Cozy Fall Dinner Recipe Ideas To Try This Season
Fall is here, and it’s the perfect time to embrace all the cozy flavors the season has to offer.
Chilly fall evenings are all about getting cozy. And what’s better than a yummy seasonal dish to pair with your cosy session?
Whatever you’re in the mood for – a comforting stew, a fresh salad with autumnal flair, or a hearty main dish to feed your family, there’s something in this post for every taste.
This list of 50 fall dinner recipes includes everything from warm, roasted vegetables to flavorful soups, savory sides, and satisfying mains.
I am sure these dishes will fill your kitchen with the aromas of the season and keep you coming back for more. Make sure you pin this post to your best fall dinner recipe Pinterest board to come back later!
So what are you waiting for?
Let’s dive in!
Main Course Dinner Ideas for Fall
Oven Baked/Casseroles/Bakes
1. Sweet Potato Moussaka by Sorted Food
Sweet potato moussaka puts an autumn spin on the classic with layers of savory lamb, creamy white sauce, and tender sweet potato.
It’s cozy, flavorful, and perfect for the cooler fall evenings.
2. Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole by Glen and Friends Cooking
This casserole is a hearty, no-fuss dinner that’s perfect for busy fall nights.
Tender chicken and nutty wild rice come together in a stock base. I love how it’s a one-dish wonder — minimal prep, maximum flavor.
The best part?
It reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers. Serve it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
3. Ground Turkey Pasta Bake by Ahead of Thyme
This dish is a comforting, one-pan wonder that brings together lean ground turkey, whole wheat pasta, and mushrooms.
It’s baked to perfection with a sprinkle of cheese, creating a satisfying meal that’s both hearty and wholesome.
I appreciate how it’s a healthier twist on traditional pasta bakes, without compromising on flavor.
It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something nutritious and easy to prepare. And, is great for meal prepping and reheats beautifully.
4. Roasted Butternut Squash Casserole by Dished
This casserole is a celebration of fall flavors, featuring roasted butternut squash as the star ingredient.
I love how simple yet elegant this dish is, making it suitable for both weeknight dinners and holiday gatherings.
The casserole bakes to a golden perfection, offering a comforting and satisfying meal.
5. Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash by Watchsuperfoods
This dish is a celebration of fall in every bite.
The acorn squash is perfectly roasted, providing a sweet and nutty base, while the quinoa stuffing adds a hearty and nutritious filling.
I love how this recipe combines simple ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. It’s a great option for a cozy dinner or as a side dish for a festive occasion.
And, it’s vegetarian-friendly, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.
6. Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese by Moribyan
This dish is a comforting twist on the classic mac and cheese, featuring a creamy butternut squash sauce infused with fresh sage and thyme.
I appreciate how the butternut squash not only adds a subtle sweetness but also contributes to a velvety texture without being overly heavy.
It’s a perfect side for fall gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. And, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies without compromising on taste.
7. Turkey Pot Pie by Sally’s Baking Recipes
This turkey pot pie is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for utilizing leftover turkey.
The filling is a creamy blend of turkey and vegetables, all encased in a flaky, golden crust. I like how this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a hearty and satisfying meal.
It’s ideal for cozy fall evenings or as a delightful way to repurpose holiday leftovers. And the fact that it can be made ahead and frozen, making it a convenient option for busy days.
One-Pot / Stovetop / Skillet Recipes
8. Pumpkin Risotto by Recipedis
This creamy pumpkin risotto brings all the cozy fall vibes in one elegant dish.
Made with sweet Hokkaido pumpkin, a splash of white wine, and a fragrant homemade veggie broth, it’s both comforting and beautifully balanced.
I love how the toasted pumpkin seeds and pumpkin seed oil give it a little crunch and richness—it feels fancy without being fussy.
It’s perfect for a chilly night when you want something warm, nourishing, and a little bit special.
Additionally, it’s a great way to utilize seasonal pumpkins in a fresh and savory way.
9. Creamy Beef Pumpkin Pasta by Blondelish
This one-pan pasta is a cozy, fall-inspired dish that combines the savory richness of ground beef with the subtle sweetness of pumpkin purée.
I love how this recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty and satisfying.
