27 fall comfort meals for when you just can’t pumpkin spice anymore

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When you’re all pumpkin spiced out, these fall comfort meals are the perfect way to mix things up. Say goodbye to the endless parade of cinnamon and nutmeg and hello to dishes that bring great flavors without the seasonal cliché. These recipes are like a breath of fresh air for your autumn menu, giving you a break from the pumpkin overload.

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

Chicken Tortellini Soup

A bowl of chicken tortellini soup with vegetables and herbs.
Chicken Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Chicken Tortellini Soup is perfect for a cozy fall comfort meal. Ready in 40 minutes, this one-pot dish is ideal for hectic weeknights. It features tender chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, and a savory broth with fresh vegetables and Italian herbs. Optional garnishes like parsley or cracked pepper add a nice touch. This soup also reheats beautifully, making leftovers easy to enjoy. It’s a wholesome and quick dinner that brings warmth and comfort to your table.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortellini 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 ready in 30 minutes. It’s a one-pan meal featuring 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 great for weeknight dinners or date nights.
Get the Recipe: Chicken With Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Hungarian Mushroom Soup

A bowl of Hungarian mushroom soup with a gold spoon.
Hungarian Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Hungarian Mushroom Soup is always a favorite fall comfort meal. Ready in 45 minutes, this one-pot meal brings together 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 great for weeknight dinners or leisurely weekends.
Get the Recipe: Hungarian Mushroom Soup

Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

Two bowls of sweet potato and red pepper soup with sour cream and parsley.
Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup is ready in 1 hour and is a one-pot recipe that’s 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 perfect for weeknight or weekend meals.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

Creamy Dijon Chicken

A pan of creamy dijon chicken with herbs and bacon.
Creamy Dijon Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This one-pan recipe, ready in 30 minutes, features seasoned chicken thighs, a creamy Dijon mustard sauce, fresh spinach, and crumbled bacon. Cook the chicken and bacon, then whip up the sauce with onions, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, chicken broth, lemon juice, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard. Add Parmesan and spinach, then combine everything. It’s a quick, hearty dish, perfect for those cool evenings when you need something comforting.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Dijon Chicken

Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Twice baked potato casserole with bacon and green onions.
Twice Baked Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Ready in 1 hour and 50 minutes, this comforting dish 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.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Chicken Corn Soup

A bowl of creamy soup with vegetables and chunks of chicken, garnished with parsley. A spoon is lifting a portion from the bowl.
Chicken Corn Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Ready in under an hour, this is a one-pot meal that 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.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Corn Soup

Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Creamy Italian sausage soup in a pot with a spoon and garnishes on the side.
Creamy Italian Sausage Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Creamy Italian Sausage Soup is a hearty and quick choice for early fall evenings. Ground mild Italian sausage, onions, and a mix of diced and pureed tomatoes come together and simmer to perfection in just 12 minutes. Enhanced with chicken broth, cream cheese, and spices, and finished with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, this meal is ready in 30 minutes and perfect for those cooler nights.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Italian Sausage 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.

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole is perfect for early fall dinners. Steamed cauliflower and broccoli mix with crispy bacon, sour cream, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar and mozzarella. After combining, it’s baked until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Ready in under an hour, this casserole is hearty and easy to prepare, making it a comforting choice for cooler evenings.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

A serving of Philly cheese steak casserole being pulled up from a pan.
Philly Cheese Steak Casserole. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Ready in under an hour, this dish 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.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

Wild Rice Mushroom Soup

A spoonful of wild rice mushroom soup.
Wild Rice Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Wild Rice Mushroom Soup is a fantastic choice for a fall comfort meal, especially when paired with a slice of crusty bread. 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 the 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.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Mushroom Soup

Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

A casserole dish filled with tater tots, shredded chicken, and corn, topped with melted cheese and green onions.
Chicken Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is your go-to for busy weeknights and fall comfort meals. Ready in under an hour, this dish is the perfect comfort food that’s budget-friendly and easy to prep in advance. Mix 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. Simple, delicious, and great for leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

A casserole dish filled with pasta and peas.
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Ready in under an hour, this dish combines tender egg noodles, savory tuna, and a creamy, cheesy 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.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

