11 Fall Nights Dinner Recipes Kids Will Eat

kid friendly autumn dinner recipes

Creamy Pumpkin Pasta

creamy pumpkin pasta recipe

Creamy Pumpkin Pasta is a delightful and comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of fall, making it perfect for kids and the whole family. This creamy sauce, made with pumpkin, is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, ensuring that your dinner is both tasty and healthy. It’s a quick and easy recipe that can become a favorite during the autumn season.

Ingredients Quantity
Pasta (penne or fusilli) 8 oz (227 g)
Canned pumpkin puree 1 cup (240 ml)
Heavy cream 1 cup (240 ml)
Grated Parmesan cheese ½ cup (50 g)
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste
Fresh spinach (optional) 2 cups (60 g)

Cooking Steps:

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
  3. Stir in the pumpkin puree and heavy cream, mixing well to combine and then simmer for about 5 minutes.
  4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce; mix in grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
  5. If using, stir in the fresh spinach until wilted, then serve warm. Enjoy your creamy pumpkin pasta!
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Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole

cheesy chicken rice casserole

Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a hearty, family-friendly dish that offers a comforting combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and ooey-gooey cheese. It’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights, bringing together wholesome ingredients in one baked dish that kids will love. This casserole is not only filling but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect fall dinner option.

Ingredients Quantity
Cooked chicken (shredded) 2 cups (300 g)
Cooked rice 2 cups (300 g)
Cheddar cheese (shredded) 1 ½ cups (150 g)
Cream of chicken soup 1 can (10.5 oz)
Milk ½ cup (120 ml)
Frozen mixed vegetables 1 cup (150 g)
Garlic powder 1 teaspoon
Onion powder 1 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste
Fresh parsley (optional) For garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, mixed vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  3. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread evenly.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is bubbly.
  5. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, serve warm, and enjoy your cheesy chicken and rice casserole!
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Butternut Squash and Sage Soup

creamy butternut squash soup

Butternut Squash and Sage Soup is a delightful and creamy autumnal soup that’s perfect for warming up on chilly fall evenings. This dish features the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash combined with the earthy flavor of sage, creating a wholesome, nutritious meal that kids will enjoy. It’s simple to prepare, making it an ideal dinner option for families.

Ingredients Quantity
Butternut squash (peeled, cubed) 4 cups (about 1 medium squash)
Onion (chopped) 1 medium
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Vegetable broth 4 cups (960 ml)
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Fresh sage leaves (chopped) 1 tablespoon
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste
Heavy cream (optional) ½ cup (120 ml)

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed 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, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped sage, cooking for an additional minute.
  3. Add the roasted squash and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
  4. Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or a regular blender. If desired, stir in heavy cream for added richness.
  5. Serve warm, garnished with extra sage if desired, and enjoy your comforting butternut squash and sage soup!
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Sloppy Joe Sweet Potato Skins

sloppy joe sweet potato skins

Sloppy Joe Sweet Potato Skins are a fun and creative twist on the classic Sloppy Joe sandwich, making them a perfect dinner option for kids. This dish features crispy sweet potato skins filled with a tasty and mildly spiced ground beef mixture, topped with cheese and served with a side of coleslaw or veggies. It’s nutritious and packed with flavor, sure to be a hit with the little ones!

Ingredients Quantity
Sweet potatoes (medium) 4
Ground beef 1 pound (450 g)
Onion (chopped) 1 medium
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Ketchup ½ cup (120 ml)
Worcestershire sauce 1 tablespoon
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste
Shredded cheddar cheese 1 cup (100 g)
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Optional toppings (e.g., sliced green onions, pickles) As desired

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Poke holes in the sweet potatoes with a fork, rub with olive oil, and bake for about 45-60 minutes until tender.
  2. While the sweet potatoes are baking, cook the ground beef in a pan over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat, then add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until soft.
  3. Stir in ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper, simmer for a few minutes until heated through.
  4. Once the sweet potatoes are done, carefully cut them in half lengthwise and scoop out a portion of the flesh, leaving enough to hold the filling.
  5. Fill each sweet potato half with the Sloppy Joe mixture, top with shredded cheese, and return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Serve warm, garnished with any optional toppings if desired, and enjoy this delicious twist on a family favorite!
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Apple Cinnamon Chicken

apple cinnamon chicken delight

Apple Cinnamon Chicken is a delightful and wholesome dish that combines the savory flavor of chicken with the sweetness of apples and a warm hint of cinnamon. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers a hint of fall in every bite. Perfect for kids, it’s sure to bring smiles to the dinner table!

Ingredients Quantity
Chicken breasts (boneless) 4
Apples (cored and sliced) 2
Onion (sliced) 1 medium
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Brown sugar 2 tablespoons
Chicken broth 1 cup (240 ml)
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
  2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear them in the skillet for about 5-7 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
  3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add sliced onions and apples; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Stir in cinnamon and brown sugar, mixing until combined. Pour in the chicken broth, bringing it to a simmer.
  5. Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  6. Serve hot, ensuring each plate has a good mixture of chicken and sweet apple mixture for a delicious fall-inspired dinner!
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Turkey and Vegetable Pot Pie

hearty turkey vegetable potpie

Turkey and Vegetable Pot Pie is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender turkey with a medley of vegetables, all encased in a flaky pie crust. This recipe is perfect for chilly fall nights and is a great way to get kids excited about vegetables while enjoying a classic favorite.

