11 Make Once, Eat Twice Fall Dinners

make ahead dinner recipes

Hearty Pumpkin Chili

hearty pumpkin chili recipe

Hearty Pumpkin Chili is the perfect comfort food for autumn evenings, combining the rich flavors of chili with the warm, earthy sweetness of pumpkin. This dish is not only hearty and filling but also packed with nutrients, making it a great option for a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. With a blend of spices, beans, and pumpkin, this chili is sure to become a fall favorite!

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion 1 medium, diced
Garlic 3 cloves, minced
Bell pepper 1, diced
Ground cumin 1 tablespoon
Chili powder 2 tablespoons
Smoked paprika 1 teaspoon
Canned diced tomatoes 1 can (14.5 oz)
Canned pumpkin 1 can (15 oz)
Vegetable broth 2 cups
Black beans 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
Kidney beans 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste
Fresh cilantro (optional) For garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until softened.
  2. Stir in minced garlic and bell pepper, cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  4. Pour in diced tomatoes, canned pumpkin, and vegetable broth; stir to combine.
  5. Add black beans and kidney beans, seasoning with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
  6. Reduce heat and let the chili simmer for 20-30 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy your Hearty Pumpkin Chili!
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Savory Butternut Squash Risotto

creamy butternut squash risotto

Savory Butternut Squash Risotto is a creamy and comforting dish that embodies the essence of fall. With the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash and a rich, creamy texture, this risotto is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a sophisticated gathering. The combination of arborio rice, broth, and Parmesan adds depth and richness, making it a delightful addition to your autumn dining repertoire.

Ingredients Quantity
Arborio rice 1 cup
Butternut squash, peeled and cubed 2 cups
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Onion, diced 1 medium
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
White wine 1/2 cup
Parmesan cheese, grated 1/2 cup
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste
Fresh sage, chopped (optional) For garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast until tender, about 25-30 minutes.
  2. In a pot, heat vegetable broth and keep it warm on a low simmer.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion until translucent. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
  4. Stir in arborio rice, coating it with the oil, and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly translucent.
  5. Pour in white wine and stir until absorbed. Gradually add warm vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently until the rice is creamy and al dente.
  6. Fold in roasted butternut squash and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh sage if desired. Enjoy your Savory Butternut Squash Risotto!
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Comforting Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole

hearty chicken rice casserole

Comforting Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole is a warm and hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly fall evenings. Combining tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and seasonal vegetables in a creamy sauce, this casserole is a delightful one-dish meal that your family will love. It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Ingredients Quantity
Cooked chicken, shredded 2 cups
Wild rice blend 1 cup
Chicken broth 3 cups
Onion, diced 1 medium
Celery, diced 1 stalk
Carrots, diced 1 medium
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Cream of mushroom soup 1 can (10.5 oz)
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste
Thyme, dried or fresh 1 teaspoon
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) For garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion, celery, and carrots until soft. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  3. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, wild rice, cooked vegetables, chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  4. Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish and spread it evenly.
  5. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until heated through and slightly bubbly.
  6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your Comforting Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole!
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Flavorful Beef Stroganoff

creamy beef stroganoff recipe

Flavorful Beef Stroganoff is a classic comfort food that showcases tender strips of beef simmered in a rich and creamy mushroom sauce, served over egg noodles or rice. This dish is a warm hug on a plate, perfect for cozy fall dinners when you crave something hearty and satisfying.

Ingredients Quantity
Beef sirloin or tenderloin, sliced 1 pound
Mushrooms, sliced 8 ounces
Onion, thinly sliced 1 medium
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Beef broth 1 cup
Sour cream 1 cup
Flour 2 tablespoons
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste
Paprika 1 teaspoon
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) For garnish
Egg noodles or rice For serving

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced beef and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add onions and mushrooms. Sauté until softened, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  3. Sprinkle flour over the mushroom mixture and stir for about a minute to cook the flour.
  4. Gradually add beef broth, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Return beef to the skillet and mix well.
  5. Reduce to low heat, stir in sour cream and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat through without boiling.
  6. Serve over cooked egg noodles or rice, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your Flavorful Beef Stroganoff!
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Cozy Vegetable Shepherd’s Pie

hearty vegetarian comfort dish

Cozy Vegetable Shepherd’s Pie is a hearty and comforting dish that layers a savory vegetable filling with a creamy mashed potato topping. This vegetarian twist on the classic shepherd’s pie makes it perfect for fall dinners, providing warmth and satisfaction with each bite.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion, diced 1 medium
Carrot, diced 1 large
Celery, diced 2 stalks
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Mushrooms, chopped 8 ounces
Frozen peas 1 cup
Vegetable broth 1 cup
Tomato paste 2 tablespoons
Dried thyme 1 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste
Potatoes, peeled and cubed 2 pounds
Butter 4 tablespoons
Milk 1/2 cup
Cheese, shredded (optional) 1/2 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened, then add garlic and mushrooms, cooking until mushrooms are tender.
  3. Stir in frozen peas, vegetable broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, then transfer to a baking dish.
  4. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, then drain. Mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  5. Spread the mashed potatoes over the vegetable mixture in the baking dish. Top with cheese if desired.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and slightly crispy. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Cozy Vegetable Shepherd’s Pie!
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Rich Mushroom and Spinach Pasta

creamy mushroom spinach pasta

Rich Mushroom and Spinach Pasta is a delicious and satisfying dish that perfectly embodies the warm flavors of fall. This creamy pasta features earthy mushrooms and fresh spinach, combined with a rich garlic sauce, making it a comforting meal perfect for chilly evenings.

