Early fall dinners should be as easy as pie — well, easier than raking leaves, at least. If you’ve ever spent a crisp afternoon battling a mountain of foliage, you’ll appreciate these recipes that require far less effort. Think of them as your culinary shortcut to a cozy evening. These dishes are great for those nights when you want something simple and perfect without the hassle.
Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon
Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon is a hearty dish perfect for early fall dinners. Cubed butternut squash, cauliflower florets, and red onion are coated in a flavorful dressing of avocado oil, garlic, Dijon mustard, and spices, then oven-baked. Adding bacon pieces midway through cooking and finishing with wilted spinach, this dish is both nutrient-dense and filling. Optional sour cream adds a creamy touch.
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Hungarian Mushroom Soup
Hungarian Mushroom Soup is great for early fall dinners. Ready in 45 minutes, this one-pot meal combines mushrooms, onions, and a creamy broth. Sauté onions in butter, then add mushrooms and cook until softened. Stir in flour, then add broth and simmer. Mix in sour cream, milk, paprika, dill, and thyme. Simmer until thickened. Garnish with parsley and pepper. Quick, warming, and perfect for weeknight dinners or leisurely weekends.
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Chicken Tater Tot Casserole
Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is a go-to for busy weeknights. This dish is ready in under an hour and is the perfect comfort food. Budget-friendly and easy to prep in advance, it’s a hit with both kids and adults. Start by mixing cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Stir in shredded chicken and frozen corn. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle with cheese, and top with tater tots. Bake until bubbly, then add more cheese and bake until melted. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if you like. It’s simple, delicious, and great for leftovers.
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Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup
This Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup is just what you need for a fall dinner when you’re wanting something that’s warm and cozy, but also nutrient-dense. Ready in 1 hour, this one-pot soup is comforting and creamy. Sauté onions, then add spices, sweet potatoes, and red bell peppers. Pour in broth and bring to a boil, then simmer until the sweet potatoes are tender. Blend the soup until smooth and stir in heavy cream if desired. Garnish with sour cream or yogurt and parsley. Quick, flavorful, and great for weeknight or weekend meals.
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Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole
This Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole is a one-pot meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners and beginner cooks. Brown ground meat in an ovenproof skillet, then add chopped onions and bell peppers. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Add uncooked rice and chicken broth, then season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika. Bring to a boil, then simmer until the rice is cooked. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and broil until bubbly. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve. This filling and flavorful meal is sure to be a family favorite.
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Chicken Corn Soup
This Chicken Corn Soup is like a bowl of comfort for early fall evenings. Ready in under an hour, this one-pot meal combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a flavorful broth. Sauté onions, then brown the chicken. Add chicken broth, creamed corn, frozen corn, carrots, potatoes, and spices. Simmer until the chicken and vegetables are cooked. Stir in heavy cream and lemon juice, then garnish with parsley. Quick, hearty, and perfect for weeknight dinners.
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Twice Baked Potato Casserole
This Twice Baked Potato Casserole is ready in 1 hour and 50 minutes and features bacon, potatoes, sour cream, and cheddar cheese. Bake the bacon and potatoes, then mash the potatoes with sour cream, milk, butter, and seasonings. Stir in cheese and bacon, then bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with paprika and green onions. Perfect for a cozy meal and can be made in advance.
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Chicken Pot Pie Soup
This Chicken Pot Pie Soup is a go-to for fall dinners. Ready in 1 hour, this one-pot meal is hearty, creamy, and cozy. Cook the chicken, then sauté potatoes, carrots, celery, and onion. Add seasonings and flour, then stir in chicken broth and cooked chicken. Simmer until the potatoes are tender, then add frozen corn, peas, and heavy cream. Garnish with black pepper and parsley. Quick, comforting, and perfect for family dinners.
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Sausage Curry
Ready in 45 minutes, this one-pan dish features sausages and vegetables cooked in a rich and creamy curry sauce. Cook the sausages, then add sweet potatoes, carrots, and onions. Stir in garlic, curry powder, and ginger. Add chicken stock, tomato paste, coconut aminos, pepper, and salt, and simmer until thickened. Stir in peas and heavy cream, then serve over rice or cauliflower rice. For a finishing touch, garnish with a pinch of garam masala and chopped cilantro. This hearty and delicious meal is sure to become a family favorite.
