27 memorable fall recipes you’ll wish you’d tried last year

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Autumn is here, and it’s the perfect time for memorable fall recipes. If you’ve ever looked back on a season and wished you’d tried something new in the kitchen, this is your chance to change that. These 27 recipes feature easy yet flavorful meals perfect for busy weeknights and cozy weekends. Whether cooking for one or hosting a gathering, these dishes offer convenience and taste. Don’t let another fall go by without adding these recipes to your rotation.

A pot of creamy Italian sausage soup with a wooden spoon.
Creamy Italian Sausage Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Corn Soup

Two bowls of chicken corn soup garnished with parsley.
Chicken Corn Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This one-pot Chicken Corn Soup will warm you up in under an hour, making it a perfect choice for those chilly fall evenings. The soup offers comfort and balance with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a well-seasoned broth. You won’t be spending much time on clean-up, thanks to the single-pot method. Ideal for spontaneous meal planning, it relies on commonly found pantry items. The chicken and vegetable mix promises a wholesome, comforting experience.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Corn Soup

Crock Pot Taco Soup

A bowl of crock pot taco soup topped with sour cream and cilantro.
Crock Pot Taco Soup. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Set it and forget it with this Crock Pot Taco Soup, a recipe you’ll wish you’d discovered last autumn. Spend just 20 minutes on prep, and let your slow cooker do the rest. Ground beef, spices, and basic pantry items come together in a bowl of comforting warmth. You can go about your day while your slow cooker does the work, making this an exceptionally practical dinner option. A repeated favorite, this soup is both simple and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Taco Soup

Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Chicken with creamy mushroom sauce in a pan.
Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce is your answer for a stress-free fall evening. Cooked in a single pan, it streamlines both preparation and clean-up. Chicken thighs cook quickly, making this a 30-minute meal that’s well-suited for your busy week. A mushroom sauce adds depth without complex steps. The simplicity and comfort of this dish make it a practical choice for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

A spoonful of soup in a white pot.
Creamy Italian Sausage Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This comforting Creamy Italian Sausage Soup is the perfect addition to your fall recipe collection. In just 30 minutes and with a single pot, you’ll create a harmonious blend of Italian sausage, cream cheese, and other staple ingredients. The ease of this recipe makes it a repeat favorite, and since it utilizes common pantry items, it’s also incredibly practical. Comfort and simplicity are at the forefront of this one-pot meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon

Roasted butternut squash with cauliflower and bacon and dollops of sour cream with a spoon.
Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

As the leaves begin to fall, this oven-baked dish offers a seasonal array of butternut squash, cauliflower, and bacon. It requires minimal prep, and the short bake time ensures it fits into even the busiest schedules. A homemade dressing and wilted spinach add uncomplicated layers of flavor. Plus, clean-up is a cinch with just one pan. A perfect fall choice, this dish balances practicality with comforting flavors.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon

Creamy Dijon Chicken

A pan of creamy dijon chicken with a spatula.
Creamy Dijon Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

In 30 minutes, you can prepare this Creamy Dijon Chicken, a one-pan dish that encapsulates the essence of a cozy fall dinner. With a blend of creamy Dijon sauce, fresh spinach, and crumbled bacon, the meal brings both ease and comfort to the table. The quick cooking time is ideal for weeknights, but the dish is also elegant enough for special gatherings. The one-pan method streamlines cooking and cleaning, making this recipe remarkably practical.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Dijon Chicken

Pumpkin Soup with Canned Pumpkin

Bowls of pumpkin soup with sprigs of rosemary.
Pumpkin Soup with Canned Pumpkin. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Embrace the spirit of the season with this Pumpkin Soup, a must-try from last fall that’s ready in just 40 minutes. Utilizing canned pumpkin accelerates prep time, while the four-step process simplifies cooking. It’s the perfect last-minute comfort meal that fills your home with the scent of autumn spices. This one-pot wonder is both heartwarming and convenient, making it a fall staple.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Soup with Canned Pumpkin

Sausage Curry

Sausage curry in a skillet garnished with herbs.
Sausage Curry. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Sausage Curry is a one-pan meal that adds a touch of warmth to any fall evening. Curry spices blend seamlessly with sausages and an assortment of vegetables, creating a comforting dish in under 30 minutes. Its straightforward method requires minimal kitchen equipment and preparation, ideal for a quick weeknight dinner. Clean-up is also simplified, making this dish a practical option for your busy life.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Curry

Cauliflower Cheddar Cheese Bacon Soup

Cauliflower cheddar cheese bacon soup in a pot with a spoon.
Cauliflower Cheddar Cheese Bacon Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

With a 30-minute cooking time, this Cauliflower Cheddar Cheese Bacon Soup is perfect for those bustling fall nights. One pot is all you need to bring together cauliflower, chicken broth, heavy cream, and other accessible ingredients. The short cooking time and straightforward approach make it a reliable choice when time is tight. Layers of comforting flavors coalesce without added complexity, making it a fall favorite.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Cheddar Cheese Bacon Soup

