11 Meat-Free Cozy Fall Dinner Recipes

cozy fall meat free dinners

Butternut Squash Risotto

creamy butternut squash risotto

Butternut Squash Risotto is a creamy and comforting dish that perfectly embodies the flavors of the fall season. The sweetness of the butternut squash, combined with the rich flavor of Arborio rice, creates a hearty meal that is both satisfying and entirely meat-free. This risotto is ideal as a main or side dish for a cozy fall dinner.

Ingredients Quantity
Arborio rice 1 ½ cups
Butternut squash 2 cups, diced
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Onion 1 medium, diced
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
White wine ½ cup
Parmesan cheese ½ cup, grated
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh sage 1 tablespoon, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a pot, heat vegetable broth over low heat and keep it warm.
  2. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and add diced onion and garlic. Sauté until translucent.
  3. Add the diced butternut squash and cook for about 5 minutes until slightly softened.
  4. Stir in the Arborio rice and toast for 2-3 minutes, then add the white wine, cooking until it’s mostly absorbed.
  5. Begin adding warm vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently until the liquid is absorbed before adding more.
  6. Once the rice is al dente and creamy (about 18-20 minutes), stir in grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped sage. Enjoy your delectable meat-free fall dish!
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Pumpkin Sage Pasta

pumpkin sage pasta recipe

Pumpkin Sage Pasta is a delightful and seasonal dish that combines the earthy flavors of pumpkin with the aromatic essence of fresh sage. This vegetarian pasta is not only comforting but also showcases the beauty of fall ingredients, making it a perfect choice for a cozy dinner. Rich in flavor and simple to prepare, it’s an ideal main course for meat-free enthusiasts.

Ingredients Quantity
Pasta (fettuccine or penne) 12 ounces
Pumpkin puree 1 cup
Heavy cream ½ cup
Parmesan cheese ½ cup, grated
Fresh sage 2 tablespoons, chopped
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Nutmeg a pinch

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente; reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
  3. Stir in pumpkin puree, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan; mix until well combined.
  4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, along with some reserved pasta water, and toss to coat.
  5. Mix in chopped sage, and season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste.
  6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan and sage if desired. Enjoy your Pumpkin Sage Pasta!
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Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Acorn Squash

creamy mushroom spinach acorn squash

Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Acorn Squash is a hearty and nourishing dish perfect for a fall dinner. The naturally sweet and tender acorn squash serves as a vessel for a rich filling made with sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a creamy blend of cheeses. This dish not only celebrates the flavors of the season but also provides a warm, comforting meal that is entirely meat-free.

Ingredients Quantity
Acorn squash 2 medium
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Mushrooms (button or cremini) 8 ounces, chopped
Fresh spinach 4 cups, chopped
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Cream cheese 4 ounces
Parmesan cheese ½ cup, grated
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Nutmeg a pinch

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and cut the acorn squash in half, removing seeds. Brush the insides with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and place cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for about 30-35 minutes, or until tender.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add chopped mushrooms, and sauté until browned. Add garlic and spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts.
  3. Mix in cream cheese and half of the grated Parmesan, stirring until creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste.
  4. Remove the roasted squash from the oven and turn it cut-side up. Spoon the mushroom and spinach mixture into each squash half, topping with the remaining Parmesan.
  5. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve warm and enjoy your Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Acorn Squash!
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Root Vegetable Stew

hearty root vegetable stew

Root Vegetable Stew is a warm, hearty meal that captures the essence of fall with its rich flavors and comforting textures. This delightful stew is packed with a variety of root vegetables, beans, and warming spices, making it a wholesome, meat-free option suitable for any dinner. Perfect for a chilly evening, the stew embodies the spirit of the season while providing abundant nutrients.

