is a delightful and creamy dish that perfectly encapsulates the flavors of fall. This comforting recipe combines Arborio rice with pureed pumpkin and fresh sage, creating a rich and velvety texture that is both satisfying and aromatic. Ideal for a cozy dinner for two, this risotto is sure to warm hearts and palates alike.

Ingredients Quantity
Arborio rice 1 cup
Pumpkin puree 1/2 cup
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Onion 1 small, diced
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Fresh sage leaves 6-8 leaves, chopped
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Parmesan cheese 1/4 cup, grated
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Butter 1 tablespoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a saucepan, heat the vegetable broth and keep it warm on low heat.
  2. In another large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
  3. Add Arborio rice to the skillet and toast for a couple of minutes, stirring frequently.
  4. Gradually add warm vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, stirring continuously until absorbed.
  5. When rice is creamy and al dente, stir in the pumpkin puree and fresh sage, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
  6. Finish with butter and grated Parmesan cheese, seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve warm.
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Honey-Glazed Salmon With Brussels Sprouts

honey glazed salmon and brussels sprouts

Honey-Glazed Salmon with Brussels Sprouts is a delightful and healthy dish that showcases the natural sweetness of salmon paired with caramelized Brussels sprouts. This recipe is both quick and easy, making it perfect for an intimate dinner for two. The honey glaze adds a touch of sweetness that beautifully complements the savory flavors of the fish and vegetables, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.

Ingredients Quantity
Salmon fillets 2 (6-ounce)
Honey 2 tablespoons
Soy sauce 1 tablespoon
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Brussels sprouts 2 cups, halved
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Lemon wedges for serving

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a small bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, olive oil, salt, and black pepper to create the glaze.
  3. Place Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper; toss to coat.
  4. Nestle the salmon fillets among the Brussels sprouts and brush the glaze over the salmon.
  5. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes, until the salmon is cooked through and the Brussels sprouts are tender and caramelized.
  6. Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side.
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Butternut Squash and Spinach Pasta

comforting squash spinach pasta

Butternut Squash and Spinach Pasta is a comforting and hearty dish that perfectly captures the essence of fall. With its creamy texture and vibrant flavors, this pasta is both satisfying and nutritious, making it an ideal choice for a cozy dinner for two. The combination of roasted butternut squash, fresh spinach, and pasta creates a delightful medley that warms the soul.

Ingredients Quantity
Pasta (e.g., fettuccine) 8 ounces
Butternut squash 2 cups, diced
Fresh spinach 2 cups
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup, grated
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Nutmeg a pinch
Balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
  2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
  3. In a large pan, sauté garlic in olive oil until fragrant, add spinach, and cook until wilted.
  4. Mix the roasted squash and cooked pasta into the pan with spinach; add Parmesan, nutmeg, and balsamic vinegar, stirring to combine.
  5. Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
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Herb-Crusted Chicken With Root Vegetables

herb crusted chicken dinner

Herb-Crusted Chicken with Root Vegetables is a hearty and flavorful dish that celebrates the wholesome ingredients of fall. The succulent chicken is coated with a blend of fresh herbs, creating a savory crust that complements the sweetness of roasted root vegetables. Perfect for a cozy dinner for two, this dish offers a satisfying balance of textures and flavors that warm the heart.

Ingredients Quantity
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts 2 pieces
Mixed fresh herbs (e.g., rosemary, thyme, parsley) 1/2 cup, chopped
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Carrots 2, sliced
Parsnips 2, sliced
Potatoes 2, cubed
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). In a bowl, mix chopped herbs, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the herb mixture.
  2. Coat each chicken breast with the herb mixture and place them in a roasting pan.
  3. In the same bowl, add sliced carrots, parsnips, and potatoes with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine and add them around the chicken in the pan.
  4. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
  5. Drizzle the chicken with lemon juice before serving. Enjoy warm!
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Apple-Cider Glazed Pork Chops

apple cider pork chops

Apple-Cider Glazed Pork Chops are a delightful fall dish that combines the savory flavors of pork with the sweet tang of apple cider. This comforting recipe features juicy pork chops that are seared to perfection and then glazed with a luscious apple-cider reduction, making it a perfect meal for a cozy dinner for two.

Ingredients Quantity
Bone-in pork chops 2 pieces
Apple cider 1 cup
Brown sugar 2 tablespoons
Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Fresh thyme 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season pork chops with salt and pepper, then sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through.
  2. In a separate saucepan, combine apple cider, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until thickened, about 10 minutes.
  3. Pour the apple-cider glaze over the cooked pork chops in the skillet, allowing them to soak up the flavors for a couple of minutes.
  4. Serve warm, drizzled with additional glaze, and enjoy your delicious fall dinner!
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Creamy Mushroom Soup With Thyme

creamy mushroom soup recipe

Creamy Mushroom Soup with Thyme is a rich and comforting dish that embodies the warmth of fall. This velvety soup is packed with earthy mushroom flavors and fresh thyme, making it a perfect starter or a cozy main course for a lovely dinner for two. The creamy texture pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping.

