11 Fast Fall Dinners for Late Workdays

quick meals for busy evenings

One-Pan Chicken and Autumn Vegetables

one pan chicken vegetable bake
Ingredients Quantity
Bone-in chicken thighs 4
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt 1 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Paprika 1 teaspoon
Garlic powder 1 teaspoon
Brussels sprouts 2 cups, halved
Carrots 2 medium, sliced
Sweet potatoes 2 medium, cubed
Red onion 1 large, sliced
Fresh thyme 2 teaspoons, chopped

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a large baking dish, arrange the chicken thighs and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
  3. Add the Brussels sprouts, carrots, sweet potatoes, and red onion to the pan, tossing everything to coat evenly.
  4. Sprinkle fresh thyme over the top.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
  6. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious and easy one-pan dinner!
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Quick Pumpkin Risotto

creamy pumpkin risotto recipe

Quick Pumpkin Risotto is a creamy and comforting dish perfect for a cozy autumn dinner. By incorporating canned pumpkin puree, this risotto not only has a vibrant color but also offers a delightful flavor that pairs wonderfully with savory herbs and Parmesan cheese. It’s a simple, yet elegant meal that can be prepared in about 30 minutes.

Ingredients Quantity
Arborio rice 1 cup
Chicken or vegetable broth 4 cups
Canned pumpkin puree 1 cup
Onion (finely chopped) 1 medium
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Parmesan cheese (grated) 1/2 cup
Sage (fresh or dried) 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a saucepan, heat the broth over medium heat and keep it warm.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
  3. Stir in the Arborio rice and toast for 1-2 minutes, ensuring the rice is well coated.
  4. Begin adding the warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Add more broth as it is absorbed by the rice, continuing until the rice is creamy and al dente (about 18-20 minutes).
  5. Stir in the pumpkin puree, Parmesan cheese, sage, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
  6. Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh sage if desired. Enjoy your luscious pumpkin risotto!
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30-Minute Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

quick beef and broccoli stir fry

Minute Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a quick and flavorful dish that makes for a perfect weeknight dinner when you’re short on time. This stir-fry combines tender strips of beef with vibrant broccoli florets, all coated in a savory sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, it pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Ingredients Quantity
Beef sirloin (sliced) 1 pound
Broccoli florets 2 cups
Soy sauce 1/4 cup
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Ginger (grated) 1 teaspoon
Cornstarch 1 tablespoon
Vegetable oil 2 tablespoons
Sesame oil 1 teaspoon
Green onions (sliced) 2 (for garnish)
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a bowl, combine sliced beef, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the marinated beef and cook for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add broccoli and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
  5. Return the beef to the skillet, add sesame oil, and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with green onions. Enjoy your quick and delicious beef and broccoli stir-fry!
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Fast Chili With Sweet Potatoes

hearty sweet potato chili

Fast Chili With Sweet Potatoes is a warm and hearty dish that brings a cozy touch to any fall dinner. Loaded with sweet potatoes, beans, and spices, this chili is both nutritious and filling. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, as it can be ready in about 30 minutes, allowing you to enjoy a wholesome meal in no time.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion (chopped) 1 medium
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Sweet potatoes (diced) 2 medium
Canned diced tomatoes 1 (14.5 oz) can
Canned black beans 1 (15 oz) can
Canned kidney beans 1 (15 oz) can
Chili powder 2 tablespoons
Ground cumin 1 teaspoon
Vegetable broth 2 cups
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until onions are translucent.
  2. Stir in diced sweet potatoes, canned tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, and vegetable broth.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are tender.
  4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy your delicious fast chili with sweet potatoes!
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Sheet Pan Sausage and Brussels Sprouts

one pan sausage and sprouts

Sheet Pan Sausage and Brussels Sprouts is a simple yet satisfying one-pan meal perfect for busy fall evenings. This dish pairs juicy sausage with roasted Brussels sprouts and seasonings for a delightful combination of flavors and textures, all cooked together on a single sheet pan for easy cleanup.

Ingredients Quantity
Sausage (Italian or chicken) 1 pound
Brussels sprouts (halved) 1 pound
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Garlic powder 1 teaspoon
Onion powder 1 teaspoon
Paprika 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. On a large sheet pan, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well coated.
  3. Add the sausage, cut into bite-sized pieces, to the sheet pan and mix everything together.
  4. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the sausages are cooked through and Brussels sprouts are nicely browned.
  5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your fast and flavorful Sheet Pan Sausage and Brussels Sprouts dinner!
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Creamy Tomato Soup With Grilled Cheese Croutons

creamy tomato soup recipe

Creamy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly fall evenings. This rich and velvety soup pairs beautifully with crispy grilled cheese croutons that add a delightful crunch and flavor, making it a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out.

Ingredients Quantity
Canned crushed tomatoes 28 ounces
Vegetable or chicken broth 2 cups
Heavy cream 1 cup
Onion (diced) 1 medium
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Sugar 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Bread (for croutons) 4 slices
Cheddar cheese (sliced) 4 slices
Fresh basil (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat; add diced onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
  2. Add crushed tomatoes, broth, sugar, salt, and pepper; simmer for about 20 minutes.
  3. Stir in heavy cream and blend the soup until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  4. For the croutons, grill bread with cheese slices until golden and melty, then cut into cubes.
  5. Serve the soup hot, topped with grilled cheese croutons and fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons!
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Speedy Beef Tacos With Roasted Corn

quick beef tacos recipe

Speedy Beef Tacos with Roasted Corn are a quick and flavorful dinner option, perfect for busy fall evenings. These tacos boast seasoned ground beef cradled in soft tortillas, topped with sweet roasted corn and your choice of fresh garnishes for a satisfying meal that can be prepared in no time.

