11 Fall Family Dinner Recipes Kids Love

family friendly fall dinner recipes

Cheesy Pumpkin Pasta Bake

cheesy pumpkin pasta bake

Cheesy Pumpkin Pasta Bake is a delightful, family-friendly dish that combines the comforting flavors of pasta with the creamy sweetness of pumpkin and gooey cheese, making it an ideal dish for fall dinners. This bake is not only easy to prepare but also a great way to introduce kids to the wonderful taste of pumpkin in a fun and tasty way!

Ingredients Quantity
Pasta (small shapes like elbows) 8 ounces
Pumpkin puree 1 cup
Cheddar cheese (shredded) 1.5 cups
Cream cheese 4 ounces
Milk 1 cup
Garlic powder 1 teaspoon
Onion powder 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Bread crumbs (optional) 1/2 cup

Cooking Steps Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, cream cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until smooth.
  4. Stir in the cooked pasta and half of the cheddar cheese until well combined.
  5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with the remaining cheddar cheese and bread crumbs (if using).
  6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  7. Let cool for a few minutes before serving, and enjoy your Cheesy Pumpkin Pasta Bake!
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Hearty Chicken and Rice Casserole

hearty one pan family casserole

Hearty Chicken and Rice Casserole is a warm and comforting dish perfect for family dinners, especially during the chilly fall season. This one-pan meal combines tender chicken, flavorful rice, and a mix of vegetables with creamy sauce, making it a nutritious option that kids and adults will both enjoy. It’s not only easy to prepare but also provides a satisfying and wholesome meal for the whole family.

Ingredients Quantity
Cooked chicken (shredded) 2 cups
Long-grain rice 1 cup
Chicken broth 2 cups
Cream of chicken soup 1 can (10.5 oz)
Mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh) 1.5 cups
Cheddar cheese (shredded) 1 cup
Garlic powder 1 teaspoon
Onion powder 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Fresh parsley (optional) For garnish

Cooking Steps Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, mixed vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  3. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
  4. Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
  5. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbly.
  6. Let cool slightly before serving, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your Hearty Chicken and Rice Casserole!
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Apple and Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash

apple sausage acorn squash

Apple and Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash is a delightful fall dish that combines the sweet and savory flavors of fresh apples and juicy sausage, all nestled inside tender roasted acorn squash. This dish not only looks impressive on any dinner table but also provides a nutrient-packed meal that kids will love, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients Quantity
Acorn squash 2 medium
Ground sausage (pork or turkey) 1 pound
Apples (peeled and diced) 2 medium
Onion (diced) 1 small
Celery (diced) 1 stalk
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Dried thyme 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Breadcrumbs 1 cup
Shredded cheddar cheese (optional) 1/2 cup
Fresh parsley (optional) For garnish

Cooking Steps Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Brush the insides with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and celery, cooking until softened. Add garlic and ground sausage, cooking until browned.
  4. Stir in the diced apples, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, then remove from heat.
  5. Mix in the breadcrumbs and, if desired, half of the shredded cheese.
  6. Carefully flip the acorn squash halves over and fill them with the sausage and apple mixture, packing it in gently. Top with remaining cheese if using.
  7. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your Apple and Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash!
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Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

creamy tomato basil soup

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for those chilly fall evenings. This delightful soup combines rich tomatoes with fresh basil and a touch of cream, making it a kid-friendly favorite. Served alongside a crusty piece of bread or a grilled cheese sandwich, this soup is sure to become a family staple during the fall season.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion (chopped) 1 medium
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Canned crushed tomatoes 28 ounces
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Fresh basil leaves 1/2 cup (chopped)
Heavy cream 1/2 cup
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Parmesan cheese (optional) For garnish

Cooking Steps Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion until translucent.
  2. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
  4. Stir in the chopped basil and blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or a regular blender.
  5. Return the soup to the pot, add heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Warm through, serve hot, and garnish with Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your Creamy Tomato Basil Soup!
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Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

sweet potato black bean tacos

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos are a delicious and nutritious meal that kids will love! These savory tacos feature roasted sweet potatoes that provide natural sweetness and a hearty texture, while black beans add protein and fiber. Topped with fresh avocado and a zesty lime vinaigrette, these tacos are both fun to eat and healthy, making them a perfect choice for a fall family dinner.

Ingredients Quantity
Sweet potatoes (peeled and diced) 2 medium
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Cumin 1 teaspoon
Chili powder 1 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Black beans (canned, rinsed) 1 can (15 ounces)
Corn tortillas 8-10
Avocado (sliced) 1 medium
Lime (juiced) 1
Fresh cilantro (chopped) For garnish

Cooking Steps Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer.
  2. Roast sweet potatoes in the oven for about 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
  3. While the sweet potatoes are roasting, heat the black beans in a small pot over medium heat until warmed through.
  4. Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave until pliable.
  5. Assemble the tacos by placing roasted sweet potatoes and black beans on each tortilla, then top with avocado slices, a squeeze of lime juice, and garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve and enjoy!
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Classic Beef and Vegetable Stew

hearty beef vegetable stew

Classic Beef and Vegetable Stew is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for fall family dinners. Packed with tender beef, fresh vegetables, and a rich broth, this stew is not only delicious but also a great way to get your kids to enjoy eating their veggies. With its savory flavors and warm aroma, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients Quantity
Beef chuck (cut into cubes) 2 pounds
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion (chopped) 1 large
Carrots (sliced) 2 medium
Celery (chopped) 2 stalks
Potatoes (cubed) 2 medium
Garlic (minced) 3 cloves
Beef broth 4 cups
Tomato paste 2 tablespoons
Dried thyme 1 teaspoon
Bay leaves 2
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish) For serving

Cooking Steps Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown on all sides.
  2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot, cooking until vegetables are softened.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the cubed potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until the beef is tender and flavors meld together.
  6. Remove bay leaves and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your stew with crusty bread!
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Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells

spinach and cheese delight

Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells are a delightful and satisfying dish that both kids and adults will love. These large pasta shells are filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta and spinach, topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. It’s an easy way to sneak in some nutritious greens while indulging in cheesy goodness, making it a perfect option for family dinners during the fall season.

