11 Hearty Stews and Casseroles for Fall

comforting fall recipes collection

Classic Beef Stew

hearty comforting fall stew

Classic Beef Stew is a quintessential fall dish, perfect for cozy evenings and communal gatherings. This hearty, comforting stew is packed with tender chunks of beef, rich vegetables, and a savory broth, making it an ideal choice for warming up on cooler days. As the ingredients meld together during slow cooking, the flavors deepen, resulting in a deliciously satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients Quantity
Beef chuck 2 pounds
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion 1 large, diced
Carrots 3, sliced
Celery 2 stalks, chopped
Garlic 3 cloves, minced
Beef broth 4 cups
Red wine 1 cup
Tomato paste 2 tablespoons
Bay leaf 1
Thyme (dried) 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Potatoes 2, diced
Peas (optional) 1 cup

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat and brown the beef on all sides. Remove and set aside.
  2. Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté until softened.
  3. Stir in the garlic, followed by the tomato paste, then add the red wine to deglaze the pot.
  4. Return the beef to the pot, and add the beef broth, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  5. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the beef is tender.
  6. Add the potatoes and cook for an additional 30 minutes. If using, stir in the peas just before serving. Enjoy your hearty classic beef stew!
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Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Casserole

comforting chicken mushroom casserole

Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that perfectly embodies the essence of fall. This flavorful casserole combines tender pieces of chicken with earthy mushrooms and a creamy sauce, all baked together to create a warm and inviting meal that is perfect for sharing with family and friends during colder evenings.

Ingredients Quantity
Chicken breasts (boneless) 4, diced
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion 1 large, diced
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Mushrooms 8 ounces, sliced
Chicken broth 2 cups
Heavy cream 1 cup
Thyme (dried) 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Rice (uncooked) 1 cup
Parmesan cheese ½ cup, grated
Fresh parsley (optional) for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat; sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
  3. Add the mushrooms and cook until tender, then stir in the chicken until cooked through.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream; season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
  5. Stir in the uncooked rice and mix well.
  6. Transfer mixture to a baking dish, top with parmesan cheese, and cover with foil.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy chicken and mushroom casserole!
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Hearty Vegetable and Lentil Stew

nourishing vegetable lentil stew

Hearty Vegetable and Lentil Stew is a robust and nourishing meal that warms you from the inside out during the chilly fall months. Packed with nutritious vegetables and protein-rich lentils, this stew is not only delicious but also makes for a perfect dish to enjoy with loved ones on a cozy evening. The combination of spices brings depth and warmth, making it an ideal choice for fall dining.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion 1 large, diced
Carrots 2, diced
Celery 2 stalks, diced
Garlic 3 cloves, minced
Bell pepper 1, diced
Zucchini 1, diced
Canned tomatoes 1 can (14 ounces)
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Green or brown lentils 1 cup, rinsed and drained
Thyme (dried) 1 teaspoon
Cumin 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Spinach (fresh or frozen) 2 cups

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat; sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
  2. Add the garlic and bell pepper, cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
  3. Stir in the zucchini, canned tomatoes, vegetable broth, lentils, thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
  5. Stir in the spinach, cooking until just wilted. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty vegetable and lentil stew!
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Shepherd’s Pie With a Twist

savory meat and vegetable pie

Shepherd’s Pie With a Twist is a delightful twist on the traditional comfort food, combining a savory filling of seasoned ground meat and vegetables with a creamy, buttery mash topping. This hearty dish is perfect for fall, providing warmth and satisfaction on colder nights. It’s an easy-to-make meal that can bring family and friends together around the dinner table.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Ground beef or lamb 1 pound
Onion 1 large, diced
Carrots 2, diced
Peas 1 cup
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Worcestershire sauce 2 tablespoons
Beef broth 1 cup
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Potatoes 4 large, peeled
Milk ½ cup
Butter 4 tablespoons
Cheese (optional) ½ cup, shredded