The pasta cooks directly in the flavorful broth, absorbing all the deliciousness and reducing cleanup.
It’s a comforting meal that brings warmth and flavor to your table with minimal effort.
10. Swedish Meatballs by The Stay At Home Chef
Swedish meatballs! Just thinking about it makes my mouth water!
I believe everyone should try this dish at least once in their lifetime.
Swedish meatballs are such a warm and satisfying dinner idea for chilly evenings.
The best part of this dish is the rich, creamy gravy that ties everything together—it’s the kind of sauce that makes you want seconds.
Serve it over mashed potatoes or noodles for a filling, feel-good meal that comes together beautifully in one pan.
You can even bake the meatballs if you prefer a hands-off approach.
11. Apple Cider Glazed Chicken by Jehan Powell
This apple cider glazed chicken is fall in a pan.
The crispy golden skin, the fresh herbs, and that sweet-tangy glaze made from cider and mustard—it’s such a flavorful twist on a simple chicken dinner.
I love how the sauce simmers down into a rich glaze that clings to each piece, making it look and taste like something straight out of a restaurant.
It’s a great recipe for when you want something a little special without spending all night in the kitchen. Serve it with roasted veggies or a scoop of mashed potatoes to soak up that delicious sauce.
12. Sheet Pan Gnocchi With Roasted Veggies by The Recipe Well
This sheet pan gnocchi recipe is such a cozy and colorful fall dinner.
I like how everything—pillowy gnocchi, tender butternut squash, broccoli, and red onion—roasts together on one pan for maximum ease and flavor.
This is the kind of comforting weeknight dinner that tastes way fancier than it actually is.
And, cleanup is a breeze!
13. Butternut Squash and Italian Sausage Skillet by Lean Bellas Kitchen
This skillet dish is a cozy fall dish, bringing together roasted butternut squash, savory Italian sausage, and a pop of green from spinach.
I’m really into how easy it is to prepare while still delivering a burst of flavors.
The sweetness of the squash pairs perfectly with the richness of the sausage, and the spinach adds a lovely earthy touch.
This one is sure to warm you up on a crisp evening!
14. Healthy Turkey Chili by Downshiftology
This turkey chili is everything you want in a fall dish—hearty, comforting, and full of wholesome ingredients.
I’m an admirer of how it’s packed with lean turkey, beans, and veggies, making it both filling and nutritious.
The smoky, spiced flavor profile is just right, and it’s super easy to adjust based on your personal spice preferences.
This chili is perfect for meal prep, and it’s a dish that gets even better the next day, making it a great option for busy weeks.
15. One-Pan Maple Dijon Chicken with Veggies by 12 Tomatoes
This is the kind of weeknight dinner you’d want to keep coming back to—it’s quick, wholesome, and absolutely full of fall flavor.
I like how the maple dijon glaze adds a subtle sweetness that plays so well with the roasted butternut squash and Brussels sprouts.
Everything cooks on a single sheet pan, which means minimal cleanup and maximum ease. It’s the kind of effortless meal that still feels a little special, perfect for both busy evenings and laid-back dinner guests.
16. Creamy Chicken with Pumpkin and Mushrooms by Coles
This slow cooker chicken dish is everything you want in a fall dinner—rich, comforting, and filled with layers of savory flavor.
The smoky bacon and paprika add depth, while chunks of pumpkin and mushrooms soak up all that goodness as they simmer away with the chicken.
After a few hours, you’re left with fall-off-the-bone tender drumsticks in a creamy, cozy sauce.
Serve it with crusty sourdough and a squeeze of lemon, and it feels like the kind of rustic meal you’d find in a countryside kitchen on a chilly day.
17. Harvest Chicken Skillet by Well Plated
This cozy one-pan wonder brings together everything you love about fall into one delicious skillet.
Juicy chicken, crispy bacon, tender Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, and tart apples cook down with garlic, thyme, and a pinch of cinnamon for a dish that’s both savory and lightly sweet.
I like this kind of easy dinner recipes that make your kitchen smell incredible and your table feel festive. And I think this dish is perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual gathering.
18. Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs with Veggies by Jenna Passaro
This sheet pan chicken dinner is what we expect a busy weeknight meal to be: simple, flavorful, and practically mess-free.
