11 Fall Dinner Recipes Under 500 Calories

Roasted Butternut Squash and Quinoa Salad

roasted squash quinoa salad

Roasted Butternut Squash and Quinoa Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that’s perfect for fall. This flavorful salad combines roasted butternut squash with protein-packed quinoa, kale, and a zesty dressing, making it a satisfying and healthy option under 500 calories. It’s a wonderful side dish or a light main course that captures the essence of the season.

Ingredients Quantity
Butternut squash 1 medium, peeled and diced
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon
Quinoa 1 cup, rinsed
Vegetable broth 2 cups
Kale 2 cups, chopped
Red onion ½ small, thinly sliced
Feta cheese ½ cup, crumbled
Balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons
Maple syrup 1 tablespoon
Fresh parsley or cilantro ¼ cup, chopped (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread it on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized.
  2. While the squash is roasting, bring the vegetable broth to a boil and add the quinoa. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the roasted squash, quinoa, chopped kale, and red onion. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar and maple syrup, then drizzle over the salad.
  4. Gently toss everything together, and top with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.
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Apple Cider Glazed Chicken

apple cider glazed chicken

Apple Cider Glazed Chicken is a delightful and warming dish that perfectly complements the flavors of fall. With its sweet and tangy apple cider glaze, succulent chicken breasts, and a hint of fresh sage, this recipe is not only under 500 calories but is also a simple yet impressive main course for dinner.

Ingredients Quantity
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts 4 (about 1.5 pounds)
Apple cider 1 cup
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Fresh sage 2 tablespoons, chopped
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon
Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon
Onion powder ½ teaspoon
Fresh thyme (optional) 1 teaspoon, chopped

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine apple cider, olive oil, sage, garlic, salt, pepper, Dijon mustard, and onion powder. Bring to a simmer and reduce by half for about 10-15 minutes until slightly thickened.
  2. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and place them in a baking dish.
  3. Pour the apple cider glaze over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  5. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle with additional glaze if desired and garnish with fresh thyme. Enjoy your flavorful and healthy meal!
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Spicy Lentil and Sweet Potato Stew

nutritious spicy lentil stew

Spicy Lentil and Sweet Potato Stew is a hearty and nutritious dish that brings warmth and comfort on chilly fall evenings. Packed with protein-rich lentils, vibrant sweet potatoes, and an array of spices, this stew is not only filling but also under 500 calories per serving, making it a perfect option for a healthy dinner.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Onion 1 medium, diced
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Carrot 1 medium, diced
Sweet potato 2 medium, peeled and diced
Red lentils 1 cup
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Canned diced tomatoes 1 can (14.5 ounces)
Ground cumin 1 teaspoon
Ground coriander 1 teaspoon
Paprika 1 teaspoon
Cayenne pepper (optional) ¼ teaspoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon
Fresh spinach (optional) 2 cups, chopped

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent.
  2. Stir in the carrot and sweet potato, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
  3. Add the red lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and spices (cumin, coriander, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper). Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
  4. Cover and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, until the lentils and sweet potatoes are tender.
  5. Stir in fresh spinach if desired and cook for another 2-3 minutes until wilted. Serve hot, garnished with additional spices if you like. Enjoy your delicious and healthy stew!
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Pumpkin Chickpea Curry

comforting autumn pumpkin curry

Pumpkin Chickpea Curry is a comforting and flavorful dish that perfectly captures the essence of fall. Combining creamy pumpkin and protein-packed chickpeas with aromatic spices, this curry is not only satisfying but also comes in under 500 calories per serving. It’s an easy dish that can be served with rice or bread, making it a wholesome addition to your autumn dinner table.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Onion 1 medium, diced
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Ginger 1 tablespoon, minced
Canned pumpkin 1 can (15 ounces)
Canned chickpeas 1 can (15 ounces), drained
Coconut milk 1 can (13.5 ounces)
Curry powder 1 tablespoon
Ground cumin 1 teaspoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon
Spinach (optional) 2 cups, chopped
Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional) To taste

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion, garlic, and ginger until softened.
  2. Stir in the curry powder and ground cumin, cooking for an additional minute to release the flavors.
  3. Add the canned pumpkin, chickpeas, coconut milk, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
  4. Cover and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the curry to thicken.
  5. Stir in fresh spinach if desired, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until wilted. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if you like. Enjoy your delicious pumpkin chickpea curry!
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Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Cauliflower

maple glazed vegetable side dish

Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Cauliflower is a delightful and nutritious fall side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables, enhanced by a touch of maple syrup. Roasted to perfection, these Brussels sprouts and cauliflower florets offer a satisfying crunch and flavor that complements any autumn dinner, all while keeping each serving under 500 calories.

Ingredients Quantity
Brussels sprouts 1 pound, halved
Cauliflower 1 head, cut into florets
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Maple syrup 2 tablespoons
Balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon
Garlic powder 1 teaspoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon
Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional) To taste

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the Brussels sprouts and cauliflower florets. Drizzle with olive oil, maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
  3. Spread the vegetable mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
  4. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized, stirring halfway through.
  5. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious maple-glazed Brussels sprouts and cauliflower!
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Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Acorn Squash

turkey spinach acorn squash

Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Acorn Squash is a hearty and nutritious fall entrée that highlights the sweet and nutty flavor of acorn squash. This dish features a savory filling made from lean ground turkey, fresh spinach, and aromatic spices, all packed into roasted acorn halves. It’s a satisfying and wholesome option for a fall dinner, with each serving maintained under 500 calories.

