If you’re tired of the usual chicken-based meals, you’re in the right place. These hearty fall dinner ideas for meals without chicken are perfect for when you crave something a little heartier or just… NOT chicken.
These savory fall dinner recipes are easy to make, packed with flavor, and ideal for weeknight family dinners or monthly meal plan ideas. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or yourself, these recipes bring all the fall comfort food vibes you crave.
This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through an affiliate link, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. You can see my full disclaimer here.
26 Hearty Beef Autumn Dinner Ideas
When it comes to fall comfort food, beef is a fantastic option for creating rich, satisfying meals that are full of flavor. Whether it’s slow-cooked in a stew or seared to perfection, beef dishes have a way of bringing warmth to the table on a crisp autumn night.
These hearty beef dinner ideas are ideal for enjoying the essence of fall. From comforting classics to new family favorites, these recipes are sure to make your fall evenings extra special.
This pan-seared filet mignon is a mouthwatering option for fall dinners, combining tender beef with a rich shallot-mustard gravy that feels perfect for chilly weather. With its savory, umami-packed sauce, it's an ideal recipe to savor during cozy autumn evenings.
This Crock Pot Tamale Pie brings the cozy flavors of chili and cornbread together in one satisfying dish, making it a hearty option for autumn dinners. With tender ground beef, black beans, and a cheesy cornbread crust, it's a simple yet delicious way to warm up on a crisp fall evening.
This hearty slow cooker goulash brings all the cozy vibes you crave for fall dinners, combining tender pasta, seasoned beef, and melted cheese into one comforting dish. Let the slow cooker do the work, and enjoy a flavorful meal that’s ideal for chilly weather family gatherings.
Savor tender beef tips slowly cooked in a rich Merlot sauce infused with garlic, instant coffee, and savory gravy mixes. This dish delivers melt-in-your-mouth beef perfect for cozy dinners, served over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles to soak up every bit of that luscious sauce.
Warm up chilly weather nights with this easy stovetop skillet lasagna—packed with tender beef, cheesy tomato sauce, and hearty noodles, all in just 30 minutes. This comforting one-pan dish is ideal for busy fall dinners, delivering all the classic lasagna flavors with far less fuss.
This Instant Pot unstuffed cabbage rolls recipe gives you all the comforting flavors of classic cabbage rolls in a fraction of the time. Ideal for easy autumn dinners, it combines savory beef, tender cabbage, and a touch of sweetness for a hearty one-pot meal that’s ready in just 35 minutes.
This ground beef zucchini casserole is a hearty fall dinner that blends savory layers of ground beef, zucchini, tomatoes, and melted mozzarella cheese. Ideal for cool weather evenings, it's a satisfying, low-carb comfort dish that the whole family can dig into without feeling too heavy.
These Asian steak bites with potatoes are slow-cooked to melt-in-your-mouth perfection, infused with a rich, savory-sweet sauce featuring soy, honey, and garlic. Combined with tender baby potatoes and fresh asparagus, this all-in-one dish delivers bold flavor and incredible ease for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Warm up those chilly autumn evenings with this homemade Salisbury steak, drenched in a rich mushroom gravy. This comforting classic delivers a hearty and satisfying punch, perfect for fall dinners that need both flavor and simplicity.
This One Pot Lasagna Soup is a cozy fall dinner, combining hearty beef, tender noodles, and a rich, garlicky tomato broth all in under an hour. With gooey mozzarella, Parmesan, and a dollop of creamy ricotta, it’s an irresistible twist on classic lasagna perfect for chilly weather nights.
Tender beef cubes and beans are simmered to perfection in a rich, aromatic tikka masala sauce, giving you layers of deep, comforting flavors. This fusion recipe blends traditional Indian spices with a Western twist, making it ideal for spicing up your weeknight dinner rotation.
This fall dinner brings melt-in-your-mouth pot roast infused with a rich, oniony gravy that’s perfect for slow cooking. Just five ingredients – beef, carrots, potatoes, broth, and onion soup mix – combine to create a cozy, set-it-and-forget-it meal that’s ideal for autumn evenings.
This hearty Instant Pot Salisbury Steak is ideal for cool-weather comfort, featuring juicy beef patties smothered in rich mushroom gravy. It’s a satisfying fall dinner that’s perfect for warming up on those chilly evenings.
This stovetop chili is a rich blend of tender ground beef, warming spices, and a hint of cinnamon that creates a satisfying kick. It’s quick to prep, all comes together in one pot, and can be customized with your favorite toppings for an easy weeknight winner.