Ingredients Quantity
Cooked turkey (shredded) 2 cups
Mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn) 2 cups
Onion (chopped) 1 medium
Celery (chopped) 1 stalk
Chicken or turkey broth 1 cup (240 ml)
Flour 3 tablespoons
Butter 3 tablespoons
Milk 1/2 cup (120 ml)
Frozen pie crust 1 (9-inch)
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste
Dried thyme 1/2 teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and celery, cooking until they’re softened (about 5 minutes).
  3. Stir in the mixed vegetables, followed by the flour, salt, pepper, and thyme; cook for another 2 minutes.
  4. Gradually add the broth and milk, stirring until the mixture thickens.
  5. Fold in the shredded turkey and remove from heat.
  6. Pour the turkey and vegetable mixture into the pie crust, cover with the top crust, and seal the edges.
  7. Cut slits in the top for steam to escape, then bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
  8. Let it cool slightly before serving, and enjoy your delicious turkey and vegetable pot pie!
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One-Pan Sausage and Brussels Sprouts

one pan sausage and brussels sprouts

One-Pan Sausage and Brussels Sprouts is a flavorful and colorful dish that combines savory sausage with crunchy Brussels sprouts, all cooked together in a single pan for a quick and easy meal. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and will have kids enjoying the naturally sweet and nutty flavor of Brussels sprouts alongside the deliciousness of sausage.

Ingredients Quantity
Sausage (Italian or your choice) 1 pound
Brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved) 1 pound
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste
Balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon
Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping) 1/4 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large baking sheet or pan, combine the sausage, Brussels sprouts, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper; toss well to coat.
  3. Spread the mixture in a single layer and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the sausage is browned and the Brussels sprouts are tender.
  4. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and toss again, then return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.
  5. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy your easy and delicious one-pan meal!
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Mini Meatloaf Muffins

mini meatloaf muffins recipe

Mini Meatloaf Muffins are a fun and kid-friendly twist on the classic meatloaf. These individual-sized servings are flavorful, easy to prepare, and can be customized with various ingredients to suit your family’s taste. Perfect for lunchboxes or dinner, these muffins are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients Quantity
Ground beef (or turkey) 1 pound
Breadcrumbs 1 cup
Onion (finely chopped) 1 small
Egg 1 large
Ketchup 1/4 cup
Worcestershire sauce 1 tablespoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Mixed vegetables (optional) 1/2 cup
Shredded cheese (optional) 1/2 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and optional mixed vegetables. Mix until well combined.
  3. Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
  4. Top each muffin with a small dollop of ketchup for extra flavor.
  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and the muffins are slightly browned on top.
  6. Allow to cool for a few minutes before removing from the tin, then serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Mini Meatloaf Muffins!
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Baked Mac and Cheese With Spinach

creamy spinach mac and cheese

Baked Mac and Cheese with Spinach is a creamy and comforting dish that kids and adults will love. This twist on the classic macaroni and cheese incorporates nutritious spinach, adding flavor and a pop of color. Perfect for fall dinners, it’s simple to prepare and can be made in advance for a quick weeknight meal.

Ingredients Quantity
Elbow macaroni 2 cups
Fresh spinach (chopped) 2 cups
Cheddar cheese (shredded) 2 cups
Milk 2 cups
Butter 4 tablespoons
All-purpose flour 1/4 cup
Salt 1 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon
Breadcrumbs 1/2 cup
Parmesan cheese (grated) 1/4 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 2-quart baking dish.
  2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to make a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes.
  4. Gradually whisk in the milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook until the mixture thickens.
  5. Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted, then add the chopped spinach and cooked macaroni. Mix well.
  6. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese on top.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Baked Mac and Cheese with Spinach!
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Corn and Zucchini Fritters

crispy corn zucchini fritters

Corn and Zucchini Fritters are a delightful and fun way to get kids excited about vegetables. These crispy, savory fritters combine the sweetness of corn with the mild flavor of zucchini, making them a perfect side dish or snack for fall dinners. They’re easy to prepare and can be served with a simple dipping sauce or enjoyed on their own.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh corn (kernels) 1 cup
Zucchini (grated) 1 cup
All-purpose flour 1/2 cup
Eggs 2
Green onions (chopped) 1/4 cup
Parmesan cheese (grated) 1/4 cup
Baking powder 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Olive oil For frying

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the corn, grated zucchini, flour, eggs, green onions, Parmesan cheese, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  3. Drop spoonfuls of the fritter mixture into the skillet, flattening them gently with the back of the spoon.
  4. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
  5. Remove from the skillet and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil. Serve warm, and enjoy your tasty Corn and Zucchini Fritters!

Autumn Harvest Chili

hearty autumn vegetable chili

Autumn Harvest Chili is a warm and hearty dish perfect for cool fall evenings. Packed with seasonal vegetables like pumpkin and beans, this chili not only warms the belly but also delights the taste buds. It is a fun way to introduce kids to a variety of flavors and can be easily customized to suit their preferences.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion (chopped) 1
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Bell peppers (chopped) 1 cup
Ground turkey or beef 1 pound
Canned diced tomatoes 1 can (14.5 oz)
Canned pumpkin puree 1 cup
Kidney beans (drained) 1 can (15 oz)
Black beans (drained) 1 can (15 oz)
Chili powder 2 tablespoons
Cumin 1 teaspoon
Salt 1 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Vegetable broth 2 cups

Cooking Steps:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
  2. Stir in bell peppers and ground turkey (or beef), cooking until browned.
  3. Add diced tomatoes, pumpkin puree, kidney beans, black beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, and vegetable broth to the pot. Mix well.
  4. Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm, and enjoy your flavorful Autumn Harvest Chili!

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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.