Ingredients Quantity
Ground beef 1 pound
Taco seasoning 1 packet (1 ounce)
Corn (frozen or fresh) 1 cup
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Tortillas (soft) 8
Shredded cheese (optional) 1 cup
Salsa (optional) 1 cup
Fresh cilantro (for garnish) Optional
Lime wedges (for serving) Optional

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat; add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
  2. Stir in taco seasoning and a bit of water, cooking until well combined and heated through.
  3. If using fresh corn, roast it in a separate pan until lightly charred. For frozen corn, sauté until heated.
  4. Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
  5. Assemble tacos by filling tortillas with beef, roasted corn, cheese, salsa, and cilantro.
  6. Serve with lime wedges on the side. Enjoy your Speedy Beef Tacos with Roasted Corn!
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Lemon Garlic Shrimp With Quinoa

lemon garlic shrimp quinoa recipe

Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Quinoa is a light and invigorating meal that comes together in a snap, making it an excellent choice for busy fall evenings. This dish features juicy shrimp sautéed in a zesty lemon-garlic sauce, served alongside fluffy quinoa for a wholesome and satisfying dinner option.

Ingredients Quantity
Shrimp (peeled and deveined) 1 pound
Quinoa 1 cup
Chicken or vegetable broth 2 cups
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Garlic (minced) 4 cloves
Lemon juice 2 tablespoons
Lemon zest 1 teaspoon
Fresh parsley (chopped) 1/4 cup
Salt and pepper To taste
Red pepper flakes (optional) 1/4 teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Rinse quinoa under cold water, then cook it according to package instructions using chicken or vegetable broth.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
  3. Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, and cook until shrimp are pink and opaque.
  4. Stir in lemon juice and zest, then remove from heat and mix in chopped parsley.
  5. Serve shrimp over cooked quinoa, garnishing with additional parsley if desired. Enjoy your Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Quinoa!
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Spicy Lentil and Kale Stew

hearty spicy lentil stew

Spicy Lentil and Kale Stew is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for chilly fall evenings. Packed with protein-rich lentils and nutrient-dense kale, this stew is bursting with flavors from spices and fresh vegetables. It comes together easily in one pot, making it a convenient choice for busy weeknights.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion (chopped) 1 medium
Carrot (diced) 1 medium
Celery (diced) 1 stalk
Garlic (minced) 3 cloves
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Dried lentils 1 cup
Kale (chopped) 2 cups
Canned diced tomatoes 1 can (14.5 oz)
Ground cumin 1 teaspoon
Smoked paprika 1 teaspoon
Red pepper flakes To taste
Salt and pepper To taste
Fresh lemon juice 1 tablespoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté onion, carrot, and celery until softened.
  2. Add minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes; cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth; bring to a boil and then reduce heat to simmer for about 25-30 minutes, until lentils are tender.
  4. Add chopped kale and cook for an additional 5 minutes; season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.
  5. Serve hot, enjoying the rich flavors of this Spicy Lentil and Kale Stew!
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Easy Skillet Apple Pork Chops

savory apple pork chops

Easy Skillet Apple Pork Chops is a delightful fall dish that brings together the savory goodness of pork chops and the sweet, crisp flavor of apples. This one-pan meal is not only quick to prepare but also offers a perfect balance of sweetness and savory that makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

Ingredients Quantity
Bone-in pork chops 4 (1-inch thick)
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt and pepper To taste
Granny Smith apples 2 (sliced)
Onion (thinly sliced) 1 medium
Fresh thyme 1 tablespoon
Chicken broth 1/2 cup
Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon
Butter 2 tablespoons

Cooking Steps:

  1. Season pork chops with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the pork chops for 4-5 minutes on each side until browned. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add sliced apples and onion; sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in thyme, chicken broth, and Dijon mustard; bring to a simmer.
  4. Return the pork chops to the skillet, cover, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until cooked through.
  5. Stir in butter for a glossy finish, then serve warm. Enjoy your Easy Skillet Apple Pork Chops!

Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup

creamy butternut squash soup

Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup is a creamy, comforting dish perfect for fall evenings. This warm and velvety soup is packed with flavors from roasted butternut squash, spices, and a hint of sweetness, making it a great choice for a cozy dinner or a satisfying lunch. Plus, it’s quick and simple to prepare in an Instant Pot, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness in no time.

Ingredients Quantity
Butternut squash (peeled and cubed) 4 cups
Onion (chopped) 1 medium
Carrots (chopped) 2 medium
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Coconut milk 1 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Salt and pepper To taste
Fresh parsley (optional) For garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. Turn on the Instant Pot and select the sauté function. Heat olive oil, then add onion, carrots, and garlic. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
  2. Add cubed butternut squash, vegetable broth, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  3. Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and select the manual pressure cook setting for 10 minutes.
  4. Once cooking is complete, carefully quick release the pressure. Blend the soup using an immersion blender or in batches in a regular blender until smooth.
  5. Stir in coconut milk for creaminess, adjust seasonings if needed, and serve hot garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy your Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup!

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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.