11 Warm & Spicy Fall Dinner Recipes

cozy autumn dinner ideas

Hearty Pumpkin Chili

pumpkin chili recipe details

Hearty Pumpkin Chili is a comforting and nutritious fall dish that combines the rich flavors of pumpkin with hearty beans, spices, and vegetables. This chili is perfect for warming up on a chilly evening and is a delightful way to celebrate the pumpkin harvest season. It’s not only delicious but also packed with fiber and vitamins, making it a wholesome meal option for the whole family.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion 1 medium, diced
Garlic 3 cloves, minced
Bell pepper 1 medium, diced
Carrot 1 medium, chopped
Canned diced tomatoes 1 can (15 oz)
Pumpkin puree 1 can (15 oz)
Canned black beans 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
Canned kidney beans 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
Vegetable broth 2 cups
Chili powder 2 tablespoons
Cumin 1 tablespoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Optional toppings Sour cream, cilantro, cheese

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic, bell pepper, and carrot. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
  3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, pumpkin puree, black beans, kidney beans, and vegetable broth.
  4. Season with chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
  5. Bring the chili to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.
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Spicy Sausage and Kale Soup

hearty spicy sausage soup

Spicy Sausage and Kale Soup is a robust and flavorful dish perfect for cozy fall evenings. This soup features spicy Italian sausage, tender kale, and hearty vegetables simmered in a delicious broth, creating a warm and satisfying meal that is both comforting and nutritious. Ideal for indulging in autumn’s bounty, this soup is as easy to prepare as it is enjoyable to eat.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Italian sausage 1 pound, casings removed
Onion 1 medium, diced
Garlic 3 cloves, minced
Carrot 1 medium, chopped
Celery 2 stalks, chopped
Vegetable broth 6 cups
Kale 4 cups, chopped
Canned diced tomatoes 1 can (15 oz)
Red pepper flakes 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Optional toppings Grated Parmesan, crusty bread

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and add the sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it up into smaller pieces.
  2. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery, and sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Pour in the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer.
  4. Stir in the chopped kale and let the soup cook for another 10-15 minutes, until the kale is tender and flavorful.
  5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste before serving. Enjoy hot with optional toppings.
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Chipotle Chicken Enchiladas

smoky chicken enchiladas recipe

Chipotle Chicken Enchiladas are a delicious and satisfying dish that combines tender shredded chicken with smoky chipotle peppers and a rich enchilada sauce, all wrapped in soft corn tortillas and topped with melted cheese. Perfect for a fall dinner, these enchiladas provide warmth and comfort, making them a delightful addition to your autumn meal rotation.

Ingredients Quantity
Cooked chicken, shredded 2 cups
Chipotle peppers in adobo 2-3 peppers, minced
Enchilada sauce 2 cups
Corn tortillas 8-10
Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack) 2 cups
Onion 1 medium, diced
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Cumin 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the diced onion until translucent. Stir in the shredded chicken, minced chipotle peppers, cumin, and salt, cooking until everything is heated through.
  3. Spread a little enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
  4. Fill each corn tortilla with the chicken mixture, roll them up, and place them seam-side down in the baking dish.
  5. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy!
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Maple Glazed Root Vegetable Stew

maple root vegetable stew

Maple Glazed Root Vegetable Stew is a hearty and comforting dish that highlights a variety of seasonal root vegetables, enhanced by the sweet and earthy notes of maple syrup. This stew is perfect for fall, providing a warm and nutritious meal that is both satisfying and delicious. With the addition of herbs and spices, it becomes a delightful vegetarian option for chilly evenings.

Ingredients Quantity
Carrots 2 cups, diced
Parsnips 2 cups, diced
Sweet potatoes 2 cups, diced
Onion 1 medium, diced
Garlic 3 cloves, minced
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Maple syrup 1/4 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Thyme (fresh or dried) 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the diced onion and garlic until fragrant.
  2. Add the diced carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes to the pot, stirring to combine.
  3. Pour in the vegetable broth, add maple syrup, thyme, salt, and pepper, and bring to a boil.
  4. Reduce the heat and let the stew simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy your warming autumn stew!
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Curried Butternut Squash Risotto

curried butternut squash risotto

Curried Butternut Squash Risotto is a creamy and flavorful dish that beautifully combines the sweetness of roasted butternut squash with aromatic spices and the richness of Arborio rice. This comforting risotto is perfect for fall evenings, offering a delightful vegetarian option that is both satisfying and packed with flavor.

Ingredients Quantity
Arborio rice 1 cup
Butternut squash 2 cups, diced
Onion 1 medium, diced
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Coconut milk 1 cup
Curry powder 1 tablespoon
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Parmesan cheese (optional) 1/2 cup, grated
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and roast the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper for about 25 minutes until tender.
  2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat, then sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until translucent.
  3. Add the Arborio rice and curry powder, stirring to coat the rice with oil and spices.
  4. Gradually add the vegetable broth, one ladleful at a time, stirring continuously until the liquid is absorbed before adding more.
  5. Once the rice is creamy and al dente (about 20 minutes), stir in the roasted butternut squash and coconut milk, mixing well. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh cilantro, if desired. Enjoy your comforting autumn risotto!
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Smoky Black Bean Tacos

hearty smoky black bean tacos

Smoky Black Bean Tacos are a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for cozy fall nights. Packed with protein and fiber, these tacos feature tender black beans seasoned with smoky spices, layered with fresh toppings, and wrapped in warm tortillas. They make for a quick weeknight dinner or a festive gathering appetizer.