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Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are great for those busy nights. Ready in just 20 minutes, these bite-sized pieces of chicken are cooked in a tasty buttery garlic sauce. Perfect for school nights or when you’re juggling after-school activities, this dish is quick and easy. Coat the chicken in cornstarch and salt, then cook in avocado oil. Prepare the garlic butter with melted butter and spices, then toss the chicken in the sauce. Garnish with lemon juice and parsley. Quick, tender, and perfect for weeknight dinners.
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Creamy Italian Sausage Soup
This Creamy Italian Sausage Soup is a quick and hearty option for early fall dinners. This one-pot dish combines ground mild Italian sausage, onions, and a mix of diced and pureed tomatoes. Enhanced with chicken broth, cream cheese, and spices, it simmers to perfection in just 12 minutes. Finished with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, it’s a comforting meal for cooler evenings, ready in 30 minutes.
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Wild Rice Mushroom Soup
Ready in 1 hour and 5 minutes, this hearty soup is full of rich, nutty flavor. Cook the wild rice in broth and water, while sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil. Add mushrooms, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper, then cook until mushrooms are soft. Stir in carrots and celery, then prepare an instant roux with butter and flour. Add milk, then combine with the cooked rice and broth. Simmer to meld flavors, then garnish with parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. This comforting soup is perfect for cozy evenings.
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Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole
Ready in under an hour, this dish combines tender egg noodles, tuna, and a creamy sauce. Topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs, it bakes to golden perfection. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a comforting meal that the whole family will love. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it great for leftovers. Enjoy a hearty dinner with this easy-to-make casserole.
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Philly Cheese Steak Casserole
This Philly Cheese Steak Casserole is ready in under an hour and combines sirloin steak, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and provolone cheese. Cook the steak and veggies, then mix with mozzarella, cream cheese, and an egg. Transfer to a baking dish, layer with provolone, and bake until golden and bubbly. Quick, filling, and perfect for weeknight dinners.
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Sweet and Spicy Bacon and Turkey Chili
Sweet and Spicy Bacon and Turkey Chili is ready in just over 1 hour. It’s a one-pot dish that’s hearty, warming, and always a great choice for the fall. Crisp the bacon, then cook the ground turkey and jalapeño in the bacon fat. Add spices and vegetables, then stir in diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Simmer, then stir in most of the bacon. Garnish with Greek yogurt, avocado, scallions, shredded cheddar, and cilantro. Quick, flavorful, and great for weeknight dinners.
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Cabbage and Sausage
This Cabbage and Sausage is made quickly and is full of flavor in each bite. Cook the chicken sausage until crispy, then set aside. In the same skillet, cook cabbage, onions, and spices in butter until tender. Add apple cider vinegar and return the sausage to the skillet. Garnish with some freshly cracked pepper and parsley. Quick, hearty, and perfect for weeknight dinners.
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Crock Pot Taco Soup
This Crock Pot Taco Soup is a lifesaver for busy early fall evenings. It’s a low-carb, gluten-free dish that features ground beef, cream cheese, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and spices. Brown the ground beef, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6-7 hours. Garnish with sour cream, cilantro, green onions, shredded cheddar, and avocado.
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Broccoli Casserole
This Broccoli Casserole, ready in just 50 minutes, brings together fresh broccoli, creamy mushroom soup, and melted cheddar cheese, all topped with a crispy cracker crust. It’s easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or for those new to cooking. The flavors and textures will be a hit with the whole family. Plus, it reheats well, so any leftovers can be enjoyed the next day. This casserole is a go-to for a quick and comforting meal that everyone will love.
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Chicken Tortellini Soup
This Chicken Tortellini Soup is always a favorite for making throughout the fall. Ready in just 40 minutes, this one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights. It combines tender chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, and a flavorful broth with fresh veggies and Italian seasoning. Optional garnishes like parsley and cracked pepper add a nice touch. This soup also reheats well, making leftovers easy. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy a wholesome dinner.
