11 Hidden Veggie Fall Dinners for Picky Eaters

hidden veggie dinners recipe

Cheesy Vegetable Lasagna

cheesy vegetable lasagna recipe

Cheesy Vegetable Lasagna is a comforting and flavorful dish that perfectly captures the essence of fall. Packed with layers of hearty vegetables, creamy cheese, and rich tomato sauce, this recipe is an excellent way to incorporate hidden veggies into your family’s dinner while satisfying everyone’s cravings.

Ingredients Quantity
Lasagna noodles 12 sheets
Spinach 4 cups
Zucchini 1 medium
Mushrooms 1 cup, sliced
Bell pepper 1 medium
Ricotta cheese 15 oz
Mozzarella cheese 2 cups, shredded
Parmesan cheese ½ cup, grated
Marinara sauce 3 cups
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, then add the zucchini, mushrooms, and bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in spinach until wilted. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Layer 4 lasagna noodles, followed by half of the ricotta, half of the vegetable mixture, a third of the mozzarella, and a layer of marinara sauce. Repeat this process, ending with noodles topped with marinara sauce and the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  4. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
  5. Allow to cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your cheesy vegetable lasagna!
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Pumpkin and Spinach Stuffed Shells

pumpkin spinach pasta shells

Pumpkin and Spinach Stuffed Shells are a delightful and nutritious fall dish that combines the warm flavors of pumpkin with the mild earthiness of spinach. This hearty recipe showcases large pasta shells filled with a creamy pumpkin and ricotta mixture, all topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. It’s a fantastic way to incorporate seasonal produce and hidden veggies into a family-friendly meal.

Ingredients Quantity
Jumbo pasta shells 20 shells
Pumpkin puree 1 cup
Ricotta cheese 15 oz
Spinach 2 cups, chopped
Mozzarella cheese 2 cups, shredded
Parmesan cheese ½ cup, grated
Marinara sauce 2 cups
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Nutmeg ¼ teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Olive oil 1 tablespoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a bowl, mix together pumpkin puree, ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, garlic, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  3. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the pumpkin and spinach mixture and place them in a greased baking dish.
  4. Spread marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, then top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
  5. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  6. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving, and enjoy your delicious Pumpkin and Spinach Stuffed Shells!
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Sweet Potato and Black Bean Enchiladas

sweet potato black bean enchiladas

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Enchiladas are a tasty and healthy twist on a classic Mexican dish. These enchiladas feature sweet potatoes mashed with black beans and spices, all rolled in soft tortillas and smothered in a rich enchilada sauce. This vibrant dinner option is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins, making it an excellent way to sneak in some extra veggies.

Ingredients Quantity
Sweet potatoes 2 medium, peeled and cubed
Black beans (canned) 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
Corn tortillas 8-10 tortillas
Enchilada sauce 2 cups
Onion 1 small, chopped
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Cumin 1 teaspoon
Chili powder 1 teaspoon
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Salt to taste
Cilantro (for garnish) Fresh, chopped (optional)

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, then sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
  3. Add in the cubed sweet potatoes, cumin, chili powder, and a pinch of salt; cook until the sweet potatoes are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
  4. Stir in the black beans and blend everything together; mash slightly to combine.
  5. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Spoon the sweet potato and black bean mixture onto each tortilla, roll them up, and place them seam-side down in the baking dish.
  6. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
  7. Optional: Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy your flavorful Sweet Potato and Black Bean Enchiladas!
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Hidden Veggie Meatballs in Marinara

nutritious meatballs with vegetables

Hidden Veggie Meatballs in Marinara are a delightful and nutritious way to enjoy a classic Italian dish while sneaking in some extra veggies. These meatballs are made with a combination of ground meat, hidden vegetables, and spices, all simmered in a rich marinara sauce. Perfectly paired with your choice of pasta, they create a satisfying and wholesome meal for the whole family.

Ingredients Quantity
Ground beef or turkey 1 lb (450 g)
Zucchini 1 medium, grated
Carrot 1 medium, grated
Onion 1 small, finely chopped
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Breadcrumbs 1/2 cup
Parmesan cheese 1/4 cup, grated
Egg 1 large
Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Marinara sauce 2 cups
Fresh basil (for garnish) Chopped (optional)

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, grated zucchini, grated carrot, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper; mix until well combined.
  3. Shape the mixture into meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. Bake for 20 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
  5. While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium heat.
  6. Once the meatballs are done, add them to the marinara sauce and simmer for 5-10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  7. Serve over your favorite pasta and garnish with fresh basil, if desired. Enjoy your Hidden Veggie Meatballs in Marinara!
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Creamy Butternut Squash Soup

creamy fall vegetable soup

Creamy Butternut Squash Soup is a comforting and nourishing fall dish that perfectly highlights the natural sweetness of butternut squash. This velvety soup is not only easy to make but is also packed with hidden vegetables like carrots and onions, making it a delicious way to incorporate more nutrients into your diet. Perfect served warm with a slice of crusty bread, it’s an ideal meal for chilly autumn evenings.

Ingredients Quantity
Butternut squash 1 medium, peeled and diced
Carrots 2 medium, peeled and chopped
Onion 1 small, chopped
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Coconut milk 1 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon (optional)
Fresh parsley (for garnish) Chopped (optional)

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion and garlic until translucent.
  2. Add the diced butternut squash, chopped carrots, and vegetable broth to the pot; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the vegetables are tender (about 20 minutes).
  3. Remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
  4. Stir in the coconut milk, salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg, and mix until well combined.
  5. Heat through if necessary, and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your creamy and nutritious Butternut Squash Soup!
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Cauliflower and Chicken Alfredo Bake

creamy chicken cauliflower bake

Cauliflower and Chicken Alfredo Bake is a hearty, comforting dish that merges tender chicken and cauliflower with a creamy Alfredo sauce, perfect for chilly fall evenings. This bake not only satisfies with its rich flavors but also sneaks in nutritious vegetables, making it a wholesome option for family dinners.

