11 Weeknight Friendly Fall Dinner Recipes

autumn inspired easy dinner ideas

Hearty Pumpkin Soup

comforting savory pumpkin soup

Hearty Pumpkin Soup is the quintessential comfort food for fall, blending the natural sweetness of pumpkin with savory ingredients to create a warm, nourishing dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this soup is not only satisfying but also easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy evenings. Serve it as a starter or pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal that captures the essence of the season.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh pumpkin, diced 4 cups
Onion, chopped 1 medium
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt 1 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon
Nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon
Heavy cream 1/2 cup (optional)
Fresh parsley For garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Add the diced pumpkin, salt, black pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
  3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender.
  4. Use an immersion blender (or a regular blender) to puree the soup until smooth.
  5. Stir in heavy cream if desired, and adjust seasoning to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy!
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One-Pan Apple Sage Chicken

savory apple sage chicken

One-Pan Apple Sage Chicken is a delightful fall-inspired dish that combines savory chicken with the sweet crunch of apples, elevated by the aromatic fragrance of fresh sage. This one-pan recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, delivering a flavorful and satisfying meal with minimal cleanup required.

Ingredients Quantity
Chicken thighs, bone-in 4 pieces
Apples, sliced 2 medium
Onion, sliced 1 medium
Fresh sage, chopped 2 tablespoons
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt 1 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Chicken broth 1 cup
Honey 1 tablespoon

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and black pepper, then brown them in the skillet on both sides for about 5 minutes.
  3. Remove the chicken from the skillet, add the sliced onion and apple, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
  4. Stir in the chopped sage and honey, then place the chicken back into the skillet.
  5. Pour chicken broth over the chicken, then transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
  6. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Serve hot and enjoy your meal!
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Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

cheesy broccoli rice casserole

Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that combines tender broccoli with fluffy rice enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole is not only easy to prepare but also makes for a satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients Quantity
Broccoli florets 4 cups
Cooked rice 2 cups
Cheddar cheese, shredded 2 cups
Cream of mushroom soup 1 can (10.5 oz)
Milk 1/2 cup
Onion, diced 1 medium
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Bread crumbs (optional) 1/2 cup

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until softened.
  3. In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice, sautéed onion and garlic, broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  4. Fold in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, then pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
  5. Top with remaining cheddar cheese and bread crumbs if using.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve warm and enjoy!
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Spiced Lentil and Butternut Squash Stew

hearty autumn lentil stew

Spiced Lentil and Butternut Squash Stew is a warm and nourishing dish perfect for cozy fall evenings. This hearty stew combines protein-packed lentils with sweet butternut squash and a medley of aromatic spices, creating a vibrant, flavorful meal that is both satisfying and healthy. It’s an ideal option for busy weeknights, as it can be prepared in just one pot.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion, diced 1 medium
Carrot, diced 1 large
Celery, diced 1 stalk
Garlic, minced 3 cloves
Butternut squash, peeled and diced 4 cups
Dried green or brown lentils 1 cup
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Ground cumin 1 teaspoon
Ground coriander 1 teaspoon
Paprika 1 teaspoon
Salt 1 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Fresh spinach (optional) 2 cups

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion, carrot, and celery until softened.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the butternut squash, lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil.
  4. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 25-30 minutes or until the lentils and squash are tender.
  5. If using, stir in fresh spinach just before serving until wilted. Serve warm and enjoy!
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Autumn Harvest Salad With Roasted Sweet Potatoes

autumn salad with sweet potatoes

Autumn Harvest Salad with Roasted Sweet Potatoes is a vibrant and wholesome dish that celebrates the flavors of fall. This invigorating salad combines roasted sweet potatoes, crisp greens, and a medley of toppings that come together for a nutritious and satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this salad is both quick to prepare and packed with seasonal goodness.

Ingredients Quantity
Sweet potatoes, diced 2 medium
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Mixed greens (spinach, arugula) 4 cups
Dried cranberries 1/2 cup
Feta cheese, crumbled 1/2 cup
Walnuts, chopped 1/4 cup
Balsamic vinaigrette 1/4 cup

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and black pepper, then spread evenly on a baking sheet.
  2. Roast the sweet potatoes for 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and golden, flipping halfway through.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, roasted sweet potatoes, cranberries, feta cheese, and walnuts.
  4. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette, toss gently to combine, and serve immediately for a delightful and nutritious fall salad. Enjoy!
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Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Pasta

creamy mushroom spinach pasta

Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Pasta is a comforting and satisfying dish that perfectly captures the essence of fall with its rich flavors and creamy texture. This recipe combines al dente pasta with sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a luscious cream sauce, making it a quick and delicious dinner option for busy weeknights.

Ingredients Quantity
Pasta (fettuccine or penne) 8 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
Red pepper flakes (optional) 1/4 teaspoon

Instructions:

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, then add sliced mushrooms and cook until tender.
  3. Stir in the fresh spinach, cooking until wilted, then pour in the heavy cream and add Parmesan cheese, stirring until well combined and heated through.
  4. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly in the creamy sauce.
  5. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy this cozy fall pasta dish!
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Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts With Bacon

maple glazed brussels sprouts recipe

Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is a delightful side dish that combines the nutty flavors of roasted Brussels sprouts with the savory crunch of crispy bacon, all elevated by a sweet maple glaze. This recipe makes for a perfect accompaniment to any hearty fall meal, bringing both taste and seasonal flair to your dinner table.