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White Bean Soup
White Bean Soup is perfect for those cool fall evenings. This soup is ready in just 40 minutes, making it a great choice for busy weeknights. It’s loaded with fresh veggies like carrots and celery, and the white beans add a hearty touch. Garlic, thyme, and rosemary give it a robust flavor, while a splash of lemon juice brightens things up. Top it with croutons and grated Parmesan for a nice finish. It’s easy to whip up, reheats well, and makes a quick, wholesome meal.
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Baked Ravioli
Baked Ravioli is a game-changer for busy fall weeknights. This dish, ready in just 1 hour, is like lasagna but with a lot less effort. Using frozen cheese ravioli cuts down on prep time, while layers of marinara sauce and melted cheeses make it a hit. Start by layering sauce and ravioli in a baking dish, then add mozzarella, Parmesan, and herbs. Repeat the layers, cover with foil, and bake. Finish it off by baking uncovered until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like. It’s an easy, comforting meal that the whole family will love, and it reheats well for leftovers.
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Reuben Bowls
Reuben Bowls are a great pick for early fall dinners. Ready in just 30 minutes, they’re perfect for quick dinners or make-ahead lunches. These bowls feature hearty corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese, all topped with a homemade Thousand Island dressing. Just cook everything in one skillet, and you’re good to go. The flavors come together nicely, making it a hit with everyone. Plus, you can store leftovers easily for another meal. Simple, fast, and delicious—these bowls are a must-try for busy weeknights.
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Loaded Tater Tots
Think of Loaded Tater Tots as the ultimate comfort food for early fall dinners. In just 35 minutes, you can have crispy tots topped with melted cheddar cheese, sour cream, bacon, and green onions. Bake the tater tots until they’re golden and crispy, then season with a mix of spices. While they bake, cook the bacon until crispy, crumble it, and set it aside. Once the tots are done, sprinkle them with cheese and let it melt. Top with sour cream, crumbled bacon, green onions, and chives. These loaded tater tots are an easy, comforting meal perfect for those cool fall evenings. Simple to make and always a hit with the family.
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Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
This Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole is a fast meal that we always love to make during the fall. This dish combines steamed cauliflower and broccoli with crispy bacon, sour cream, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar and mozzarella. After mixing, it’s baked until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Ready in 30 minutes, this casserole is hearty, easy to prepare, and a favorite with kids.
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Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach
Ready in 30 minutes, this Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach features ground beef, cauliflower rice, spinach, and cheddar cheese. Cook the cauliflower rice and beef, then mix with spinach, sour cream, and spices. Bake until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Quick, filling, and perfect for busy weeknights.
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Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice
Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice is a perfect choice for early fall dinners for busy weeknights. Ready in 30 minutes, this one-pan dish features ground beef, cauliflower rice, mushrooms, and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook the beef, then add onions, mushrooms, and cauliflower rice. Mix in cream cheese, beef broth, and spices. Top with cheddar and broil until golden.
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Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake
Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake is perfect for early fall dinners. Ready in 30 minutes, this casserole features chicken thighs, spinach, cream cheese, and mozzarella. Marinate the chicken, wilt the spinach, and layer everything in a baking pan. Bake until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted.
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Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner
Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner is great for early fall evenings. Ready in just 30 minutes, this meal features roasted Polish sausage, zucchini, broccoli, and sweet mini peppers. Toss everything with avocado oil and spices, then bake on one pan for easy cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is filling and flavorful, with minimal time spent in the kitchen.
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Creamy Dijon Chicken
Creamy Dijon Chicken is great for early fall dinners. Ready in 30 minutes, this one-pan recipe features seasoned chicken thighs, a creamy Dijon mustard sauce, fresh spinach, and crumbled bacon. Cook the chicken and bacon, then make the sauce with onions, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, chicken broth, lemon juice, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard. Add Parmesan and spinach, then combine everything. Serve on its own or alongside veggies, a side salad, or crusty bread.