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and garlic, sautéing until softened.
  3. Add the ground beef or lamb, cooking until browned. Stir in peas, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, salt, and pepper; simmer for 5 minutes.
  4. While the meat is cooking, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with milk, butter, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  5. Spread the meat mixture in a baking dish and top with the mashed potatoes, smoothing out the surface. Optionally, sprinkle cheese on top.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes, then serve and enjoy your Shepherd’s Pie With a Twist!
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Spicy Turkey Chili

spicy lean turkey chili

Spicy Turkey Chili is a warm and comforting dish that epitomizes the flavors of fall, bringing a delightful heat and heartiness to your table. Packed with lean ground turkey, beans, and a variety of spices, this chili makes for a perfect centerpiece at any gathering or as a cozy meal on a chilly evening. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite toppings, making it a versatile and satisfying option for all.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Ground turkey 1 pound
Onion 1 large, diced
Bell pepper 1, diced
Garlic 3 cloves, minced
Canned diced tomatoes 1 can (14.5 oz)
Kidney beans 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
Black beans 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
Chili powder 2 tablespoons
Cumin 1 tablespoon
Paprika 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Hot sauce (optional) to taste
Fresh cilantro (optional) for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat, then add onion, bell pepper, and garlic, cooking until softened.
  2. Stir in the ground turkey, cooking until browned and cooked through.
  3. Add canned diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  4. Let the chili simmer for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and thicken.
  5. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding hot sauce if you desire more heat.
  6. Serve hot with optional cilantro garnish and your choice of toppings. Enjoy your Spicy Turkey Chili!
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Potato and Leek Casserole

creamy potato leek casserole

Potato and Leek Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish that perfectly embodies the essence of fall. This hearty casserole features layers of tender potatoes and sweet leeks, all enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce. Its warm, satisfying flavors and comforting textures make it an ideal accompaniment to any autumn meal or a delicious stand-alone dish for a cozy night in.

Ingredients Quantity
Potatoes (Yukon Gold) 2 pounds, thinly sliced
Leeks 2 large, cleaned and sliced
Heavy cream 2 cups
Gruyère cheese, shredded 1 ½ cups
Parmesan cheese, grated ½ cup
Butter 3 tablespoons
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh thyme (optional) for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat, add leeks and garlic, and sauté until tender.
  3. In a baking dish, layer half of the potatoes, followed by half of the sautéed leeks, and half of the cheese; repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
  4. Pour the heavy cream evenly over the top and season with salt and pepper.
  5. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  6. Let it cool slightly before serving, and garnish with fresh thyme if desired. Enjoy your Potato and Leek Casserole!
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Slow-Cooker Beef Bourguignon

slow cooker beef bourguignon recipe

Slow-Cooker Beef Bourguignon is a classic French dish that is perfect for the fall season, combining tender chunks of beef with aromatic vegetables, rich red wine, and a variety of herbs. This hearty stew is ideal for those chilly evenings, as it simmers slowly, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully while the meat becomes fork-tender and succulent.

Ingredients Quantity
Beef chuck, cut into chunks 2 pounds
Red wine (Burgundy or similar) 2 cups
Beef broth 1 cup
Carrots, sliced 3 medium
Celery, sliced 2 stalks
Onion, chopped 1 large
Garlic, minced 3 cloves
Tomato paste 2 tablespoons
Fresh thyme 1 teaspoon
Bay leaf 1
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Mushrooms, quartered 8 ounces
Fresh parsley (for garnish) chopped