This autumn dinner features a comforting cottage pie loaded with hidden veggies and a creamy sweet potato mash that’s rich in flavor and nutrition. Perfect for cozy fall evenings, it’s a satisfying meal that combines hearty beef with fiber-packed beans, making it a wholesome twist on a classic favorite.
This beef goulash recipe is a heartwarming autumn meal that slow-simmers tender beef, potatoes, and colorful peppers in a smoky paprika broth. It's the perfect hearty stew for chilly weather, packed with rich flavors and a comforting touch of Eastern European tradition.
One-pan Beef Stroganoff brings savory ground beef, tender egg noodles, and a luscious mushroom cream sauce together in a single skillet—ready to satisfy your craving for comfort without the extra dishes. Quick to make and rich in flavor, it's the perfect cozy dinner for busy nights.
Warm up your autumn dinners with this rich slow-cooker beef, vegetable, and barley stew that slowly infuses deep flavors into tender meat and wholesome grains. A cozy, all-in-one dish that will make your home smell amazing and satisfy your craving for comforting autumn meals.
This cozy shepherd’s pie is packed with comforting flavors and gooey cheese, making it an ideal dish to warm you up during chilly weather. With tender meat and vegetables under a creamy mashed potato blanket, it’s the ultimate fall dinner for a satisfying, hearty bite.
Savor the rich flavors of tender beef slow-cooked with sweet pumpkin, earthy parsnips, and carrots, creating a comforting autumnal dish that’s wholesome and satisfying. This paleo-friendly stew is a fuss-free way to enjoy a nutrient-packed meal bursting with cozy, seasonal tastes.
Looking for an easy autumn dinner that delivers comfort in every bite? This Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni combines creamy pasta, savory ground beef, and melty cheddar, creating a nostalgic and satisfying meal that's ready in under 30 minutes.
Warm up during chilly weather with this Italian-style chili – packed with rich beef, hearty beans, and a blend of Italian herbs, it's a comforting twist perfect for autumn dinners. Serve it up with a slice of crusty bread and watch as mascarpone melts into each spoonful, adding a creamy touch to this cozy fall favorite.
This stuffed pepper casserole combines tender beef, bell peppers, and savory, saucy rice into a cheesy, baked comfort meal that’s ready in no time. With just a skillet and a baking dish, you can enjoy all the classic flavors of stuffed peppers without the fuss of actually stuffing them—ideal for busy weeknights!
This Dutch-style beef stew is a must-try for autumn dinners, featuring a unique blend of vinegar, juniper berries, and gingerbread to create a beautifully tender dish with a comforting tangy-sweet twist. Let the rich flavors simmer slowly for hours, and pair with crusty bread or mashed potatoes for the ultimate cozy meal.
This Egg Roll in a Bowl recipe is a quick, veggie-packed fall dinner that’s bursting with classic Asian-inspired flavors—all without the hassle of rolling egg rolls. Perfect for those cool-weather evenings, it's a one-pan wonder that delivers warmth, comfort, and adaptability to suit different diets.
Tender chunks of beef mingle with soft, sweet potatoes and hearty vegetables in a slow-cooked dish that promises rich, comforting flavors in every bite. The long simmer time yields a melt-in-your-mouth texture, making this stew a perfect companion for cozy evenings.
9 Delicious Fall Supper Ideas
If you’re looking to bring a touch of variety to your autumn dinner table, these delicious fall supper ideas feature seafood, lamb, and venison recipes that are sure to impress. Each of these options brings something unique to the table, from the delicate flavors of seafood to the rich, robust taste of lamb and venison.
Get cozy with this one-pan Cajun Salmon Orzo—an autumn dinner that fuses creamy orzo with spicy, perfectly cooked salmon. Rich Cajun flavors and the holy trinity of aromatics make it a comfort dish that effortlessly warms those crisp fall evenings.
This creamy tomato shrimp pasta is a cozy choice for fall dinners, blending juicy shrimp with a rich, goat cheese-infused tomato sauce for a satisfying yet not-too-heavy meal. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a great way to bring comforting warmth to cool-weather evenings without spending hours in the kitchen.
Whip up this creamy, one-pot hot dog pasta for a nostalgic twist on comfort food that’s sure to be a family favorite. Featuring juicy hot dog slices, tender pasta, and a creamy sauce loaded with veggies, this quick dish will have even the pickiest eaters asking for seconds.