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Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken is perfect for early fall dinners. Ready in 30 minutes, this one-pan dish features boneless chicken thighs cooked in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. Season the chicken, then cook it in a skillet before making the sauce with chicken broth, heavy cream, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese. Finish in the oven until the chicken is done. Quick, rich, and great for busy evenings.
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Keto Zuppa Toscana
Keto Zuppa Toscana is great for early fall dinners. This Olive Garden copycat soup swaps potatoes for radishes, mimicking their texture and flavor. Ready in 1 hour, it combines bacon, mild Italian sausage, kale, and a creamy broth. Cook the bacon and sausage, then make the soup with chicken broth, heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan. Add radishes and kale, simmer, and top with crispy bacon. Perfect for a cozy, flavorful meal.
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Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts
This Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts is ready in 30 minutes and features boneless chicken thighs cooked in a creamy sauce with artichoke hearts. Season and cook the chicken, then make the sauce with heavy cream, chicken stock, Parmesan, and artichokes. Combine everything and garnish with parsley and pepper. Quick, rich, high in protein, and perfect for weeknight family dinners or date nights.
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Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup
Looking for a cozy dinner idea for those early fall nights? Try Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup. This recipe is incredibly easy and perfect for anyone, even if you’re new to cooking. Just prep your ingredients, toss them into the slow cooker, and let it simmer away. You can cook it on low for a longer period or crank it up to high if you’re in a hurry. Featuring dried split peas, chicken broth, ham, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and thyme, this soup is hearty and full of flavor. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top if you like. It’s a simple, comforting meal that also keeps well for leftovers.
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Shake and Bake Pork Chops
Shake and Bake Pork Chops are great for a quick, crispy dinner without the mess of frying. Ready in just 25 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Coat the pork chops with mayo and a seasoned breadcrumb mix, then bake until golden and crunchy. It’s a family favorite that’s easy enough for beginner cooks. Just coat, shake, and bake—no frying needed. Enjoy a great meal with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Plus, they reheat well, so leftovers are a breeze.
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Creamy Garlic Chicken
Creamy Garlic Chicken is perfect for early fall dinners. Ready in just 30 minutes, this one-pan meal features chicken breasts cooked in a creamy white sauce with Parmesan, garlic, and heavy cream. Season and cook the chicken, then make the sauce with chicken stock, cream, and Parmesan. Combine everything and garnish with parsley and pepper. Quick, rich, and great for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
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Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil
Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil brings the flavors of a classic boil to your dinner table with minimal fuss. Ready in under an hour, this dish combines baby red potatoes, corn, andouille sausage, shrimp, and lemon slices, all seasoned with Old Bay. Start by baking the potatoes, then add the corn and sausage, and finally, the shrimp and lemon wedges. Everything cooks together on one sheet pan, making cleanup a breeze. This meal is great for busy weeknights, and the leftovers are just as good the next day.
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Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms
This Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms is a one-pot dish ready in just 30 minutes, making it a great choice for early fall dinners. Frozen cauliflower rice, Portobello mushrooms, and fresh thyme create a creamy, nutrient-dense meal. With simple ingredients like onions, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese, this dish is both quick to prepare and comforting for cooler evenings.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms
Creamy Tuscan Chicken
Creamy Tuscan Chicken is great for early fall dinners. Ready in 40 minutes, this one-pan dish features chicken thighs with crisped skin, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach in a creamy sauce. Cook the chicken, then make the sauce with chicken broth, onions, garlic, Italian seasoning, Parmesan, and cream. Add spinach and combine everything. Quick, rich, and perfect for a flavorful, filling meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken
Chicken With Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Chicken With Creamy Mushroom Sauce is great for early fall dinners. Ready in 30 minutes, this one-pan meal features chicken thighs smothered in a creamy mushroom sauce. Season and cook the chicken, then prepare the sauce with mushrooms, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, and Parmesan. Combine everything and garnish with freshly cracked pepper, red pepper flakes, or parsley. Quick, rich, and perfect for weeknight dinners or date nights.
Get the Recipe: Chicken With Creamy Mushroom Sauce