11 Weekend Fall Dinner Recipes for Relaxing

relaxing fall dinner ideas

Hearty Pumpkin Soup

creamy and flavorful soup

Hearty Pumpkin Soup is a warm and comforting dish perfect for cozy fall dinners. This creamy and flavorful soup combines the natural sweetness of pumpkin with aromatic spices, making it a nourishing option that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. It’s ideal for gathering with family or friends around the table, offering a taste of the season in every spoonful.

Ingredients Quantity
Pumpkin (fresh or canned) 4 cups
Onion 1, chopped
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Coconut milk 1 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Ground cumin 1 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (for garnish) Optional
  1. In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened (about 5 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  2. Stir in the pumpkin, vegetable broth, cumin, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat and blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or by transferring to a blender.
  4. Stir in coconut milk and reheat gently, adjusting seasoning as necessary.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your hearty pumpkin soup!
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Savory Apple and Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash

savory stuffed acorn squash

Savory Apple and Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash is a delightful fall dish that perfectly marries the sweetness of baked acorn squash with savory flavors of sausage and fresh apples. This dish not only looks stunning when served but also offers a comforting and hearty meal that’s great for family gatherings or cozy dinners with friends.

Ingredients Quantity
Acorn squash 2 medium
Breakfast sausage (bulk) 1 pound
Apple (preferably Granny Smith) 1, diced
Onion 1, chopped
Celery 1 stalk, chopped
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Dried thyme 1 teaspoon
Dried sage 1 teaspoon
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Pecans (chopped) 1/2 cup
Grated Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Cut the acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Brush the insides lightly with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and place cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
  3. While the squash is roasting, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and minced garlic, sautéing until softened.
  4. Add the sausage to the pan and cook until browned. Stir in diced apple, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper; cook until the apples are just tender.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in chopped pecans and Parmesan cheese.
  6. Once the squash is done, carefully turn it over and fill each half with the sausage-apple mixture.
  7. Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until heated through.
  8. Serve warm and enjoy your savory stuffed acorn squash!
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Creamy Mushroom Risotto

creamy mushroom risotto recipe

Creamy Mushroom Risotto is a comforting Italian dish that highlights the rich flavors of mushrooms combined with creamy Arborio rice. This delightful meal is perfect for a weekend dinner, offering warmth and satisfaction with every bite. Its creamy texture and earthy notes make it an ideal choice for fall evenings, bringing a touch of elegance to your dinner table.

Ingredients Quantity
Arborio rice 1 cup
Chicken or vegetable broth 4 cups
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Butter 2 tablespoons
Onion 1 medium, chopped
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Mushrooms (cremini or button) 8 oz, sliced
Dry white wine 1/2 cup
Grated Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup
Fresh parsley 2 tablespoons, chopped
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
  1. In a saucepan, heat the broth and let it simmer over low heat.
  2. In a large pan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent.
  3. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until lightly browned.
  4. Add the Arborio rice to the pan, stirring for a minute until the rice is well-coated.
  5. Pour in the white wine and let it absorb completely.
  6. Gradually add the warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently, allowing the liquid to be absorbed before adding more.
  7. Continue this process until the rice is creamy and al dente (about 18-20 minutes).
  8. Stir in the grated Parmesan, fresh parsley, salt, and black pepper to taste.
  9. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy mushroom risotto!
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Classic Beef Stew With Root Vegetables

hearty classic beef stew

Classic Beef Stew With Root Vegetables is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for warming up on a cool fall evening. This comforting stew combines tender chunks of beef with a medley of root vegetables, creating a rich and savory meal that is sure to please any palate. It’s a classic recipe that allows for variations, making it a versatile choice for cozy weekend dinners.

Ingredients Quantity
Beef chuck, cut into cubes 2 lbs
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion, chopped 1 medium
Garlic, minced 3 cloves
Carrots, sliced 3 medium
Potatoes, diced 2 medium
Parsnips, sliced 2 medium
Celery, chopped 2 stalks
Beef broth 4 cups
Tomato paste 2 tablespoons
Bay leaves 2
Thyme (dried) 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Optional
  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat; brown the beef cubes on all sides, then remove and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
  3. Stir in the carrots, potatoes, parsnips, and celery, cooking until slightly softened.
  4. Add the browned beef back to the pot, then stir in beef broth, tomato paste, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the beef is tender.
  6. Adjust seasoning if necessary, remove bay leaves, and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your classic beef stew with root vegetables!
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Spicy Butternut Squash Chili

spicy vegetarian butternut squash chili

Spicy Butternut Squash Chili is a delightful twist on traditional chili that offers warmth and comfort, making it an ideal dish for fall dining. This vegetarian chili combines the sweetness of roasted butternut squash with a kick of spice from peppers and spices, along with hearty beans, creating a satisfying and nutritious meal that can be enjoyed on its own or with cornbread.

Ingredients Quantity
Butternut squash, cubed 4 cups
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion, chopped 1 medium
Garlic, minced 4 cloves
Bell peppers (mixed colors), chopped 2
Jalapeño pepper, minced 1
Canned diced tomatoes 28 oz can
Canned black beans, drained 1 can (15 oz)
Canned kidney beans, drained 1 can (15 oz)
Vegetable broth 3 cups
Chili powder 2 tablespoons
Cumin 1 teaspoon
Smoked paprika 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) Optional
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and roast the butternut squash until tender.
  2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat; sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.
  3. Add bell peppers and jalapeño, cooking until softened.
  4. Stir in roasted butternut squash, diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Adjust seasoning as needed, serve hot, and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy your spicy butternut squash chili!
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Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Bacon

maple brussels sprouts with bacon

Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Bacon is a flavorful side dish that perfectly blends the earthy taste of Brussels sprouts with the sweetness of maple syrup and the savory crunch of bacon. This dish embodies the hearty flavors of fall and makes for an excellent complement to any autumn meal.

