11 Fall Dinner Recipes in Under an Hour

quick autumn meal ideas

Hearty Pumpkin Soup

creamy pumpkin soup recipe

Hearty Pumpkin Soup is a warm and comforting dish perfect for fall dinners. This creamy soup is packed with the rich flavors of pumpkin, spices, and a hint of sweetness, making it a soothing choice for crisp autumn evenings. It’s not only delicious but also nourishing, offering a great way to enjoy seasonal ingredients.

Ingredients Quantity
Pumpkin (peeled and diced) 4 cups
Onion 1 medium, chopped
Garlic 3 cloves, minced
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Coconut milk 1 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Ground cumin 1 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste
Fresh parsley (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
  2. Stir in the diced pumpkin, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes until the pumpkin begins to soften.
  3. Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a simmer, and cook until the pumpkin is tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Stir in coconut milk and heat through.
  5. Adjust seasoning as needed, serve hot, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
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One-Pan Chicken and Autumn Vegetables

one pan chicken vegetable feast

One-Pan Chicken and Autumn Vegetables is a deliciously easy and wholesome dish perfect for a fall dinner. This recipe combines tender chicken thighs with a vibrant array of seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, and carrots, all roasted together for a harmony of flavors and textures. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for a cozy evening with family or friends.

Ingredients Quantity
Chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on) 4 pieces
Brussels sprouts, halved 2 cups
Butternut squash, diced 2 cups
Carrots, sliced 2 large
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Fresh thyme 2 teaspoons
Garlic powder 1 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large baking dish, toss the vegetables with olive oil, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Nestle the chicken thighs among the vegetables, skin side up.
  4. Roast in the oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
  5. Serve hot, allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes before digging in.
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Quinoa Salad With Roasted Beets and Goat Cheese

vibrant quinoa salad recipe

Quinoa Salad with Roasted Beets and Goat Cheese is a vibrant and nutritious dish that’s perfect for a fall dinner. The earthiness of the roasted beets pairs beautifully with the creamy goat cheese and the nutty flavor of quinoa, creating a satisfying meal that is both invigorating and hearty. This salad makes a great side dish or can be enjoyed as a light main course.

Ingredients Quantity
Quinoa 1 cup
Beets, roasted and diced 2 medium
Goat cheese, crumbled 4 ounces
Fresh spinach 4 cups
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons
Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap the beets in foil and roast for about 45-60 minutes until tender. Let cool, then peel and dice.
  2. Rinse the quinoa under cold water and cook it according to the package instructions; usually, this means combining it with 2 cups of water, bringing to a boil, then reducing to a simmer for 15 minutes.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
  4. Once the quinoa and beets are cooled, add them to the bowl with fresh spinach, and toss gently with the dressing.
  5. Finally, top with crumbled goat cheese and serve immediately or let chill for an invigorating salad.
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Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

creamy tomato basil pasta

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is a comforting and delicious dish that embodies the cozy flavors of fall. This pasta is creamy, rich, and infused with the fresh taste of basil, making it a perfect main course for any autumn dinner. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal that your family will love.

Ingredients Quantity
Pasta (fettuccine or penne) 12 ounces
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Garlic, minced 3 cloves
Canned crushed tomatoes 28 ounces
Heavy cream 1 cup
Fresh basil leaves, chopped 1/2 cup
Parmesan cheese, grated 1/2 cup
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  3. Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for another 5 minutes.
  5. Add the cooked pasta, chopped basil, and grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Toss until well combined and heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil and Parmesan if desired.
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Quick Beef Stroganoff

creamy beef mushroom noodles

Quick Beef Stroganoff is a classic comfort food that combines tender strips of beef with a creamy mushroom sauce, all served over a bed of egg noodles or rice for a hearty meal. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, as it can be prepared in under an hour while delivering rich flavors that evoke the warmth of fall.

Ingredients Quantity
Beef sirloin, cut into strips 1 pound
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion, chopped 1 medium
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Mushrooms, sliced 8 ounces
Beef broth 1 cup
Sour cream 1 cup
Worcestershire sauce 1 tablespoon
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste
Egg noodles (or rice) 8 ounces (for serving)

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips and cook until browned on all sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent. Add mushrooms and cook until softened.
  3. Return the beef to the skillet, then add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes.
  4. Reduce heat and stir in sour cream; cook until heated through without boiling. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Serve over cooked egg noodles or rice, garnished with parsley if desired. Enjoy!
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Super Simple Butternut Squash Risotto

creamy butternut squash risotto

Super Simple Butternut Squash Risotto is a creamy, hearty dish that celebrates the flavors of fall with the addition of sweet butternut squash. This risotto features arborio rice cooked slowly with broth, allowing it to absorb all the delicious flavors, creating a comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly nights. It’s an accessible recipe that can be made in about 30 minutes.