This autumn meal brings a Mediterranean flair to your table with tender cod, pan-fried and served on fluffy focaccia, all soaked in a rich, garlicky tomato sauce. Each bite offers a comforting mix of savory, herby goodness that makes it ideal for cozy fall dinners, whether you’re entertaining guests or just indulging yourself.
This Moroccan lamb tagine, simmered in a slow cooker, bursts with warm autumn flavors thanks to the rich ras el hanout spice blend, tender lamb, and sweet bites of apricot and dates. Ideal for cool weather, this hearty stew offers a comforting escape from chilly evenings and pairs beautifully with couscous or quinoa for a satisfying fall dinner.
This baked salmon recipe combines tender fillets coated in a rich lemon butter sauce with a vibrant, homemade basil pesto. Quick to prepare and packed with fresh, zesty flavors, it's a simple yet elegant dish perfect for both weeknights and special dinners.
Sous Vide Venison is the ultimate fall dinner for cool-weather comfort, featuring tender venison cooked to perfection in a red wine and juniper berry infusion. Perfectly paired with your favorite autumn sides, this dish is rich, earthy, and brings a restaurant-quality meal right to your cozy table.
This Turkish Lamb Stew with Chickpeas combines tender lamb, creamy chickpeas, and sweet pearl onions in a richly seasoned, slow-cooked dish that’s perfect for a cozy meal. Serve it alongside fluffy rice or warm flatbread to soak up every flavorful drop.
This cast iron skillet salmon with maple Dijon sauce is an ideal pick for those crisp autumn dinners. With a delightful balance of savory mustard and the subtle sweetness of maple syrup, it’s a quick way to bring cozy fall flavors to your dinner table.
27 Cozy Fall Dinner Ideas With Pork
Pork is a versatile and flavorful option for creating cozy fall dinners that the whole family will love. From tender roasts to savory skillet meals, pork can be prepared in so many delicious ways. These pork dinner ideas are perfect for those cool evenings when you want something flavorful, satisfying, and easy to prepare.
This one-pan sausage and butternut squash skillet combines savory Italian sausage, sweet apples, and hearty squash to create a comforting autumn dinner that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Bursting with cozy flavors and aromatic sage, it’s an easy way to enjoy the best of fall in every bite.
This creamy Italian Sausage Soup blends savory crumbled sausage, aromatic garlic, and tender pasta in a rich tomato broth, creating a deeply satisfying comfort meal. Customize it with your favorite vegetables and enjoy it with crusty bread for a cozy, one-pot dinner that’s both easy and flavorful.
Warm up your autumn evenings with this savory sausage and butter bean casserole, brimming with smoky paprika and tender vegetables. This easy one-pot dish is an ideal autumn dinner, offering comfort in every spoonful without breaking the bank.
This Apple Mustard Pork Tenderloin is a delightful blend of tangy mustard and sweet apple cider, roasted to tender perfection in just over 30 minutes. It’s an ideal autumn dinner, combining the comforting flavors of fall for a cozy, satisfying meal on those chilly evenings.
Pumpkin Carbonara puts a seasonal twist on the classic Italian dish, combining creamy pumpkin puree, crispy bacon, and nutmeg for a warm, comforting flavor. This easy-to-make pasta delivers cozy fall vibes, perfect for when you crave a rich, savory meal without much fuss.
Warm up on chilly evenings with this hearty ham and bean soup – packed with tender northern beans, savory ham, and a hint of spices, it's the ultimate cozy autumn dinner. Quick to prep and brimming with classic flavors, it’s ideal for fall meals that bring comfort to the whole family.
This savory German onion pie, Zwiebelkuchen, is an autumn meal that brings together caramelized onions, smoky bacon, and a creamy filling in a crisp crust – ideal for a cozy evening. Its comforting blend of rich flavors makes it a perfect companion for the crisp days of fall.
This spicy Greek Spetzofai is loaded with smoky sausage, sweet bell peppers, and a rich tomato sauce with a hint of harissa for an irresistible kick. It's a quick comfort dish with bold flavors that makes any meal feel like a cozy Mediterranean gathering.
These maple apple pork chops bring together tender pork and a luscious maple-brandy sauce for an irresistible autumn dinner. With sweet apple chunks and a creamy finish, it's a cozy, flavor-packed dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
These skillet pork chops, paired with caramelized apples and onions, make for an irresistible sweet-and-savory dish that captures the essence of chilly autumn evenings. The warm spice blend of cinnamon and chili powder perfectly complements the tender pork, making it an ideal fall dinner that's both hearty and comforting.
