10 Recipes That Encompass the Best Flavors of Fall

Posted: October 12, 2021 3:07 pm

Fall is the time of the year when you crave comfort foods that fill your stomach and warm your soul. From hearty soups to comforting casserole dishes, this is the season to settle in at home with a warm dish. Here are 10 of the best fall-inspired comfort food recipes to try for dinner this week.

Italian Pot Roast

Try an Italian take on a traditional pot roast with this delicious recipe. What makes this recipe unique is the addition of pancetta, tomato paste, and red wine. The celery and carrots add a healthy dose of vegetables. You can serve this roast and vegetable over egg noodles or mashed potatoes. Or make it a true Italian meal by serving it over creamy polenta. Do not forget to enjoy this dish with a good quality bottle of Italian red wine.

Creamy Chicken Orzo

This creamy chicken orzo pasta dish will please even the pickiest eaters. The simple dish includes chicken breasts, orzo, garlic, and onion. Half and half and parmesan contribute to the creamy texture while lemon juice adds a bit of zip. You can also add chopped carrots if you would like a serving of vegetables in this one-pot dish. Serve this dish with a simple green salad and crusty bread for the complete fall meal.

Baked Macaroni and Cheese

What list of comfort food is complete without homemade macaroni and cheese? This baked homemade mac and cheese is a dish that both adults and children will devour. Sharp cheddar and gruyere cheeses combine to deliver this creamy goodness. Be sure to use block cheese rather than the pre-shredded variety. Because the pre-shredded cheese is coated, it does not melt as uniformly and easily in the oven. The panko crumbs add a layer of crunch and texture to the top of the macaroni. If you want to add a bit more heft to this dish, consider mixing in cubed chicken breast, ham, or broccoli.

Baked Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs

For a healthier take on beefy meatballs that still provides a flavor explosion, be sure to try these baked teriyaki chicken meatballs. The homemade teriyaki sauce could not be easier to throw together. Baking these meatballs in a mini muffin pan ensures that the juices do not escape, keeping them moist and delicious. Serve these meatballs over brown rice and steamed broccoli for a nutritious and tasty meal. You can get this meal on the table in about 30 minutes, making it a great choice for those busy weeknights.

Pumpkin Turkey Chili

What screams fall more than a big pot of pumpkin turkey chili? Ground turkey combines with kidney beans, yellow onion, garlic, green bell pepper, diced tomatoes, and jalapeno pepper along with the classic chili spices. The addition of pumpkin puree contributes to the creamy texture while also boosting the vitamin A content in this recipe. Top each serving with a tablespoon of sour cream and a sprinkling of chopped cilantro. This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread.

Pecan Crusted Pork Chops with Apple Chutney

Lean on the best tastes of fall with these pecan crusted pork chops with an apple chutney. Simply dredge the chops in an egg wash and chopped pecans before searing and baking. The chutney includes your choice of gala or fuji apples, shallots, brown sugar, whole grain mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and salt. You will love this chutney so much that you will want to use it on all of your roasted poultry dishes. The pork chops and chutney go well with wild rice and the steamed vegetable of your choice.

Slow Cooker Pumpkin Risotto

The fall is when most people pull out their slow cooker and let it do the cooking. This slow cooker pumpkin risotto recipe is a great way to break it in for the season. Do not be scared off by the idea of roasting a sugar pumpkin. This process could not be easier. In addition to the rice and pumpkin, the risotto also boasts onion, garlic, and sage, offering up a beautiful explosion of fall flavors. At less than 200 calories per serving, this risotto is an ideal comfort food if you are also watching your waistline.

Chicken Pot Pie

You cannot let the fall season pass you by without baking up a traditional chicken pot pie. This pot pie is bursting with veggies and fresh herbs that mix with the creamy base. Feel free to use a prepared pie crust if you do not have the time or the inclination to make a homemade version. You can also substitute turkey for the chicken if you need a way to use up those Thanksgiving leftovers. This is another great recipe that freezes beautifully, making it a good option to double to save one for later.

Osso Buco

Need an elegant dish to serve at your fall dinner party? This osso buco recipe will not disappoint. This classic Milanese dish consists of braised veal shanks, wine, broth, tomatoes, and a cornucopia of aromatics such as carrot, onion, and celery. While it may seem simple, the flavors meld together to deliver a complex and hearty dish. You can serve the osso buco over risotto if you are aiming to keep with the traditional Italian preparation. A caesar salad and a loaf of Italian bread will carry the theme to fruition.

Baked Ziti

This creamy and decadent baked ziti recipe is perfect for that cozy Sunday night at home with the family. This recipe is also forgiving, allowing you to substitute a variety of meats or pasta shapes. How can you go wrong with a combination of mozzarella, parmesan, and ricotta cheese? This meal is the ultimate indulgence. You will not miss summer one bit once you get comfortable with a heaping help of this hearty and flavorful dish.

These 10 recipes are the perfect dinners to celebrate the arrival of cooler temperatures and cozy nights spent at home.

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