Sweet potatoes and red onions are roasted together with the chicken in this recipe. With only one pan and minimal prep, this is a fuss-free fall dinner that feels comforting yet fresh.
19. Pumpkin Alfredo by Pinch of Yum
This creamy pumpkin alfredo is fall comfort food at its finest—rich, cozy, and surprisingly easy to make with just a handful of ingredients and one pan.
I love how it comes together in no time and how you can add more veggies of your choice and customize it to your liking.
20. Chicken and Mushroom Stroganoff by Always Yummy!
This creamy chicken stroganoff is a dream dinner for crisp fall nights.
The tender chicken thigh strips mix with earthy mushrooms and onions before being coated in a tangy sour cream–Dijon mustard sauce.
It’s surprisingly quick to pull together and you can serve it over mashed potatoes, pasta, or veggies—whatever you’re craving.
And the fresh parsley sprinkle adds just the right pop of color and brightness.
Slow Cooker / Shredded / Pulled Recipes
21. Mexican Shredded Beef by Cooking Con Claudia
Slow-cooked and packed with flavor, this Mexican shredded beef is perfect for cozy fall evenings or game day spreads.
Tucked into warm corn tortillas with melty cheese, sautéed Anaheim peppers, and fresh toppings like cilantro and red onion, I feel these tacos are pure comfort.
22. Slow cooker pot roast with veggies by How Do You Cook – Back To Basics
This fall favorite is the kind of comfort food that practically cooks itself.
Just toss chunks of roast, potatoes, carrots, celery, and onions into your slow cooker, then pour over a simple savory seasoning mix.
After a few hours, everything is tender, flavorful, and ready to serve—no oven or stovetop required.
Perfect for busy days or when you want a fuss-free family dinner.
23. Crock Pot Turkey Breast by Eating on a Dime
This slow-cooked turkey breast is a no-fuss way to enjoy a cozy fall dinner.
The turkey simmers on a bed of onions with a flavorful garlic herb butter, and the drippings get turned into a simple homemade gravy.
It’s juicy, comforting, and perfect for Thanksgiving or any chilly evening when you want something special without the oven.
24. Mississipi Chicken Sliders by My Ol’ Lady’s Cookin’ Show
Mississippi chicken, provolone cheese, a mayo-mustard spread, and buttery slider rolls baked to golden perfection—easy, satisfying, and perfect for fall.
Serve these cozy sliders for game day, weeknight dinners, or as a crowd-pleasing party snack.
Soups and Stews Recipes for Fall
25. Pumpkin Curry Soup by Toni Okamoto
This pumpkin curry soup is another great recipe idea for a perfect cozy dinner for a chilly fall evening.
It’s creamy from the coconut milk, full of warm spices like cumin and curry powder, and loaded with plant-based protein from tofu.
You can toss in any extra veggies you have on hand, making it both flexible and fuss-free. Everything comes together in just one pot with minimal prep.
It’s comforting, nourishing, and ideal for busy weeknights.
26. Bacon Cheeseburger Soup by All Wings Everything
This creamy dish captures the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in soup form.
Ground beef, crispy bacon, and a blend of cheddar cheeses create a comforting and hearty base.
Thanks to the combination of whipping cream and chicken broth, this soup has a lovely velvety texture. Topped with more crispy bacon, this is definitely a delicious meal idea for cooler days to nourish your soul.
27. Chicken Wild Rice Soup by Ashley-The Recipe Rebel
Here is another delicious soup idea that is perfect as a hearty meal for a cozy evening.
With tender chicken, fluffy rice, and savory vegetables, it’s both comforting and filling.
The rich broth comes together with just a few simple ingredients, and the cream gives it a smooth, velvety finish.
Easy to make and full of flavor, it’s the kind of soup that’ll warm you up from the inside out.
Perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious and satisfying!
28. Beef and Butternut Squash Stew by Martin’s Eat Smart. Be Well.
This Beef & Butternut Squash Stew is the perfect dish for fall.
Tender chunks of beef chuck roast simmer with carrots, onion, butternut squash, and earthy mushrooms for a hearty, flavorful meal.
This stew is a comforting, one-pot wonder that’s both satisfying and easy to make.
Doesn’t it look ideal for a cozy family fall dinner?