Broccoli Casserole

A casserole dish with broccoli and cheese in it.
Broccoli Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

In just 50 minutes, you get a dish that blends fresh broccoli, creamy mushroom soup, and melted cheddar cheese, topped with a crunchy cracker crust. It’s simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or for those new to cooking. The combination of flavors and textures will be a hit with the whole family. Plus, it reheats nicely, so leftovers are just as good the next day. This casserole is a quick and comforting meal that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole

White Bean Soup

A bowl of white bean soup with carrots and croutons.
White Bean Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Warm up your fall evenings with a bowl of White Bean Soup. Ready in just 40 minutes, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s packed with fresh vegetables like carrots and celery, and the white beans add some texture, heartiness, and flavor. Garlic, thyme, and rosemary infuse the soup with rich flavors, while a splash of lemon juice adds a bright finish. Top it off with croutons and grated Parmesan for an extra touch. Easy to make and reheats well, it’s a quick and wholesome meal.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup

Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

Slow cooker split pea soup in a slow cooker with a spoon.
Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Embrace the cozy vibes of fall with Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup. This recipe is incredibly simple and great for anyone, even if you’re new to cooking. Just prep your ingredients, toss them into the slow cooker, and let it do the work. You can cook it on low for a longer period or on high if you’re short on time. Featuring dried split peas, chicken broth, ham, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and thyme, this soup is hearty and flavorful. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top if you like. It’s a comforting meal that also keeps well for leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms

A dish of cauliflower risotto with mushrooms with a fork.
Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms is a one-pot meal ready in just 30 minutes, making it great for early fall dinners. With frozen cauliflower rice, Portobello mushrooms, and fresh thyme, this creamy and nutrient-packed dish is perfect for cooler nights. Simple ingredients like onions, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese come together quickly, making it a comforting choice for the season.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms

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.

In just 30 minutes, this one-pan dish brings together ground beef, cauliflower rice, mushrooms, and shredded cheddar cheese. Start by cooking the beef, then add onions, mushrooms, and cauliflower rice. Mix in cream cheese, beef broth, and spices. Top with cheddar and broil until golden. Quick, easy, and perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something cozy.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Crock Pot Taco Soup

Two bowls of Crock Pot taco soup with cheese and sour cream.
Crock Pot Taco Soup. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Crock Pot Taco Soup is your go-to for a cozy fall evening, especially when paired with tortilla chips and guacamole. Ready in 4 hours and 20 minutes, this dish 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. Quick prep, hearty, and perfect for weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Taco Soup

Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake

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

This Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake is a fall comfort food favorite, especially for families. This 30-minute 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. It’s a quick and hearty option, making it great for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken

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

Nothing says fall comfort like Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken. In just 30 minutes, this one-pan dish brings together boneless chicken thighs in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. Season the chicken, cook it in a skillet, then make the sauce with chicken broth, heavy cream, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese. Finish in the oven until perfectly done. Quick, rich, and great for busy evenings when you crave something cozy.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken

Keto Zuppa Toscana

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

Warm up with a bowl of Keto Zuppa Toscana. 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 that warms you up.
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.

Dive into fall comfort with Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts. Ready in 30 minutes, this dish 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, and perfect for weeknight family dinners or date nights.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts

Creamy Garlic Chicken

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

Embrace fall comfort with Creamy Garlic Chicken. 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 when you need something comforting.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Creamy Tuscan Chicken

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

Ready in 40 minutes, this one-pan dish features chicken thighs, 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 Pot Pie Soup

Chicken pot pie soup in a white bowl with a spoon.
Chicken Pot Pie Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Pot Pie Soup is the ultimate fall comfort meal, perfect for pairing with warm, crusty bread. Ready in 1 hour, this one-pot meal is hearty, creamy, and cozy. Start by cooking 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 great for family dinners.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie Soup

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.

Ready in just over 1 hour, this one-pot dish is hearty and warming. 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. Pair with cornbread for a quick, flavorful, and perfect weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Sweet And Spicy Bacon And Turkey Chili

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