Ingredients Quantity
Carrots 2 medium, diced
Potatoes 2 medium, diced
Sweet potatoes 1 large, diced
Parsnips 1 large, diced
Onion 1 large, chopped
Garlic 3 cloves, minced
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Canned diced tomatoes 1 can (14.5 oz)
Canned chickpeas 1 can (15 oz), drained
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Thyme 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Bay leaves 2 leaves

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat, then sauté onions and garlic until translucent.
  2. Add diced root vegetables (carrots, potatoes, sweet potatoes, and parsnips) to the pot, stirring for a few minutes.
  3. Pour in the vegetable broth and canned tomatoes, and add thyme, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
  4. Cover and let it cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
  5. Stir in the chickpeas and heat through for an additional 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your comforting Root Vegetable Stew!
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Sweet Potato and Black Bean Enchiladas

sweet potato black bean enchiladas

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Enchiladas offer a flavorful, meat-free twist on a classic Mexican dish. These enchiladas are filled with a delectable mixture of sweet potatoes, black beans, and warm spices, all wrapped in corn tortillas and topped with a zesty enchilada sauce and cheese. They make for a delightful and satisfying dinner option, perfect for a cozy fall evening.

Ingredients Quantity
Corn tortillas 8
Sweet potatoes 2 medium, peeled and diced
Black beans 1 can (15 oz), drained
Onion 1 small, chopped
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Enchilada sauce 2 cups
Cumin 1 teaspoon
Chili powder 1 teaspoon
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend) 1 cup, shredded
Salt to taste
Cilantro (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, then sauté onions and garlic until softened.
  3. Add diced sweet potatoes, cumin, chili powder, and salt, cooking for about 10-12 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender. Stir in black beans.
  4. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
  5. Fill each tortilla with the sweet potato and black bean mixture, roll them up, and place them seam-side down in the baking dish.
  6. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top, sprinkle with cheese, and bake for 20-25 minutes.
  7. Garnish with cilantro if desired before serving. Enjoy your delicious Sweet Potato and Black Bean Enchiladas!
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Harvest Grain Bowl With Maple Vinaigrette

autumn inspired nourishing grain bowl

Harvest Grain Bowl With Maple Vinaigrette is a vibrant, nourishing dish that celebrates the bounty of fall produce. This hearty grain bowl combines wholesome grains, roasted seasonal vegetables, and a sweet and tangy maple vinaigrette, creating a satisfying meal that is both filling and nutritious. Perfect for a cozy dinner, it brings together a variety of textures and flavors that embody the essence of autumn.

Ingredients Quantity
Quinoa or farro 1 cup
Vegetable broth 2 cups
Sweet potatoes 1 medium, diced
Brussels sprouts 1 cup, halved
Kale or spinach 2 cups, chopped
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Maple syrup 2 tablespoons
Apple cider vinegar 1 tablespoon
Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Pumpkin seeds ¼ cup, toasted
Dried cranberries (optional) ¼ cup
Fresh herbs (parsley or thyme) for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Cook quinoa or farro in vegetable broth according to package instructions.
  3. Toss diced sweet potatoes and halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast on a baking sheet for 20-25 minutes until tender and caramelized.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create the vinaigrette.
  5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked grains, roasted vegetables, and chopped kale or spinach. Drizzle with the maple vinaigrette and toss to coat.
  6. Serve topped with toasted pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, and fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your delicious Harvest Grain Bowl With Maple Vinaigrette!
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Lentil and Vegetable Shepherd’s Pie

comforting lentil shepherd s pie

Lentil and Vegetable Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for cool fall evenings. This meat-free version features a savory filling of lentils, vegetables, and aromatic herbs, all topped with a creamy mashed potato layer that gets perfectly golden in the oven. It’s an ideal choice for cozy dinners, delivering warmth and nourishment in every bite.

Ingredients Quantity
Brown or green lentils 1 cup (uncooked)
Vegetable broth 3 cups
Carrots 2, diced
Celery 2, diced
Onion 1, chopped
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Peas 1 cup
Tomato paste 2 tablespoons
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Dried thyme 1 teaspoon
Dried rosemary 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Potatoes 4 medium, peeled and cubed
Milk or plant-based milk ½ cup
Butter or vegan butter 2 tablespoons
Fresh parsley (optional) for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Cook lentils in vegetable broth until tender, about 20-25 minutes, then drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened. Stir in peas, cooked lentils, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few more minutes until everything is well combined.
  4. Boil potatoes in salted water until tender, then drain and mash with milk and butter until creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Spread the lentil and vegetable mixture in a baking dish, then top with the mashed potatoes, smoothing it over the filling.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden and slightly crispy. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm. Enjoy your hearty Lentil and Vegetable Shepherd’s Pie!
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Cauliflower and Chickpea Curry

cauliflower chickpea coconut curry

Cauliflower and Chickpea Curry is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Rich in spices and packed with nutrients, this meat-free curry combines tender cauliflower and hearty chickpeas in a creamy coconut sauce, making it an excellent choice for a cozy fall dinner.