Ingredients Quantity
Canned black beans 2 cans (15 oz each)
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion 1 medium, diced
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Smoked paprika 1 tablespoon
Cumin 1 teaspoon
Lime 1, juiced
Corn tortillas 8-10
Avocado 1, sliced
Fresh cilantro 1/4 cup, chopped
Salsa Optional
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
  2. Add drained black beans, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring until heated through and flavors meld.
  3. Stir in lime juice and remove from heat.
  4. Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
  5. Assemble tacos by spooning the black bean mixture onto each tortilla and adding toppings like avocado, cilantro, and salsa.
  6. Serve immediately and enjoy your smoky, delicious tacos!
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Thai Red Curry Noodle Bowl

thai red curry noodles

Thai Red Curry Noodle Bowl is a comforting and aromatic dish that combines the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine with the satisfying texture of noodles. This easy-to-make bowl features a creamy coconut milk base infused with red curry paste, tossed with noodles, vegetables, and protein of your choice, making it perfect for a cozy fall dinner.

Ingredients Quantity
Rice noodles 8 oz (227 g)
Coconut milk 1 can (13.5 oz)
Thai red curry paste 2-3 tablespoons
Vegetable broth 2 cups
Mixed vegetables (bell pepper, broccoli, carrots) 2 cups, chopped
Tofu or chicken (optional) 1 cup, cubed (or cooked chicken)
Soy sauce 1 tablespoon
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Lime wedges for serving
Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
  2. In a large pot, heat coconut milk and vegetable broth over medium heat. Stir in Thai red curry paste and soy sauce until combined.
  3. Add mixed vegetables and protein (if using) to the pot. Simmer for about 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender.
  4. Stir in the cooked rice noodles, ensuring everything is well-coated in the curry sauce. Season with salt to taste.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. Enjoy your delicious Thai Red Curry Noodle Bowl!
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Cajun Shrimp and Grits

cajun shrimp served with grits

Cajun Shrimp and Grits is a hearty and flavorful dish that celebrates the rich culinary traditions of the southern United States. This dish features succulent shrimp seasoned with Cajun spices, served over a creamy bed of grits, making it perfect for a cozy fall dinner that warms you from the inside out.

Ingredients Quantity
Shrimp, peeled and deveined 1 lb (450 g)
Medium grits 1 cup
Water or chicken broth 4 cups
Cheddar cheese 1 cup, shredded
Heavy cream ½ cup
Cajun seasoning 2 tablespoons
Butter 2 tablespoons
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Green onions, chopped ¼ cup
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil 1 tablespoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a saucepan, bring water or chicken broth to a boil. Stir in the grits, reduce the heat, and cook until thickened (about 15-20 minutes). Stir in cheese, heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper. Keep warm.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add shrimp and season with Cajun seasoning, cooking until pink and opaque (about 3-5 minutes). Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  3. Serve the sautéed shrimp over the creamy grits, garnishing with chopped green onions. Enjoy your delicious Cajun Shrimp and Grits!
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Beef and Sweet Potato Hash

hearty beef and sweet potato

Beef and Sweet Potato Hash is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the savory flavors of ground beef with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes. Perfect for a fall dinner, this one-pan meal is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a satisfying choice for any gathering or family dinner.

Ingredients Quantity
Ground beef 1 lb (450 g)
Sweet potatoes, diced 2 medium
Onion, chopped 1 medium
Bell pepper, diced 1 medium
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Paprika 1 teaspoon
Cumin 1 teaspoon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) ¼ cup

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes until tender.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes).
  3. Stir in the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks, until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Add garlic, paprika, and cumin, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Once the sweet potatoes are done roasting, fold them into the beef mixture and combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy your flavorful Beef and Sweet Potato Hash!
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Stuffed Acorn Squash With Quinoa

stuffed acorn squash recipe

Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa is a delicious and nutritious vegetarian dish that showcases the natural sweetness of acorn squash paired with a savory filling of quinoa, vegetables, and spices. This fall-inspired dish is perfect for a cozy dinner and can serve as a main or side dish that will impress your family and guests alike.

Ingredients Quantity
Acorn squash 2 medium
Quinoa 1 cup (170 g)
Vegetable broth 2 cups (475 ml)
Onion, chopped 1 medium
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Bell pepper, diced 1 medium
Spinach, chopped 2 cups (60 g)
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Cumin 1 teaspoon
Salt and pepper to taste
Feta cheese (optional) ½ cup (75 g) crumbled
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) ¼ cup

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Halve the acorn squash and scoop out the seeds. Brush the insides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place them cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
  2. In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Add quinoa, reduce heat, and simmer covered until the quinoa is cooked (about 15 minutes).
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and bell pepper until softened (about 5 minutes). Stir in garlic, cumin, and spinach until spinach is wilted.
  4. Combine cooked quinoa with the sautéed vegetables. Season with salt and pepper, and mix in feta cheese if using.
  5. Remove squash from the oven and carefully flip them cut-side up. Stuff each half with the quinoa mixture, return to the oven, and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
  6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy your stuffed acorn squash!

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Chicken

balsamic chicken with brussels sprouts

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Chicken is a flavorful and hearty dish that combines tender chicken with caramelized Brussels sprouts, all drizzled with a rich balsamic glaze. This autumn-inspired recipe makes for a perfect one-pan meal that is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor, ideal for cozy fall dinners with family and friends.

Ingredients Quantity
Chicken breasts 4 (about 1.5 lbs)
Brussels sprouts 1 lb (450 g)
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Balsamic vinegar 1/3 cup (80 ml)
Honey 2 tablespoons
Garlic, minced 3 cloves
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh thyme (optional) 2 sprigs

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a small bowl, mix balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper to create the glaze.
  3. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then brown on both sides for about 3-4 minutes each.
  4. Add halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet, pouring the balsamic glaze over the chicken and Brussels sprouts.
  5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and Brussels sprouts are tender.
  6. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Chicken!

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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.