Ingredients Quantity
Brussels sprouts, trimmed 1 lb (450 g)
Bacon, chopped 4 strips
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Maple syrup 3 tablespoons
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Apple cider vinegar 1 tablespoon
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Optional
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  3. Spread the Brussels sprouts and chopped bacon on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the Brussels sprouts are tender and the bacon is crispy.
  5. Drizzle maple syrup and apple cider vinegar over the Brussels sprouts and bacon, tossing to combine.
  6. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, remove, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy your Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Bacon!
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Baked Ziti With Spinach and Ricotta

creamy spinach ricotta ziti

Baked Ziti with Spinach and Ricotta is a comforting and satisfying Italian-American dish that combines tender pasta with creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and a hearty tomato sauce. This dish is perfect for cozy fall dinners, offering a warming blend of flavors that is sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients Quantity
Ziti pasta 1 lb (450 g)
Ricotta cheese 15 oz (425 g)
Fresh spinach, chopped 3 cups
Marinara sauce 4 cups
Mozzarella cheese, shredded 2 cups
Parmesan cheese, grated ½ cup
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish) Optional
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then add chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked ziti, ricotta cheese, spinach, and half of the marinara sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Spread half of the ziti mixture in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer with half of the remaining marinara sauce, and sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat with remaining ziti, marinara, and top with Parmesan cheese.
  5. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden.
  6. Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and enjoy this delicious autumn dish!
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Chicken Pot Pie With Flaky Crust

creamy chicken pot pie

Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Crust is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction on a chilly fall evening. This heartwarming dish features a creamy filling loaded with tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and a flaky, golden crust that seals in the flavors. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy family gathering or a weekend dinner.

Ingredients Quantity
Cooked chicken, shredded 2 cups
Frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn) 2 cups
Chicken broth 1 cup
Heavy cream 1 cup
Onion, diced 1 medium
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Butter 3 tablespoons
All-purpose flour 1/3 cup
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh thyme or dried thyme 1 teaspoon
Pie crust (store-bought or homemade) 1 (9-inch)
Egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
  2. Stir in flour and cook for about 1 minute, then gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer until the sauce thickens.
  3. Add shredded chicken, frozen vegetables, salt, pepper, and thyme to the skillet, mixing well.
  4. Pour the filling into a prepared pie crust in a pie dish and cover with the top crust. Seal and flute edges, and cut slits in the top for steam to escape.
  5. Brush the crust with the beaten egg for a golden finish, then bake for 30-35 minutes until the crust is golden brown.
  6. Allow the chicken pot pie to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this delightful fall meal!
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Roasted Vegetable and Quinoa Salad

hearty roasted vegetable salad

Roasted Vegetable and Quinoa Salad is a hearty and nutritious dish perfect for a fall dinner. This vibrant salad features a medley of roasted seasonal vegetables combined with protein-packed quinoa, tossed in a light vinaigrette. It’s both filling and invigorating, making it a great side dish or a main course for any occasion.

Ingredients Quantity
Quinoa 1 cup
Vegetable broth or water 2 cups
Assorted vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, Brussels sprouts) 4 cups
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped 1/4 cup
Balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons
Garlic powder 1 teaspoon
Feta cheese, crumbled (optional) 1/2 cup
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse quinoa under cold water, then cook it in vegetable broth or water according to package instructions.
  2. Chop the assorted vegetables into bite-sized pieces, toss them in olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer.
  3. Roast the vegetables in the oven for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, chopped parsley, and balsamic vinegar. Toss until well mixed.
  5. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with crumbled feta cheese if desired. Enjoy this colorful and nutritious fall salad!
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Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

garlic parmesan mashed potatoes

Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes are a creamy, flavorful side dish that perfectly complements any fall dinner. With buttery mashed potatoes infused with garlic and finished with a rich sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, this dish elevates the humble potato to an irresistible level of comfort food.

Ingredients Quantity
Russet potatoes 2 pounds
Garlic cloves, minced 4
Unsalted butter 1/2 cup
Heavy cream or milk 1/2 cup
Grated Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh chives or parsley (optional) 2 tablespoons, chopped
  1. Peel and cut the russet potatoes into chunks; place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil.
  2. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender. Drain and return them to the pot.
  3. In a small saucepan, melt the butter with minced garlic until fragrant. Add this mixture to the drained potatoes, along with heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese.
  4. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or parsley if desired. Enjoy the rich flavors of Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes alongside your favorite fall dishes!

Warm Apple Crisp With Vanilla Ice Cream

warm apple crisp dessert

Warm Apple Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream is a delightful dessert that celebrates the flavors of fall with its sweet and tart apples, topped with a crunchy, buttery oat topping. Served warm with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, this comforting dish is perfect for cozy weekend dinners.

Ingredients Quantity
Granny Smith apples 6 cups, peeled and sliced
Granulated sugar 1/2 cup
Cinnamon 1 tsp
Lemon juice 1 tbsp
Rolled oats 1 cup
All-purpose flour 1/2 cup
Brown sugar 1/2 cup
Unsalted butter, melted 1/2 cup
Salt 1/4 tsp
Vanilla ice cream For serving
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice; spread them evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  3. In another bowl, combine rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and salt; mix until crumbly.
  4. Sprinkle the oat mixture over the apples in the baking dish.
  5. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the apples are bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. 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.