29. Lentil Stew with Sweet Potatoes by Spain on a Fork
This lentil stew with sweet potatoes is a deliciously hearty dish and combines tender sweet potatoes and earthy lentils with aromatic spices like paprika, garlic, and bay leaves.
I love how easy it is to prepare this dish with minimal ingredients.
And, it’s a one-pot wonder that makes cleanup easy!
30. Autumn Minestrone Soup by Culinary Ginger
This autumn minestrone soup is a cozy, hearty dish that brings all the fall flavors together in one pot.
Packed with tender vegetables like zucchini, squash, and carrots, and enriched with pancetta and Parmesan rind, it’s both savory and satisfying.
The addition of beans and pasta makes it extra filling.
This soup is a comforting bowl of warmth that’s simple to prepare and sure to please everyone!
31. Creamy Mushroom Soup with Thyme by RecipeTin Eats
Here is another perfect fall comfort food.
With earthy mushrooms, fragrant onions, and garlic simmered in butter, the flavors meld together beautifully to create a rich, creamy base.
Garnished with a drizzle of olive oil, croutons, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, this soup is sure to become a go-to for chilly nights!
32. Chicken, Apple and Butternut Squash Stew by Well Done
Here is a savory-sweet recipe perfect for fall.
The combination of tender chicken, roasted butternut squash, and apples is enhanced by the aromatic flavors of sage, ginger, and onion.
Served with a generous sprinkle of salt and pepper, it’s a satisfying, cozy meal that’s easy to prepare and full of seasonal flavors.
33. Roasted Butternut Squash and Apple Soup by Chefjar: Easy Recipes for Busy Bees
Warm up with a comforting bowl of velvety butternut squash soup, perfect for the autumn weather.
The addition of coconut milk makes the soup creamy, and the final garnish of fresh herbs and seeds adds just the right amount of crunch.
It’s a satisfying, nourishing meal that’s both simple and full of flavor.
34. Turkey Wild Rice Soup by Skinny Spatula
This turkey wild rice soup features a savory blend of vegetables, wild rice, and turkey in a rich, flavorful broth.
I like how this soup looks and feels!
35. Sweet potato and carrot soup by Little Sunny Kitchen
Here is a pure autumn comfort in a bowl!
Roasted veggies bring a cozy depth of flavor, while milk gives it just the right creamy finish.
It’s the kind of soup that feels both nourishing and indulgent, especially when paired with crusty bread or croutons.
Super simple, naturally sweet, and perfect to cozy up with the weather.
36. Pumpkin Corn Chowder by Amanda’s Daily Home
Pumpkin corn chowder is that perfect blend of sweet, smoky, and creamy that just screams fall.
With crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and a touch of fresh sage, every spoonful feels warm and satisfying.
I would say this soup is cozy enough for weeknights but also is special enough for a weekend dinner.
Salad Recipes for Fall
37. Fall Harvest Salad by Ahead of Thyme
This fall harvest salad is the kind of colorful, feel-good dish that brings cozy and fresh together in one bowl.
Roasted butternut squash adds warmth and sweetness, while crisp apples and juicy pomegranate seeds bring a pop of brightness.
I love how easy it is to prep ahead and perfect for autumn lunches or holiday tables.
38. Healthy Autumn Chicken Salad by Natashas Kitchen
I love this autumn chicken salad that looks fresh, flavorful, and full of cozy seasonal touches.
It’s the kind of satisfying salad that eats like a meal but still feels light and vibrant.
Great for lunches, potlucks, or an easy fall dinner.
39. Roasted Pumpkin and Quinoa Salad Recipe by Omma’s Table
This quinoa and roasted pumpkin salad can be a total fall favorite—colorful, nourishing, and packed with flavor and texture in every bite.
You’ve got hearty roasted pumpkin, fluffy quinoa, sweet cranberries, crisp cabbage, and a sprinkle of pine nuts for crunch.
It’s one of those salads that feels just as comforting as it is vibrant.
It is great to serve warm or chilled, and is perfect for gatherings or weekday lunches.
40. Warm Roasted Pumpkin and Farro Salad by The Sidesmith
This warm roasted pumpkin farro salad is cozy, wholesome, and full of fall flavor.