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and brown the beef chunks in batches; transfer to the slow cooker.
  2. In the same skillet, add onions and garlic, sauté for two minutes, then add carrots, celery, and mushrooms, cooking until softened.
  3. Stir in tomato paste, red wine, and beef broth; bring to a simmer before adding to the slow cooker.
  4. Add thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper; stir meticulously to combine.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender.
  6. Remove the bay leaf, adjust seasoning if necessary, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your Slow-Cooker Beef Bourguignon!
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Harvest Vegetable Stew

nutritious autumn vegetable stew

Harvest Vegetable Stew is a vibrant and nutritious dish that showcases the bounty of the fall harvest. This hearty stew is packed with seasonal vegetables such as squash, potatoes, and leafy greens, simmered in a savory broth with aromatic herbs. It’s perfect for warming you up on cool autumn days and is entirely vegetarian, making it a great choice for both meat-lovers and vegetarians alike.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion, chopped 1 large
Garlic, minced 3 cloves
Carrots, diced 2 medium
Celery, diced 2 stalks
Potatoes, diced 2 medium
Butternut squash, peeled and diced 2 cups
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Kale or spinach, chopped 2 cups
Fresh thyme 1 teaspoon
Bay leaf 1
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (for garnish) chopped

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat; add the onions and garlic and sauté until translucent.
  2. Add carrots, celery, potatoes, and butternut squash, stirring to combine and cooking for 5 minutes.
  3. Pour in the vegetable broth, add thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
  4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 30-40 minutes, until vegetables are tender.
  5. Stir in the kale or spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes until wilted.
  6. Remove the bay leaf, adjust seasoning if necessary, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your Harvest Vegetable Stew!
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Baked Ziti With Sausage

comforting baked ziti dish

Baked Ziti with Sausage is a comforting and hearty casserole that blends perfectly cooked pasta with rich marinara sauce, savory Italian sausage, and a melty cheese topping. This dish is not only indulgent but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings during the chilly fall months.

Ingredients Quantity
Ziti pasta 1 pound
Italian sausage (removed from casings) 1 pound
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion, chopped 1 large
Garlic, minced 3 cloves
Marinara sauce 4 cups
Ricotta cheese 1 cup
Mozzarella cheese, shredded 2 cups
Parmesan cheese, grated ½ cup
Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish) Optional
Salt and pepper To taste

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the ziti pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the sausage and cook until browned.
  4. Stir in the marinara sauce and let simmer for a few minutes.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, sausage mixture, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, top with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  8. Let cool slightly, garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve. Enjoy your Baked Ziti with Sausage!
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White Bean and Kale Casserole

nourishing white bean casserole

White Bean and Kale Casserole is a wholesome and nourishing dish perfect for fall. This warm and hearty casserole combines nutrient-rich white beans, vibrant kale, and a mix of aromatic herbs for a satisfying vegetarian meal that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish.

Ingredients Quantity
White beans (canned or cooked) 2 cans (15 oz each) or 3 cups cooked
Kale, chopped 4 cups
Onion, diced 1 large
Garlic, minced 4 cloves
Vegetable broth 2 cups
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Thyme (dried or fresh) 1 teaspoon
Salt and pepper To taste
Parmesan cheese, grated (optional) ½ cup

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
  3. Add the chopped kale to the skillet and cook until wilted.
  4. Stir in the white beans, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper, and let simmer for about 5 minutes.
  5. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if using.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden on top.
  7. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your White Bean and Kale Casserole!

Cozy Pumpkin Chili

cozy pumpkin chili recipe

Cozy Pumpkin Chili is a warm and comforting dish that embodies the flavors of fall. This hearty chili combines the sweetness of pumpkin with a medley of beans, spices, and vegetables, creating a satisfying and nutritious meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings. It’s easy to prepare and superbly garnished with toppings like avocado or tortilla chips.

Ingredients Quantity
Pumpkin puree 1 can (15 oz)
Black beans (canned) 1 can (15 oz)
Kidney beans (canned) 1 can (15 oz)
Diced tomatoes (canned) 1 can (15 oz)
Onion, diced 1 large
Bell pepper, diced 1 medium
Garlic, minced 3 cloves
Vegetable broth 2 cups
Chili powder 2 tablespoons
Cumin 1 teaspoon
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt and pepper To taste

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened.
  2. Stir in the chili powder and cumin, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the pumpkin puree, black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as avocado, cilantro, or tortilla chips. Enjoy your cozy pumpkin 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.