Ingredients Quantity
Cauliflower florets 1 medium head
Canned chickpeas 1 can (15 oz)
Coconut milk 1 can (14 oz)
Onion 1, chopped
Garlic 3 cloves, minced
Ginger 1 tablespoon, minced
Curry powder 2 tablespoons
Cumin 1 teaspoon
Turmeric 1 teaspoon
Vegetable broth 1 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Spinach 2 cups (fresh)
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro (optional) for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant and softened.
  2. Stir in curry powder, cumin, and turmeric, cooking for another minute to release the spices’ aromas.
  3. Add cauliflower florets and chickpeas to the skillet, stirring to coat with the spices. Pour in vegetable broth and coconut milk, bringing it to a gentle simmer.
  4. Cook uncovered for about 15-20 minutes until the cauliflower is tender. Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your delicious Cauliflower and Chickpea Curry!
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Spinach and Feta Stuffed Peppers

spinach and feta delight

Spinach and Feta Stuffed Peppers are a delightful and nutritious meat-free dish that showcases the abundant flavors of fall. These vibrant bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of fresh spinach, creamy feta cheese, and aromatic herbs, all baked to perfection. This dish not only looks appealing but also provides a hearty meal that is perfect for a cozy autumn dinner.

Ingredients Quantity
Bell peppers 4 large (any color)
Fresh spinach 4 cups
Feta cheese 1 cup, crumbled
Cooked quinoa or rice 1 cup
Onion 1, chopped
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare the bell peppers by cutting the tops off and removing the seeds.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed mixture with cooked quinoa (or rice), crumbled feta, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  4. Stuff each bell pepper with the spinach and feta mixture, then place them upright in a baking dish.
  5. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the peppers are tender and the tops are slightly golden. Serve warm!
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Zucchini Noodle Soup

zucchini noodle soup recipe

Zucchini Noodle Soup is a light and comforting meat-free dish that perfectly captures the essence of fall. This soup features spiralized zucchini as a delightful substitute for traditional noodles, making it a healthy and satisfying option. With a flavorful broth enriched with seasonal vegetables, herbs, and spices, it’s an ideal dish for a cozy autumn evening.

Ingredients Quantity
Zucchini 4 medium
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Carrots 2, sliced
Celery 2 stalks, chopped
Onion 1, chopped
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (for garnish) ¼ cup, chopped

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Spiralize the zucchini into noodle-like strands and set aside.
  2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.
  3. Add carrots and celery, cooking until they start to soften.
  4. Pour in the vegetable broth and add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; bring to a simmer.
  5. Stir in the zucchini noodles and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until just tender.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley!

Apple and Walnut Quinoa Salad

nutritious autumn quinoa salad

Apple and Walnut Quinoa Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that beautifully showcases the flavors of fall. Packed with crunchy apples, toasted walnuts, and protein-rich quinoa, this salad is not only satisfying but also makes for a revitalizing addition to any meat-free dinner. Tossed in a light vinaigrette, it’s perfect for a cozy autumn gathering or a hearty lunch.

Ingredients Quantity
Quinoa 1 cup
Water 2 cups
Apples (diced) 2 medium
Walnuts (chopped) ½ cup
Dried cranberries ½ cup
Spinach or kale (chopped) 2 cups
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons
Honey or maple syrup 1 tablespoon
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Rinse quinoa under cold water and combine with water in a pot; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until fluffy.
  2. While the quinoa cooks, toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant.
  3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, diced apples, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, and chopped spinach or kale.
  4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
  5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  6. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to enhance flavors. Enjoy!

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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.