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Loaded broccoli cauliflower casserole in a baking dish garnished with green onions.
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Your fall dinners just got better with this Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole. Assembling frozen broccoli, cauliflower, cheese sauce, and bacon takes just 30 minutes, and the oven does the rest. Easily found ingredients mean no special trip to the grocery store is needed. The one-dish nature of this recipe simplifies clean-up. It’s a hearty, practical solution for dinner, especially when time is limited.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms

Cauliflower risotto in a pan.
Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Experience comfort and simplicity with this Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms, another fall recipe to add to your list. This one-pot meal takes just 30 minutes and offers a unique twist on traditional comfort food. A combination of seasonings adds a sense of sophistication without any complicated steps. Both preparation and clean-up are simplified, making it well-suited for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms

Cabbage and Sausage

A plate of cabbage and sausages with a fork.
Cabbage and sausage. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Cabbage and Sausage one-pan dish is a fall favorite. Preparing and cooking takes less than 30 minutes, making it a convenient option for cozy autumn dinners. The hearty sausage flavors pair perfectly with the cabbage. The simplicity of this dish doesn’t compromise on taste, making it a seasonal gem you’ll wish you had discovered last fall. Plus, the one-pan method makes clean-up a breeze, leaving you more time to enjoy those crisp, fall evenings.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage

Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Creamy ground beef skillet with cauliflower rice garnished with fresh herbs with a fork.
Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Nothing says comfort like a warm, hearty meal in the fall. This dish takes only 30 minutes to prepare and features a delectable mix of ground beef, cheddar cheese, cauliflower rice, and mushrooms. The one-pan cooking and easy-to-find ingredients make it a practical choice for those busy autumn evenings. Its comforting, rich flavors are perfect for fall and are bound to make you wonder why you didn’t try it last year. Plus, the single pan used means quick and easy clean-up, allowing you more time to savor the season.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Spinach Chicken Bake

A serving spoon serving of creamy spinach chicken bake.
Spinach Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

When the air turns crisp, it’s time to indulge in dishes like this Spinach Chicken Bake. The combination of chicken thighs, spinach, cream cheese, and mozzarella creates a hearty, comforting meal perfect for fall. With a cooking time of just 30 minutes, this one-pan dish is an excellent choice for those chilly evenings when you crave something satisfying. Its simplicity and flavorful profile make it a memorable fall dish you’ll wish you had experienced last year. Best of all, the one-pan method simplifies cleaning, giving you more time to enjoy the autumn atmosphere.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Chicken Bake

Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

Creamy sun dried tomato chicken served on a plate.
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Fall evenings are made even better with comfort food like this Sun Dried Tomato Chicken dish. The luxurious combination of chicken thighs, creamy sauce, and sun-dried tomatoes feels like a hug in a pan. In just 30 minutes, this easy-to-follow recipe delivers a culinary experience that’s perfect for the season. It’s the kind of meal that captures the essence of fall and will have you regretting not discovering it sooner. Using just one pan, this dish also ensures that you spend less time cleaning and more time soaking up the autumn vibes.
Get the Recipe: Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Sausage and veggies sheet pan dinner with a spoon.
Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

As the days grow shorter, this Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner shines as an ideal fall meal. Roasted sausage pairs beautifully with an array of colorful autumn vegetables for a balanced, hearty dish. With a total cooking time of just 30 minutes and a single sheet pan used, this meal is as convenient as it is comforting. The ease and flavor of this one-pan wonder will make you wish you’d tried it last fall. Plus, the minimal clean-up means more time to enjoy those fall evenings.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Keto Zuppa Toscana

A bowl of keto zuppa Toscana with a spoon in it.
Keto Zuppa Toscana. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Fall is the season for warm soups, and this Keto Zuppa Toscana delivers comfort in every spoonful. This low-carb twist on a classic soup combines sausage, cream, and spices for a rich and hearty meal perfect for autumn. With just an hour of cooking time, it’s a practical yet indulgent option for quick weeknight dinners. Once you taste it, you’ll wonder how you ever went through a fall season without it. Its comforting qualities make it a perfect addition to your fall recipe collection.
Get the Recipe: Keto Zuppa Toscana

Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts

Creamy chicken thighs with artichoke hearts in a pan.
Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

The rich flavors of this dish make it an excellent choice for enjoying the cozy atmosphere of fall. In 30 minutes, you can enjoy Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts, a one-pan meal that simplifies cooking and cleaning. The unique combination of artichokes and lemon juice brings a touch of sophistication to your autumn dinner table. It’s a comforting, savory option you’ll regret not adding to your fall repertoire last year. The dish’s simplicity also allows you to fully enjoy the season without spending all night in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts

Fried Cabbage with Bacon

A pan full of bacon and cabbage with a wooden spoon.
Fried Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Cabbage and bacon come together in this quick, 25-minute one-pan recipe, offering comfort food that’s perfect for crisp fall evenings. The dish features a rich, savory blend of flavors that are as comforting as a warm blanket. It’s easy to prepare and even easier to clean up, making it an ideal choice for a busy fall schedule. The delicious combination of cabbage and bacon will make you wish you had this recipe in your fall lineup last year. Plus, it’s an easy way to incorporate seasonal vegetables into a hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Creamy Tuscan chicken in a skillet.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.