Ingredients Quantity
Arborio rice 1 cup
Butternut squash, diced 2 cups
Onion, chopped 1 medium
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Parmesan cheese, grated 1/2 cup
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste
Fresh sage, chopped (optional) 2 tablespoons

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a saucepan, heat the vegetable broth and keep warm over low heat.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
  3. Add the diced butternut squash to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes until it begins to soften.
  4. Stir in the arborio rice, allowing it to toast for 1-2 minutes, then add a ladleful of the warm vegetable broth.
  5. Continue adding broth gradually, stirring frequently until the rice is creamy and cooked al dente (about 18-20 minutes).
  6. Remove from heat, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt, pepper, and chopped sage if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
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Cider-Glazed Pork Chops

cider glazed pork chop recipe

Cider-Glazed Pork Chops are a delicious way to embrace the flavors of fall, combining the savory richness of pork with the sweet and tangy notes of apple cider. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner and is easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for weeknight meals or special occasions.

Ingredients Quantity
Bone-in pork chops 4 (1-inch thick)
Apple cider 1 cup
Brown sugar 2 tablespoons
Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Fresh thyme (optional) 2 sprigs

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a medium bowl, mix apple cider, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create the glaze.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season pork chops with salt and pepper, then cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until browned.
  3. Pour the cider glaze over the pork chops, reduce heat to medium, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, basting with the glaze until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F).
  4. Remove from heat, let rest for a few minutes, garnish with fresh thyme if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy your flavorful meal!
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Spinach and Feta Stuffed Peppers

spinach feta stuffed peppers

Spinach and Feta Stuffed Peppers are a healthy and flavorful dish that make for a wonderful fall dinner option. These vibrant bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of sautéed spinach, creamy feta cheese, and aromatic herbs, creating a comforting yet light meal that is perfect for utilizing seasonal produce.

Ingredients Quantity
Bell peppers (any color) 4 large
Fresh spinach, chopped 2 cups
Feta cheese, crumbled 1 cup
Cooked rice 1 cup
Onion, diced 1 medium
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional) For topping

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, then sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until translucent.
  3. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted; remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach mixture with cooked rice, crumbled feta, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  5. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Stuff each pepper generously with the spinach and feta mixture.
  6. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish, optionally sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, and cover with foil.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender. Serve warm and enjoy!
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Lemon Herb Shrimp With Rice

lemon herb shrimp delight

Lemon Herb Shrimp with Rice is a vibrant and zesty dish that highlights the flavors of succulent shrimp paired with a revitalizing lemon herb marinade. This dish is perfect for fall dinners as it brings a burst of brightness to your table, while still being light and satisfying. Served over a bed of fluffy rice, it’s an easy and delicious way to enjoy seafood in the comfort of your home.

Ingredients Quantity
Shrimp, peeled and deveined 1 pound
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Garlic, minced 3 cloves
Lemon juice 1/4 cup
Fresh parsley, chopped 1/4 cup
Fresh thyme, chopped 1 tablespoon
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Cooked rice 2 cups
Lemon wedges (for serving) For garnish

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
  2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the marinated shrimp; cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
  4. Serve the cooked shrimp over a bed of rice, garnished with lemon wedges, and enjoy!
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Easy Vegetable and Bean Chili

hearty vegetable and bean chili

Easy Vegetable and Bean Chili is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for fall dinners. This chili is packed with nutritious vegetables and a blend of beans, making it a filling vegetarian option that is both delicious and easy to prepare. Its bold flavors and warm spices make it an excellent choice for cozy evenings, whether enjoyed alone or with cornbread on the side.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion, chopped 1 medium
Garlic, minced 3 cloves
Bell peppers, chopped 2 (any color)
Carrot, diced 1 medium
Celery, diced 2 stalks
Canned diced tomatoes 1 (14.5 ounces)
Canned black beans, drained 1 (15 ounces)
Canned kidney beans, drained 1 (15 ounces)
Vegetable broth 2 cups
Chili powder 2 tablespoons
Cumin 1 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat; sauté onion and garlic until softened.
  2. Add bell peppers, carrot, and celery; cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Stir in diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper; bring to a simmer.
  4. Reduce heat and let chili cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until veggies are tender.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy!

Spiced Apple and Sausage Skillet

savory sausage and apples

Spiced Apple and Sausage Skillet is a warm and satisfying dish that captures the flavors of fall with its combination of savory sausage, sweet apples, and aromatic spices. This one-skillet meal is not only easy to prepare but also provides a delightful balance of textures and tastes, making it perfect for a hearty dinner on a chilly autumn evening.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Pork or chicken sausage, sliced 1 pound
Onion, chopped 1 medium
Apples, cored and sliced 2 medium
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) Optional

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat; add sausage and cook until browned.
  2. Stir in the onion and cook until softened, then add the garlic and cook for another minute.
  3. Add the sliced apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper; cook until apples are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. 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.