This cheesy pierogi casserole is a cozy fall dinner that layers creamy mashed potatoes, gooey cheese, and tender pasta for the ultimate comfort food fix. Perfect for chilly weather, this dish will have everyone coming back for seconds of its rich, comforting goodness.
Savor the rich, savory flavor of roasted acorn squash stuffed with a mouthwatering mix of seasoned sausage, quinoa, and dried cranberries, topped off with aromatic herbs. This cozy dish is the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and nutty, making it an impressive yet approachable meal for the crisp fall season.
These pan-seared pork chops, paired with fried cinnamon apples, capture the coziness of autumn dinners, blending savory chops with the comforting sweetness of caramelized apples. It's an easy yet special meal, perfect for when crisp fall evenings call for something quick and delicious that feels like a true seasonal treat.
Honey Glazed Pork Chops with Homemade Apple Chutney & Mashed Potatoes
These honey-glazed pork chops, paired with a tangy apple chutney, make for an irresistible autumn dinner that blends sweetness with a hint of spice. Perfect for cozy fall evenings, this dish combines tender, flavorful meat with comforting sides to create a memorable seasonal meal.
Cozy up during chilly weather with this creamy Italian Mac and Cheese, featuring a rich blend of four Italian cheeses – mozzarella, provolone, fontina, and parmesan – baked to perfection with crispy pancetta and golden breadcrumbs. It's a decadent fall dinner that offers the warmth of classic comfort food with an Italian twist.
This vibrant stew brings together Trader Joe's holiday vegetable hash, savory sausage, and tender kale, creating a flavor-packed, satisfying meal in under 30 minutes. With a touch of curry powder and a hint of sweetness from brown sugar, this cozy dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner with crusty bread on the side.
This sheet pan dinner combines tender pork chops with caramelized sweet potatoes, crisp apples, and onions for a satisfying all-in-one meal. With a hint of maple sweetness, it’s an easy recipe that brings together a balance of flavors that are perfect for a cozy family night in.
This collard greens soup with ham and beans is a cozy autumn dinner that brings together rich, smoky flavors with the satisfying textures of tender greens and hearty beans. Let your slow cooker do the work, and enjoy a warming dish that’s perfect for those crisp fall evenings when all you need is a comforting bowl of Southern charm.
Warm up chilly weather evenings with this hearty slow-cooker combo of smoked sausage, tender cabbage, and aromatic leeks – an easy one-pot fall dinner that practically cooks itself. Comforting, rustic, and full of flavor, it’s the perfect dish for when you want minimal prep and maximum coziness.
These creamy Dijon pork chops come together in just 30 minutes, blending tender pork with a luscious mustard, white wine, and herb sauce. The nutty browned butter and fresh spinach make every bite deeply savory, while the rich flavors are perfect for an easy yet gourmet weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Embrace the flavors of the forest with this autumn meal, where savory sausage, earthy mushrooms, and a splash of wine come together in a rich, comforting pasta dish. Perfect for those crisp evenings, this Pasta alla Boscaiola will add a rustic, woodland vibe to your fall dinners.
These Apple Cinnamon Pork Chops with Butternut Squash are a cozy blend of savory and sweet, making them an irresistible autumn dinner choice. The warm spices, crisp apples, and tender squash create a comforting one-pan meal perfect for chilly evenings.
This one-pan wonder brings together tender potatoes, juicy tomatoes, and savory sausage, all kissed by the flavors of rosemary and garlic. It's an easy and delicious way to fill your kitchen with a comforting aroma and your plate with satisfying flavor.
These sausage-stuffed acorn squash bowls are a cozy autumn dinner, featuring roasted squash brimming with savory Italian sausage, veggies, and a touch of parmesan. Perfect for those crisp fall evenings, this dish combines rustic flavors with an impressive presentation to make your family meals extra special.
This hearty gnocchi and sausage soup brings together smoky kielbasa, tender gnocchi, and a blend of fresh veggies, making it the ultimate comfort for chilly weather nights. Cooked in an Instant Pot, it’s a creamy, cozy one-pot wonder that’s ready in just 45 minutes for the perfect autumn dinner.
This one-pan autumn dinner of mustard pork tenderloin brings together tender, juicy pork coated in a savory Dijon mustard sauce. Ready in just about 30 minutes, it's a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy fall evening.