Ingredients Quantity
Cauliflower florets 4 cups
Cooked chicken breast 2 cups, shredded
Fettuccine pasta 8 ounces
Alfredo sauce 2 cups
Mozzarella cheese 1 cup, shredded
Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup, grated
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon (optional)

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
  2. Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Add cauliflower florets and cook until slightly tender.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed cauliflower, shredded chicken, and Alfredo sauce; season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  7. Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your comforting Cauliflower and Chicken Alfredo Bake!
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Zucchini and Corn Fritters

crispy zucchini corn fritters

Zucchini and Corn Fritters are a delightful way to incorporate vegetables into your fall meals. These scrumptious fritters are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, blending the subtle sweetness of corn with the mildness of zucchini. They’re perfect as a side dish, a light lunch, or a fun appetizer that the whole family will enjoy, bringing warmth and comfort during cool autumn days.

Ingredients Quantity
Zucchini 2 medium, grated
Fresh corn kernels 1 cup
All-purpose flour 1/2 cup
Eggs 2, beaten
Green onions 1/4 cup, chopped
Parmesan cheese 1/4 cup, grated
Baking powder 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Olive oil for frying

Cooking Steps:

  1. Place grated zucchini in a clean towel and squeeze out excess moisture.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, corn, flour, beaten eggs, green onions, Parmesan cheese, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  4. Drop spoonfuls of the zucchini mixture into the hot oil, flattening them slightly to form fritters.
  5. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
  6. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Zucchini and Corn Fritters!
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Apple and Carrot Muffins

apple carrot muffin recipe

Apple and Carrot Muffins are a delightful blend of sweetness and healthiness, perfect for a cozy fall breakfast or snack. These moist and flavorful muffins use fresh apples and carrots, hidden within a soft, spiced batter that will have your family coming back for seconds. They make for a nutritious start to your day and are an excellent way to sneak in some veggies!

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 1 ½ cups
Baking powder 1 teaspoon
Baking soda ½ teaspoon
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Salt ¼ teaspoon
Sugar ¾ cup
Brown sugar ¼ cup
Eggs 2, beaten
Vegetable oil ⅓ cup
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Grated apples 1 cup
Grated carrots 1 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
  2. In a bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together sugar, brown sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
  4. Add the grated apples and carrots to the wet mixture and stir well.
  5. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
  6. Spoon the batter into the muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full.
  7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  8. Allow the muffins to cool before serving. Enjoy your Apple and Carrot Muffins!
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Beetroot Chocolate Brownies

beetroot infused chocolate brownies

Beetroot Chocolate Brownies are a luscious and decadent dessert that will surprise you with their rich flavor and vibrant color, all while packing a hidden veggie punch. These fudgy brownies use cooked beetroot, which not only amplifies the chocolate taste but also adds moisture to the batter, making them irresistibly soft and chewy. Perfect for an indulgent fall treat or a guilt-free dessert, these brownies will have your family and friends guessing the secret ingredient!

Ingredients Quantity
Cooked beetroot, pureed 1 cup
All-purpose flour ½ cup
Unsweetened cocoa powder ½ cup
Baking powder ½ teaspoon
Salt ¼ teaspoon
Sugar ¾ cup
Brown sugar ¼ cup
Eggs 2, beaten
Vegetable oil ⅓ cup
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Dark chocolate chips ½ cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a square baking pan.
  2. In a bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, mix together the pureed beetroot, sugar, brown sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla until well combined.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Fold in the dark chocolate chips.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Allow the brownies to cool before slicing and serving. Enjoy your Beetroot Chocolate Brownies!
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Silky Vegetable Risotto

creamy vegetable filled risotto

Silky Vegetable Risotto is a comforting and creamy dish that showcases seasonal vegetables while being both satisfying and nutritious. This rich and velvety risotto is a perfect way to warm up during fall, and it’s a great opportunity to sneak in some hidden veggies like zucchini, carrots, and peas. With its luscious texture and vibrant flavor, this dish will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients Quantity
Arborio rice 1 cup
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion, finely chopped 1 medium
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Zucchini, diced 1 medium
Carrots, diced 1 medium
Peas (fresh or frozen) ½ cup
Parmesan cheese, grated ½ cup
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. Heat the vegetable broth in a saucepan and keep it warm over low heat.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion until translucent.
  3. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted.
  5. Gradually add the warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently until the liquid is absorbed. Continue this process until the rice is creamy and al dente, about 18-20 minutes.
  6. Stir in the diced zucchini, carrots, and peas, cooking until just tender.
  7. Mix in the Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your Silky Vegetable Risotto!

Spinach and Cheese Quesadillas

spinach and cheese quesadillas

Spinach and Cheese Quesadillas are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines melty cheese with the goodness of spinach, making it a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun lunch. Packed with flavor and hidden veggies, these quesadillas are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, perfect for serving with salsa or guacamole.

Ingredients Quantity
Flour tortillas 4 large
Fresh spinach, chopped 2 cups
Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack) 1 ½ cups
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion, finely chopped 1 small
Garlic, minced 1 clove
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the onion until soft.
  2. Add garlic and chopped spinach, cooking until the spinach is wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. On one half of each tortilla, sprinkle a layer of cheese, then add the spinach mixture, and top with more cheese.
  4. Fold the tortillas in half and cook in the skillet until golden brown and cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
  5. Remove from the skillet, slice into wedges, and serve warm with salsa or guacamole. Enjoy your Spinach and Cheese Quesadillas!

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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.