As the leaves start to change and the crisp autumn air sets in, our minds turn to warm, comforting meals that evoke the cozy feeling of snuggling up by the fire. Whether you’re a fan of rich, creamy sauces or hearty, one-pot wonders, there’s something for everyone in this collection of 20 delicious fall recipes.
From classic comfort foods like butternut squash mac and cheese to innovative twists on traditional dishes like caramel apple stuffed French toast, these recipes are sure to become new favorites. And with a focus on seasonal ingredients like pumpkin, apples, and Brussels sprouts, you’ll be able to enjoy the flavors of the season all year long.
In this article, we’ll take you through some of the most mouthwatering fall dinner ideas, from savory main courses to sweet treats and everything in between. So grab a cup of hot cider and get cozy – it’s time to dive into the world of fall cooking!
Pumpkin Sage Risotto
This creamy Pumpkin Sage Risotto is a perfect fall-inspired dish that combines the warmth of roasted pumpkin with the earthy flavor of sage. A comforting side or main course, it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 medium pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 4-6 fresh sage leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Toss pumpkin with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large skillet, heat butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring until absorbed. Cook for about 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.
5. Stir in roasted pumpkin, Parmesan cheese, and chopped sage. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes
Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
This comforting dish combines the rich flavors of butternut squash with a creamy macaroni and cheese sauce, perfect for a cozy night in. With its velvety texture and subtle sweetness from the roasted squash, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the butternut squash for 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cook macaroni according to package instructions.
4. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes.
6. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Combine cooked macaroni and roasted squash with the cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the flavors of apple cider, brown sugar, and pork chops.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 lbs)
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider, brown sugar, olive oil, garlic, and Dijon mustard.
3. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
4. Place pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the apple cider glaze evenly over both sides of the pork chops.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Mushroom and Wild Rice Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup, perfect for a cozy evening or a pick-me-up on a chilly day. This recipe combines the earthy flavors of wild rice and mushrooms in a rich and creamy broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 1 cup uncooked wild rice
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the wild rice and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until the rice is tender.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Elevate your side dish game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts with the smoky goodness of bacon. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, cook bacon pieces in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and a pinch of salt.
7. After Brussels sprouts have roasted for 20 minutes, remove from oven and toss with maple syrup mixture and crispy bacon.
8. Return to the oven and roast for an additional 5-10 minutes or until caramelized.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Harvest Stuffed Acorn Squash
This autumnal recipe celebrates the flavors of the harvest season with a deliciously easy-to-make stuffed acorn squash dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 large acorn squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stuff each squash half with the cooked rice mixture, followed by the goat cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper.
5. Place the stuffed squash on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the filling is heated through.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Root Vegetables
Warm up on a chilly day with this hearty and comforting slow cooker stew, packed with tender beef and a medley of root vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck or brisket, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine beef, onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, parsnip, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, and thyme.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Tart
Savor the sweet and savory combination of caramelized onions, melted Gruyère cheese, and flaky pastry in this elegant tart perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place on prepared baking sheet.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown (about 20-25 minutes).
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet during the last 5 minutes of cooking onions. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Spread cooked onions evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
6. Sprinkle Gruyère cheese over the onions.
7. Fold edges of pastry up over filling, pressing gently to seal.
8. Brush pastry with beaten egg for golden glaze.
9. Bake tart for 25-30 minutes or until pastry is golden and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Mashed Potatoes
Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Elevate your mashed potato game with the rich flavors of roasted garlic and rosemary!
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the potato cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
3. While the potatoes are roasting, toss the garlic cloves with 1 tablespoon of butter and spread them out on a separate baking sheet. Roast for 30-35 minutes, or until soft and caramelized.
4. Remove the potatoes from the oven and let cool slightly. Mash with a potato masher or fork, then stir in the roasted garlic, chopped rosemary, heavy cream or whole milk, salt, and pepper.
Cooking Time:
– Roasting potatoes: 45-50 minutes
– Roasting garlic: 30-35 minutes
– Mashing and serving: 10-15 minutes
Total Cooking Time: 1 hour 25-30 minutes
Serve warm and enjoy the perfect side dish for your next meal!