Ingredients Quantity
Brussels sprouts, halved 1 pound
Bacon strips 6 slices
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Maple syrup 1/4 cup
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Apple cider vinegar 1 tablespoon
Garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon and let it cool on paper towels; reserve some drippings in the skillet.
  3. In the same skillet, add halved Brussels sprouts and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Toss to coat.
  4. Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for about 20 minutes until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
  5. In a small bowl, combine maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and the reserved bacon drippings. Drizzle this mixture over the roasted Brussels sprouts and toss gently.
  6. Crumble the crispy bacon and mix it in with the Brussels sprouts. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
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Beef and Root Vegetable Shepherd’s Pie

comforting beef and vegetables

Beef and Root Vegetable Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for fall dinners. This classic recipe features a savory ground beef filling enriched with vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and peas, all topped with a creamy, buttery mashed potato layer. It’s not only satisfying but also a great way to enjoy seasonal root vegetables.

Ingredients Quantity
Ground beef 1 pound
Carrots, diced 2 medium
Parsnips, diced 2 medium
Peas, frozen 1 cup
Onion, chopped 1 medium
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Beef broth 1 cup
Worcestershire sauce 2 tablespoons
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Potatoes, peeled and cubed 2 pounds
Butter 4 tablespoons
Milk 1/2 cup
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh thyme (optional) 1 teaspoon

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and parsnips, cooking until softened.
  3. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and beef broth, and let simmer for a few minutes. Add peas and season with salt and black pepper.
  4. While the filling simmers, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until creamy.
  5. Spread the beef and vegetable mixture in a baking dish, then top with the mashed potatoes, smoothing out the surface.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and slightly crispy. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
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Turkey and Cranberry Stuffed Peppers

turkey cranberry stuffed peppers

Turkey and Cranberry Stuffed Peppers are a delightful and nutritious fall dish that’s both colorful and full of flavor. These stuffed peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground turkey, cranberries, and aromatic spices, making them perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. Not only are they easy to make, but they also bring a festive touch to your table.

Ingredients Quantity
Bell peppers 4 large
Ground turkey 1 pound
Fresh cranberries 1 cup
Quinoa, cooked 1 cup
Onion, chopped 1 medium
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Chicken broth 1/2 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Dried thyme 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Shredded cheese (optional) 1 cup

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place them upright in a baking dish.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, then add onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in the ground turkey, cooking until browned.
  4. Add cranberries, cooked quinoa, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper, mixing well. Cook for a few minutes until heated through.
  5. Spoon the turkey mixture into each prepared bell pepper and top with shredded cheese if desired.
  6. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the peppers are tender and the tops are golden. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
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Savory Quinoa and Kale Bowl

nourishing quinoa kale bowl

Savory Quinoa and Kale Bowl is a nourishing and hearty dish that’s perfect for fall evenings. Combining protein-rich quinoa with the superfood kale and a medley of colorful vegetables, this bowl is not only a vibrant addition to your dinner table but also packed with vitamins and minerals. Ideal for a quick weeknight meal, it can be customized with your favorite toppings for added flavor and texture.

Ingredients Quantity
Quinoa, uncooked 1 cup
Kale, chopped 2 cups
Cherry tomatoes, halved 1 cup
Carrot, grated 1 medium
Cucumber, diced 1 medium
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Lemon juice 2 tablespoons
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Feta cheese (optional) 1/2 cup

Instructions:

  1. Rinse quinoa under cold water, then cook according to package directions.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add chopped kale, cooking until wilted.
  3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, sautéed kale, halved cherry tomatoes, grated carrot, and diced cucumber.
  4. Drizzle with lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to combine.
  5. Top with feta cheese if desired and serve immediately. Enjoy your Savory Quinoa and Kale Bowl!

Classic Chicken Pot Pie

hearty chicken pot pie

Classic Chicken Pot Pie is a comforting and hearty dish that brings warmth to chilly fall evenings. This classic casserole features tender chicken and a medley of vegetables enveloped in a flaky, golden crust. It’s a perfect way to use up leftover poultry and create a delicious, satisfying meal for the entire family.

Ingredients Quantity
Cooked chicken, shredded 2 cups
Frozen mixed vegetables 2 cups
Onion, chopped 1 medium
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Chicken broth 1 cup
Milk 1/2 cup
All-purpose flour 1/3 cup
Butter 1/4 cup
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Pie crust, store-bought or homemade 2 (9-inch)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until softened.
  3. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add chicken broth and milk, stirring until the mixture thickens.
  4. Add shredded chicken, frozen vegetables, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
  5. Pour the chicken mixture into a pie crust in a pie dish. Cover with the second pie crust, sealing edges and making slits for steam to escape.
  6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Classic Chicken Pot Pie!

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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.