Cozy up with these warm, flaky Plantation Ham Pinwheels – a quick fall dinner that brings comforting ham and buttery biscuit goodness together with an easy, creamy gravy. Perfect for using up leftover ham, these pinwheels are just what a chilly autumn evening needs to turn simple ingredients into pure comfort food.
Delicious Side Dish Ideas to Serve With Fall Meals
A hearty main course deserves an equally delicious side dish. Here are a few easy dinner recipes for side dishes that pair perfectly with fall suppers:
- Roasted Vegetables: Use fall favorites like butternut squash, sweet potatoes, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts. Toss with seasonings and oil and roast at about 425°F on a sheet pan for 20-30 minutes. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and makes them an easy, delicious side.
- Warm Grain Salad: A mix of quinoa, roasted root veggies, and a tangy vinaigrette makes for a perfect autumn-inspired side. Try some of the fall salads from my fall meatless meals recipe list.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a classic comfort food and pair well with almost any fall dinner recipe.
- Crispy Baked Kale Chips: If you’re looking for something light and crunchy, baked kale chips are a quick and healthy option to serve alongside hearty dishes.
- Buttery Herb Smashed Potatoes: These rustic potatoes are smashed and roasted with butter, garlic, and herbs for a comforting, crispy side.
- Maple-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and savory, carrots glazed with maple syrup make the perfect accompaniment to any hearty fall dish.
More Simple Meal Inspiration
56 Delicious Crockpot Soups for Fall (Perfect Cozy Recipes for Crisp Days)
Simple Monthly Meal Planning (How To Make It Work For You)
Meals For November – A Hearty Menu of Cozy Dinner Ideas
Quick Food Prep Routine for a Week of Easier Meals
Struggling with meal planning? My Essential Meal Planning Printables are here to save you time, money, and sanity. Whether you’re planning meals for a week or a month, these pages are designed to fit your lifestyle. Say goodbye to wasted food and hello to easy, stress-free meal planning!
My Picks for Must-Have Fall Cooking Tools
I like to keep my cooking supply list pretty simple. But there are a few things that are either essential or nice to have, and here’s my list:
Crockpot – You probably already have one of these. But if your current model is small, you might want to pick up a larger slow cooker for making bigger batches of… well… everything. I have a 7-quart model, but I keep looking at this 10-quart version… because who doesn’t need room for more food?!
Heavy-duty sheet pans — great for roasting vegetables or entire sheet pan dinners in the oven. I use both half-size and quarter-size sheet pans.
*Note: I have linked to aluminum pans, which I use daily even though they are almost the only things in my kitchen that are not dishwasher-safe. I would prefer stainless pans that can go into the dishwasher, but I have yet to find any that are highly-rated and warp-free. I usually use parchment paper sheets. When roasting at high temps, I coat the pan with oil that has a high smoke point.
Sheet pan lids — LOVE these for thawing frozen items – then the lids can just go right into the dishwasher. They’re also great for covering a sheet pan and the universal size fits my different brands of half-size sheet pans.
Flexible cutting boards — Having several boards makes prep easy, and a ‘grippy’ back is a plus!
Knives — A good variety of knives is great for prepping ingredients, plus sometimes you can ‘cheat’ and run them through the dishwasher. I know you’re not supposed to, and I would never do it with expensive knives, but sometimes a less expensive knife set serves all of the necessary purposes and makes life a little easier.
Meat thermometer – Many of these recipes recommend checking the temperature of the meats after cooking.
Large mixing bowl with lid — I have two (one kept ‘pretty’ to use for parties and one everyday workhorse) — perfect for soaking beans overnight and all sorts of general kitchen needs. My large bowls are older-style Tupperware and I’m not even sure they make those anymore. If I were buying bowls today, I would get this stacking stainless steel set with lids.
Silicone mixing spatulas — I have 2 large size AND 2 medium size; I use at least 2-3 of them almost every day.
Food chopper — helps with chopping vegetables, eggs, or nuts if you’re not great with a knife.
With a little bit of creativity and a focus on hearty ingredients, you can make flavorful, satisfying poultry-free meals that everyone will love. Don’t be afraid to experiment with these dinner recipes – add your favorite flavors, mix and match ingredients, and truly make them your own.
As you enjoy these hearty fall dinner ideas, I hope they bring warmth and comfort to your family’s table!
Did you enjoy this post? Know someone else who might like it? Please take a moment to share on Pinterest, Facebook, or your favorite social media… (Click the sharing buttons at the bottom of the post.) Thank you!