It brings together nutty farro, sweet roasted pumpkin, crispy bacon, and sautéed spinach in the most satisfying way.
It’s hearty enough for a standalone lunch but also works beautifully as a seasonal side. Definitely one to keep on repeat as the weather cools down.
41. Brussels Sprouts Salad with Dried Cranberries by Food Jazz
Crunchy, savory, and just the right touch of sweet—this Brussels sprouts salad is everything you want in a fall side.
Shredded sprouts get tossed with crisp bacon, dried cranberries, walnuts, and a sprinkle of creamy feta.
It’s a fresh, colorful addition to your holiday table or weeknight dinner.
42. Spinach and Roasted Sweet Potato Salad by Taste Buds & Cravings
A delicious salad with roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, and a honey mustard dressing.
It’s a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tangy, with fresh spinach and is perfect for a filling side dish.
43. Apple Salad with Walnuts and Cranberries by RecipeTin Eats
This autumn apple salad is full of cozy contrast—crisp apples, juicy cranberries, creamy feta, and crunchy candied walnuts, all tossed with fresh greens and a zingy homemade dressing.
Every bite hits that sweet-salty-savory spot, making it one of those salads that actually feels satisfying.
Great as a holiday side or a light lunch when you’re craving something a little fresh, a little indulgent, and definitely not boring.
Fall Side Dishes Recipes
44. Cranberry Apple Pecan Wild Rice Pilaf by Food Blogs
This cranberry apple pecan wild rice pilaf is the kind of cozy side dish that quietly steals the show.
It’s layered with warm fall flavors from apple juice, herbs, cranberries, crisp apples, and buttery toasted pecans.
And not to mention the wild rice that adds an earthy chewiness that makes each bite feel substantial and a little rustic.
Perfect for Thanksgiving or any chilly evening that calls for something a little special.
45. Pumpkin cornbread by Sweet and Savory Meals Blog
Pumpkin cornbread baked with warm spices and topped with whipped cinnamon honey butter.
I think this pumpkin cornbread is one of those cozy fall bakes that feels like a warm hug—especially with that whipped cinnamon honey butter melting over the top.
Cozy, sweet, and perfect for fall dinners or holiday tables.
46. Rosemary Roasted Root Vegetables by Food & Style
A cozy fall side with sweet, tangy, and savory notes all in one bite.
I love how the sweet and tangy agrodolce glaze enhances the roasted root vegetables, giving them a perfect balance of flavors.
The caramelized edges and the earthy scent of rosemary make this dish the perfect fall comfort food!
47. Roasted Maple Glazed Carrots by Broke Bank Vegan
Maple glazed carrots are a simple and flavorful side dish perfect for fall.
These roasted carrots are perfectly caramelized, with a sweet and savory glaze that enhances their natural flavor.
A simple yet flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any meal!
48. Cheesy Baked Cauliflower Gratin by Molly Thompson
This cauliflower au gratin is a rich, cheesy side dish that combines tender cauliflower with a crispy, golden topping.
It’s a comforting, flavorful dish with a smooth texture and savory crunch, making it a perfect addition to fall or holiday meals.
49. Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potatoes by Stahlbush Island Farms Inc
Garlic Parmesan sweet potatoes are a savory and slightly sweet side dish with crispy edges and a melt-in-your-mouth interior.
Roasting with garlic and Parmesan gives the potatoes a golden, flavorful crust that’s perfectly balanced with the rich, nutty cheese.
It’s a great option for a cozy fall meal!
50. Couscous with Butternut Squash and Cranberries by CoolCooking
This couscous with squash and cranberries is a delightful and flavorful dish that pairs well with a variety of meals.
And I think that the combination of textures and the balance of sweet and tangy notes make it a great addition to your fall or holiday spread.
WRAPPING UP
From comforting stews to yummy fall salads, I think you have got a perfect mix of dinner recipe ideas to enjoy the cozy vibe of autumn.
These dishes bring all the cozy vibes, seasonal flavor, and satisfying comfort you’re craving this time of year.
And these recipes are perfect for weeknight dinners or fall get-togethers alike. I hope you find a few favorites to add to your fall dinner rotation!
Let me know which dish you’re most excited to try—I’d love to hear in the comments below!