Ingredients Quantity
Jumbo pasta shells 12-15 shells
Ricotta cheese 15 ounces
Fresh spinach (washed and chopped) 2 cups
Mozzarella cheese (shredded) 2 cups
Parmesan cheese (grated) 1/2 cup
Marinara sauce 2 cups
Egg 1 large
Garlic powder 1 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste
Fresh basil (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Steps Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  3. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Stuff each cooked shell with the cheese and spinach mixture and arrange them in the dish.
  4. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
  5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  6. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells!
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Slow Cooker Chili

hearty slow cooker chili

Slow Cooker Chili is a warm, hearty dish that is perfect for fall family dinners. Packed with protein and vibrant flavors, this chili is not only easy to prepare but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully as it cooks. It’s a crowd-pleaser that kids will love, making it a go-to recipe for cozy family nights.

Ingredients Quantity
Ground beef 1 pound
Kidney beans (canned) 1 can (15 oz)
Black beans (canned) 1 can (15 oz)
Diced tomatoes (canned) 1 can (28 oz)
Tomato sauce 1 can (15 oz)
Onion (diced) 1 medium
Green bell pepper (diced) 1 medium
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Chili powder 2 tablespoons
Cumin 1 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste
Optional toppings (sour cream, cheese, green onions) As desired

Cooking Steps Instructions

  1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
  2. In a slow cooker, combine cooked ground beef, kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, onion, green bell pepper, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  3. Stir well to mix all ingredients thoroughly.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with optional toppings if desired. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Chili!
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One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken and Quinoa

one pan chicken quinoa dish

One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken and Quinoa is a nutritious and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy fall evenings. This one-pan meal combines juicy chicken breasts, protein-packed quinoa, and a blend of herbs and garlic, making it both satisfying and simple to prepare. Plus, it allows for an easy cleanup, which is always a bonus for family dinners!

Ingredients Quantity
Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless) 4 pieces
Quinoa 1 cup
Chicken broth 2 cups
Garlic (minced) 4 cloves
Butter 4 tablespoons
Spinach (fresh) 2 cups
Lemon juice 2 tablespoons
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste
Parsley (chopped, for garnish) As desired

Cooking Steps Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
  2. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add quinoa and chicken broth to the skillet, stirring well. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy and liquid is absorbed.
  4. Stir in spinach, lemon juice, and remaining butter until spinach is wilted. Return the chicken to the skillet, combining everything together.
  5. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot. Enjoy your flavorful One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken and Quinoa!
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Vegetable and Cheese Quesadillas

cheesy vegetable quesadillas recipe

Vegetable and Cheese Quesadillas are a delightful and easy-to-make meal that kids will love. These cheesy quesadillas are packed with colorful vegetables, making them both appetizing and nutritious. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a family weekend meal, these quesadillas are sure to be a hit at the dinner table!

Ingredients Quantity
Flour tortillas 4 large
Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend) 2 cups
Bell peppers (chopped) 1 cup
Onion (thinly sliced) 1 small
Zucchini (sliced) 1 medium
Spinach (fresh) 1 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste
Salsa (for serving) As desired

Cooking Steps Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and bell peppers until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Add zucchini and spinach to the skillet, cooking until the spinach is wilted and vegetables are tender. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Place one tortilla in the skillet, sprinkle half of the cheese on one half, and then add a portion of the sautéed vegetables. Fold the tortilla over.
  4. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cheese is melted. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
  5. Slice the quesadillas into wedges and serve with salsa. Enjoy your delicious Vegetable and Cheese Quesadillas!

Homemade Macaroni and Cheese With Broccoli

creamy macaroni with broccoli

Homemade Macaroni and Cheese with Broccoli is a classic comfort food dish that puts a nutritious twist on a beloved favorite. This creamy, cheesy pasta is enhanced with vibrant, tender broccoli florets, making it a great way to sneak in some veggies while satisfying even the pickiest eaters. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, this recipe is both simple and delicious!

Ingredients Quantity
Elbow macaroni 2 cups
Broccoli florets 2 cups
Butter 4 tablespoons
All-purpose flour 1/4 cup
Milk 2 cups
Shredded cheddar cheese 2 cups
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste
Breadcrumbs (optional for topping) 1/2 cup

Cooking Steps Instructions

  1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions; add broccoli in the last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux.
  3. Gradually whisk in milk, cooking until the mixture thickens. Stir in cheese, salt, and pepper until melted and smooth.
  4. Combine the cooked macaroni and broccoli with the cheese sauce, stirring well to coat.
  5. Pour into a greased baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top if desired, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden. Enjoy your Homemade Macaroni and Cheese with Broccoli!

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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.