This Creamy Tuscan Chicken is an ideal fall dish, capturing the essence of comfort food while being incredibly easy to make. In just 40 minutes, this one-pan recipe brings together spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy sauce for a hearty meal that’s perfect for autumn. The well-balanced flavors and richness of the dish make it a comforting fall meal you’ll regret not having tried sooner. Plus, the one-pan cooking method means fewer dishes, allowing you to enjoy more of the season’s pleasures.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

A casserole dish with meat and spinach in it.
Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This casserole combines ground beef, cauliflower rice, spinach, and cheddar cheese for a harmonious blend of flavors perfect for fall evenings. In just 30 minutes, you can prepare a filling and practical meal that captures the warmth and comfort that make autumn special. The straightforward steps make it an ideal recipe for weeknight dinners, reducing your time in the kitchen. This dish brings the cozy comfort perfect for the season, a dish you’ll wish you had tried last autumn. It’s a one-pan wonder that effortlessly combines convenience and hearty flavors.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

Creamy Garlic Chicken

A white skillet of creamy garlic chicken garnished with herbs.
Creamy Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

With a cooking time of 30 minutes, this Creamy Garlic Chicken is a practical choice for those looking to assemble a complete meal quickly. The single-pan method simplifies cooking and clean-up, making it an appealing choice for busy weeknights. Its comforting flavors make it a meal fit for cozy autumn evenings, one you’ll regret not having tried sooner. The recipe is versatile enough for both casual dinners and special occasions. Simple, quick, and minimal on dishes, this recipe embodies the ease of fall cooking.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

A serving of Philly cheese steak casserole being pulled up from a pan.
Philly Cheese Steak Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This recipe brings the flavors of a classic sandwich into a filling and warm dinner that’s perfect for fall. With sirloin steak, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and cheese, the recipe captures the hearty essence of autumn comfort food. It requires basic kitchen tools, adding to its practicality for busy weeknights. A creative twist on a traditional favorite, this casserole will make you wish you’d incorporated it into last year’s fall meal rotation. The dish is filling, balanced, and exceedingly simple to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

Fajita Baked Chicken

Cheesy chicken fajita bake in a baking pan.
Fajita Baked Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This recipe is a flavorful choice for fall, ready in just 30 minutes. Spiced chicken breasts are adorned with cream cheese, mini sweet peppers, and mozzarella, offering a comforting yet zesty experience perfect for a seasonal dinner. Prepared in a single pan, both cooking and clean-up are uncomplicated. It’s versatile enough for both casual family meals and small gatherings, encapsulating the essence of fall with every bite. You’ll wish you’d added this flavorful dish to your autumn repertoire last year.
Get the Recipe: Fajita Baked Chicken

Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Bowl of instant pot butter chicken atop cauliflower rice in a bowl.
Instant Pot Butter Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Indian-inspired dish offers an exotic flare to your fall dinner table. Thanks to the Instant Pot, this decadent meal takes under 40 minutes to prepare. Its balanced blend of spices and creamy textures makes it a comforting dish you’ll wish you’d added to last year’s fall dinner lineup. The recipe is hassle-free and impressive, fitting for weeknights or special occasions. Its blend of practicality and robust flavors makes it a must-try for the season.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

Spoon scooping up jalapeño popper casserole from a baking dish.
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Heat up your fall meals with this spicy yet comforting casserole. With shredded chicken thighs, bacon, cream cheese, and jalapeños, this dish offers a unique take on autumn comfort food. It’s easy to follow and quick to prepare, ideal for those busy fall evenings. The creamy base offsets the heat of the jalapeños, making it a standout dish you’ll regret not trying last season. It’s a perfect blend of richness and spice, making for an exciting and satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

Sweet and Spicy Bacon and Turkey Chili

Sweet and spicy bacon and turkey chili garnished with avocado slices, sour cream, and cilantro.
Sweet and Spicy Bacon and Turkey Chili. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Whip up this Sweet and Spicy Bacon and Turkey Chili for a multi-dimensional comfort food experience. Perfect for the crisp autumn evenings, the unique blend of sweet, savory, and spicy elements makes this a memorable fall recipe you’ll wish you tried last year. This one-pot wonder simplifies cooking and cleaning, making it a practical choice for busy weeknights. With just over an hour of cooking, it’s a protein-packed, hearty meal that satisfies. The combination of bacon and turkey offers a delightful twist on traditional chili recipes.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Spicy Bacon and Turkey Chili

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