Ingredients Quantity
Pasta (fettuccine or penne) 12 ounces
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Garlic, minced 3 cloves
Mushrooms, sliced 8 ounces
Fresh spinach 4 cups
Heavy cream 1 cup
Parmesan cheese, grated 1/2 cup
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) For garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are tender and browned.
  4. Add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, then pour in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
  5. Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce, ensuring everything is well-coated.
  6. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your Rich Mushroom and Spinach Pasta!
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Classic Beef Stew

hearty comfort food stew

Classic Beef Stew is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for cozy fall dinners. This hearty dish is packed with tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs, all simmered together to create a rich and flavorful stew that warms you from the inside out.

Ingredients Quantity
Beef chuck, cut into cubes 2 pounds
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion, chopped 1 medium
Carrots, sliced 3 large
Potatoes, diced 2 large
Garlic, minced 3 cloves
Beef broth 4 cups
Tomato paste 2 tablespoons
Worcestershire sauce 1 tablespoon
Dried thyme 1 teaspoon
Bay leaves 2
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) For garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and brown the beef cubes in batches. Remove the beef and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, add chopped onion and cook until softened, then stir in garlic, carrots, and potatoes.
  3. Return the beef to the pot and add beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
  4. Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is tender.
  5. Remove bay leaves, adjust seasoning as needed, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your Classic Beef Stew!
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Luscious Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

nutritious vegetarian taco recipe

Luscious Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos are a delightful and nutritious option for fall dinners, combining the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the heartiness of black beans. These vegetarian tacos are not only colorful and flavorful but also packed with fiber and vitamins, making them a wholesome meal that’s easy to prepare.

Ingredients Quantity
Sweet potatoes, peeled and diced 2 medium
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Cumin 1 teaspoon
Chili powder 1 teaspoon
Black beans, drained and rinsed 1 can (15 oz)
Corn kernels (fresh or frozen) 1 cup
Tortillas (corn or flour) 8
Avocado, sliced 1
Fresh cilantro, chopped For garnish
Lime wedges For serving
Salt and pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper, and spread them on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
  2. In a skillet, heat the black beans and corn over medium heat, seasoning with salt and pepper.
  3. Warm the tortillas in a pan or microwave.
  4. Assemble the tacos by placing roasted sweet potatoes, black bean mixture, and avocado slices on each tortilla.
  5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges. Enjoy your Luscious Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos!
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Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

creamy tomato basil soup

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for chilly fall evenings. This rich and velvety soup is made with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a touch of cream, delivering a burst of flavor with every spoonful. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s ideal for lunch or dinner, especially when paired with a crusty bread for dipping.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion, chopped 1 medium
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Canned whole tomatoes 2 cans (14.5 oz each)
Vegetable broth 2 cups
Fresh basil leaves 1 cup, chopped
Heavy cream 1/2 cup
Salt and pepper To taste
Crusty bread (for serving) Optional

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  2. Pour in the canned tomatoes and vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  3. Stir in the chopped basil and blend the soup until smooth, either using an immersion blender or in batches with a regular blender.
  4. Return the soup to low heat and mix in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Serve hot, drizzled with additional cream if desired, and enjoy with crusty bread!
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Delicious Stuffed Bell Peppers

savory stuffed bell peppers

Delicious Stuffed Bell Peppers are a wholesome and satisfying meal perfect for fall dining. These colorful, vibrant peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground meat (or a vegetarian alternative), rice, spices, and vegetables, then baked until tender. Served hot from the oven, they make a beautiful presentation and are ideal for family gatherings or cozy dinners.

Ingredients Quantity
Bell peppers (any color) 4 large
Ground beef (or turkey) 1 pound
Cooked rice 1 cup
Onion, chopped 1 medium
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Diced tomatoes (canned) 1 can (14.5 oz)
Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon
Salt and pepper To taste
Shredded cheese (optional) 1 cup
Fresh parsley (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish, cut side up.
  3. In a skillet, cook the ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic until the meat is browned. Drain excess fat.
  4. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until combined.
  5. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat and rice mixture and top with shredded cheese if desired.
  6. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the peppers are tender.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious stuffed bell peppers!

Warm Quinoa and Roasted Vegetable Bowl

nutritious quinoa vegetable bowl

Warm Quinoa and Roasted Vegetable Bowl is a hearty and nutritious dish that perfectly embodies the flavors of fall. This versatile meal features fluffy quinoa combined with an assortment of roasted seasonal vegetables, all tossed together and seasoned with a delightful dressing. It serves as a nourishing main dish or a delightful side, making it an excellent addition to any fall dinner table.

Ingredients Quantity
Quinoa 1 cup
Vegetable broth (or water) 2 cups
Zucchini, diced 1 medium
Bell pepper, chopped 1 medium
Carrots, diced 2 medium
Red onion, chopped 1 medium
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Garlic powder 1 teaspoon
Paprika 1 teaspoon
Salt and pepper To taste
Fresh parsley, chopped For garnish
Lemon juice 2 tablespoons

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Rinse the quinoa under cold water, then cook it according to package instructions using vegetable broth for added flavor.
  3. On a baking sheet, toss zucchini, bell pepper, carrots, and red onion with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them out evenly.
  4. Roast the vegetables in the oven for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
  5. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa and roasted vegetables. Drizzle with lemon juice and toss gently.
  6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy your Warm Quinoa and Roasted Vegetable Bowl!

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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.