Ingredients Quantity
Mushrooms (sliced) 8 ounces
Onion (chopped) 1 small
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Vegetable broth 2 cups
Heavy cream 1 cup
Fresh thyme 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft.
  2. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they are tender and browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 10 minutes.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream and fresh thyme. Season with salt and pepper, then blend with an immersion blender until smooth.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme if desired. Enjoy your creamy mushroom soup!
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Quinoa Salad With Roasted Fall Veggies

nutritious quinoa veggie salad

Quinoa Salad with Roasted Fall Veggies is a hearty and nutritious dish that celebrates the flavors of the season. This colorful salad combines protein-rich quinoa with an assortment of roasted autumn vegetables, such as sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts, all tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner for two or as a light lunch option.

Ingredients Quantity
Quinoa 1 cup
Sweet potato (diced) 1 medium
Brussels sprouts (halved) 1 cup
Red onion (sliced) 1 small
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Maple syrup 1 tablespoon
Apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (chopped) 2 tablespoons

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Toss diced sweet potato, halved Brussels sprouts, and sliced red onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and caramelized.
  3. Meanwhile, cook quinoa according to package instructions; fluff with a fork after cooking.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper for the dressing.
  5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, roasted veggies, and dressing. Toss gently to combine and stir in chopped parsley. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your vibrant quinoa salad!
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Spaghetti With Butternut Squash Sauce

butternut squash pasta dish

Spaghetti with Butternut Squash Sauce is a comforting and delicious pasta dish that highlights the sweet, creamy flavor of roasted butternut squash. This autumn-inspired meal is not only simple to prepare but also makes for a romantic dinner for two. The velvety squash sauce pairs perfectly with al dente spaghetti, creating a satisfying and healthy dish ideal for chilly evenings.

Ingredients Quantity
Spaghetti 8 oz (about 225 g)
Butternut squash (peeled and diced) 2 cups
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Vegetable broth 1 cup
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh sage (chopped) 1 tablespoon
Parmesan cheese (grated) for serving

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes until tender.
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
  3. In a skillet, sauté minced garlic in olive oil over medium heat until fragrant. Add the roasted butternut squash and vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Mash the squash slightly to create a creamy sauce.
  4. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Stir in chopped sage and season with salt and pepper.
  5. Combine the cooked spaghetti with the butternut squash sauce, tossing to coat. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy your delightful spaghetti!
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Stuffed Acorn Squash With Quinoa and Cranberries

nutritious stuffed acorn squash

Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa and Cranberries is a vibrant and nutritious autumn dish that beautifully showcases the flavors of the season. This recipe features roasted acorn squash halves filled with a hearty mixture of quinoa, dried cranberries, nuts, and spices, making it a perfect meal for two that is both satisfying and visually appealing.

Ingredients Quantity
Acorn squash 2 medium
Quinoa 1 cup (uncooked)
Vegetable broth 2 cups
Dried cranberries 1/2 cup
Chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans) 1/4 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion (chopped) 1 small
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (chopped) for garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Brush the insides with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and place them cut side down on a baking sheet. Roast for about 25-30 minutes until tender.
  2. In a saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil, then add the quinoa. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until quinoa is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté chopped onion and garlic until soft. Stir in cooked quinoa, dried cranberries, chopped nuts, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  4. Once the squash is roasted, turn them cut side up and fill each half with the quinoa mixture. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until heated through.
  5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delightful stuffed acorn squash!
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Beef Stew With Carrots and Potatoes

hearty beef stew recipe

Beef Stew with Carrots and Potatoes is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for chilly fall evenings. This classic recipe features tender beef chunks simmered with seasonal vegetables, creating a rich and flavorful one-pot meal that’s great for two people to enjoy together.

Ingredients Quantity
Beef stew meat (chuck or similar) 1 pound
Carrots 2 medium
Potatoes 2 medium
Onion (chopped) 1 small
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Beef broth 4 cups
Tomato paste 2 tablespoons
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Dried thyme 1 teaspoon
Bay leaf 1 leaf
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (chopped) for garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat, season with salt and pepper, and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened. Add the carrots and potatoes, cooking for another few minutes.
  3. Stir in the browning beef, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is tender.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove bay leaf before serving and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your warm and cozy beef stew!

Chocolate Fondue With Seasonal Fruits

chocolate fondue fruit sharing

Chocolate Fondue With Seasonal Fruits is a delightful and romantic dessert perfect for sharing on a cozy fall evening. This indulgent treat features creamy melted chocolate paired with an assortment of fresh, seasonal fruits, making it an interactive and flavorful way to end your fall dinner for two.

Ingredients Quantity
Semi-sweet chocolate chips 8 ounces
Heavy cream 1 cup
Seasonal fruits (strawberries, apples, pears, etc.) 2 cups (sliced)
Marshmallows 1 cup
Wooden skewers or forks for serving

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream over medium heat until it is just about to simmer.
  2. Remove from heat and add semi-sweet chocolate chips, stirring until melted and smooth.
  3. Transfer the melted chocolate to a fondue pot or a heat-safe bowl.
  4. Arrange the sliced seasonal fruits and marshmallows on a platter, along with skewers or forks for dipping.
  5. Dip the fruits and marshmallows into the warm chocolate fondue and enjoy!

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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.