Ingredients Quantity
Acorn squash 2 medium, halved
Ground turkey 1 pound
Fresh spinach 2 cups, chopped
Onion 1 medium, diced
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon
Parmesan cheese ¼ cup, grated (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds.
  2. Brush the inside of the squash halves with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place them cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
  3. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the diced onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  4. Add ground turkey to the skillet, cooking until browned. Stir in chopped spinach and Italian seasoning; cook until the spinach wilts. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Remove the roasted squash from the oven, flip them cut-side up, and fill each half with the turkey and spinach mixture. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
  6. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Serve warm and enjoy your Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Acorn Squash!
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Harvest Vegetable Soup

nourishing seasonal vegetable soup

Harvest Vegetable Soup is a comforting and nourishing dish, perfect for cool fall evenings. This vibrant soup is packed with a variety of seasonal vegetables, making it not only flavorful but also a healthy option that keeps the calorie count under control. Each bowl is rich in nutrients, fiber, and warmth, perfect for cozy gatherings or a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients Quantity
Carrots 2 medium, diced
Celery 2 stalks, diced
Onion 1 medium, diced
Garlic 3 cloves, minced
Bell pepper 1 medium, diced
Zucchini 1 medium, diced
Green beans 1 cup, trimmed and chopped
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Diced tomatoes 1 can (14.5 oz)
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon
Fresh parsley 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the diced onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
  2. Add minced garlic and chopped bell pepper, cooking for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Stir in zucchini, green beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
  4. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, until all vegetables are tender.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy your delicious Harvest Vegetable Soup!
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Balsamic Glazed Chicken With Caramelized Pears

balsamic chicken with pears

Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Caramelized Pears is a delightful, flavorful dish that combines savory and sweet elements, making it perfect for fall dining. The tender chicken breast is coated in a tangy balsamic reduction, while the caramelized pears add a touch of sweetness, creating a harmonious balance. This dish is not only satisfying but also keeps the calorie count under 500, making it an ideal choice for a healthy autumn meal.

Ingredients Quantity
Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless) 4 (about 6 oz each)
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Balsamic vinegar 1/4 cup
Honey 1 tablespoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Pears (firm, ripe, sliced) 2 medium
Fresh thyme (optional) 1 teaspoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and add to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add balsamic vinegar and honey, stirring to combine and simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  3. Add sliced pears to the skillet, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until they are tender and caramelized.
  4. Return chicken to the skillet, coating it in the balsamic glaze, and heat through for an additional minute.
  5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh thyme if desired. Enjoy your delicious Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Caramelized Pears!
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Zucchini Noodles With Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes

zucchini pesto tomato noodles

Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes is a invigorating and light dish that captures the essence of fall with its vibrant flavors and seasonal ingredients. This dish is a wonderful low-calorie alternative to traditional pasta, using spiralized zucchini as the base, tossed with savory pesto and juicy cherry tomatoes, making it an excellent choice for those looking to indulge in a healthy, satisfying meal under 500 calories.

Ingredients Quantity
Zucchini (spiralized) 4 medium
Cherry tomatoes 2 cups
Pesto (store-bought or homemade) 1/2 cup
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Parmesan cheese (optional) 1/4 cup (grated)
Fresh basil (for garnish) A few leaves

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Add spiralized zucchini to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until just tender but still al dente.
  3. Toss in the cherry tomatoes, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until they soften.
  4. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the pesto, mixing well to coat the zucchini noodles and tomatoes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  5. Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your vibrant Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes!
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Moroccan Spiced Carrot and Chickpea Salad

moroccan spiced carrot salad

Moroccan Spiced Carrot and Chickpea Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that combines the earthy flavors of roasted carrots and protein-packed chickpeas with aromatic spices and a tangy dressing. Perfect for a fall meal, this salad is invigorating yet hearty, making it an excellent option for those seeking a healthy dish under 500 calories.

Ingredients Quantity
Carrots (sliced) 4 medium
Canned chickpeas (drained and rinsed) 1 can (15 oz)
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Ground cumin 1 teaspoon
Ground coriander 1 teaspoon
Paprika 1/2 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Fresh parsley (chopped) 1/4 cup
Lemon juice 2 tablespoons
Feta cheese (optional, crumbled) 1/4 cup

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sliced carrots with olive oil, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and black pepper, then spread them on a baking sheet.
  2. Roast the carrots for 25-30 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
  3. In a large bowl, combine roasted carrots, chickpeas, fresh parsley, and lemon juice. Toss to blend flavors.
  4. Serve chilled or at room temperature, topped with crumbled feta cheese if desired. Enjoy your Moroccan Spiced Carrot and Chickpea Salad!

Sautéed Kale and White Bean Tacos

healthy kale and bean tacos

Sautéed Kale and White Bean Tacos are a delicious and healthy meal option perfect for a cozy fall dinner. These tacos are packed with nutrient-rich kale and protein-filled white beans, all brought together with spices and served in warm tortillas. Great for a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, these tacos are satisfying yet light at under 500 calories.

Ingredients Quantity
Corn tortillas 8 small
Fresh kale (roughly chopped) 4 cups
Canned white beans (drained and rinsed) 1 can (15 oz)
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Ground cumin 1 teaspoon
Chili powder 1/2 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Lime juice 2 tablespoons
Avocado (sliced, for topping) 1 medium
Fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish) 1/4 cup

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat; add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Add chopped kale, white beans, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper, cooking until the kale wilts (about 5-7 minutes).
  3. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and stir to combine.
  4. Warm corn tortillas in a separate pan or microwave.
  5. Assemble tacos by spooning the kale and white bean mixture onto tortillas and topping with sliced avocado and fresh cilantro. Serve warm 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.