Spiced Pear and Walnut Salad
A sweet and savory salad that combines the warmth of spices with the freshness of pears and nuts. Perfect as a light lunch or as a side dish for your favorite main courses.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and diced
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley or mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced pears and chopped walnuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
3. Pour the honey mixture over the pear and walnut mixture, and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or mint leaves.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cranberry Balsamic Chicken Thighs
Cranberry Balsamic Chicken Thighs Recipe
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and tangy recipe, featuring tender chicken thighs smothered in a cranberry-balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-12 minutes or until the cranberries have popped and the glaze has thickened slightly.
4. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
5. Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and spoon the cranberry-balsamic glaze over them, making sure they’re fully coated.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Enchiladas
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the savory flavor of black beans, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla and smothered in a rich enchilada sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/4 cup enchilada sauce
– 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the sweet potatoes for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the black beans and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly browned.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the enchiladas by spooning the sweet potato mixture onto a tortilla, followed by some black beans and a sprinkle of cheese.
6. Place the filled tortillas seam-side down in a baking dish and cover with the remaining enchilada sauce.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Autumn Harvest Grain Bowl
Celebrate the flavors of the season with this nutritious and delicious grain bowl, featuring roasted vegetables and a hint of warm spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa
– 2 cups mixed roasted vegetables (such as sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and red onions)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: crumbled goat cheese or chopped nuts for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss roasted vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and cumin.
4. Cook brown rice or quinoa according to package instructions.
5. To assemble the bowls, place cooked grain at the bottom, followed by roasted vegetables, chopped parsley, and drizzle with honey-cumin mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herb-Roasted Turkey with Gravy
Elevate your holiday meal with this flavorful and aromatic turkey recipe, infused with fresh herbs and served with a rich and savory gravy.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs of fresh thyme
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, quartered
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Gravy ingredients: 2 cups turkey drippings, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, thyme, rosemary, garlic, and lemon zest.
4. Rub the herb mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season the turkey with salt and pepper.
6. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for about 3-1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. While the turkey is cooking, prepare the gravy by whisking together flour and drippings in a small bowl. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
8. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving with the warm gravy.
Cooking Time: approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes
Pumpkin and Sage Gnocchi
Cozy up with this autumnal take on traditional gnocchi, infused with the warm flavors of pumpkin and sage.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked pumpkin puree
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup semolina flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
– Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine pumpkin puree, all-purpose flour, semolina flour, and salt.
2. Add the egg and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces.
5. Roll out each piece into a long rope, about 1/2 inch in diameter.
6. Cut the rope into 1-inch pieces to form gnocchi.
7. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi for 3-5 minutes or until they float to the surface.
8. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain off excess water.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caramel Apple Stuffed French Toast
Start your day with a sweet twist on traditional breakfast, featuring caramel apples and crispy French toast.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably Challah or Brioche)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2-3 slices of apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well), sliced into thin pieces
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the coated bread slices on the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. While French toast is cooking, prepare the caramel apples by spreading a small amount of caramel sauce on each apple piece.
6. Assemble the stuffed French toast by placing a cooked slice on a plate, topping with a few pieces of caramel apple, and dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
This vibrant salad combines the natural sweetness of roasted beets with the tanginess of goat cheese, all on a bed of fresh greens. A perfect combination for a light yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 4 cups mixed greens
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pistachios for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap the beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let the beets cool, then peel and slice into wedges.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, roasted beet wedges, crumbled goat cheese, salt, and pepper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Smoky Lentil and Kale Stew
This hearty stew combines the earthy flavors of lentils and kale with a smoky depth, perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly day. With minimal prep time and a long simmering period, this recipe is ideal for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Stir in the kale and continue to simmer until wilted, about 10 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Brown Butter Butternut Squash Pasta
This rich and comforting pasta dish combines the sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the nutty flavor of brown butter, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the butternut squash in half and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and whisk until combined. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in roasted butternut squash, salt, and pepper.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the brown butter sauce.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cinnamon Spiced Apple Crisp
This classic dessert combines tender apples with a crunchy oat topping and the comforting warmth of cinnamon, perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss until apples are evenly coated.
3. Transfer apple mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
5. Top apple mixture with oat topping, spreading evenly.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get cozy with these 20 delicious fall recipes! From comforting dinner delights like Pumpkin Sage Risotto and Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese, to sweet treats like Caramel Apple Stuffed French Toast, there’s something for everyone. Hearty soups, stews, and braises are perfect for chilly fall nights, while roasted vegetables and savory main courses will keep you warm and satisfied. With a variety of flavors and ingredients, these recipes showcase the best of autumn’s bounty. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or a lighter meal, there’s a recipe on this list to suit your taste.
