When that first October chill hits, it’s time to ditch the light salads and get into some serious comfort food. These hearty dinners will keep you warm and full when the temperatures drop. No need for fancy ingredients—just simple, satisfying meals that are perfect for cozying up after a long day. From cheesy classics to stick-to-your-ribs stews, these dishes are exactly what fall nights are made for.
Brisket Chili
Got leftover brisket? Turn it into this hearty chili packed with beans, peppers, and corn. This one’s a thick, cozy dinner that’s perfect after a chilly October day.
Get the Recipe: Brisket Chili
Instant Pot Cabbage Soup
A no-fuss cabbage soup that’s full of good stuff and comes together in the Instant Pot. This is one of those easy, comforting meals that’s great for a chilly evening.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Cabbage Soup
Goat Cheese Grits
These creamy goat cheese grits are topped with burst tomatoes and chicken for a dinner that feels comforting and a little special. Perfect for when you need something cozy.
Get the Recipe: Goat Cheese Grits
Creamy Pumpkin Garlic Pasta
This pumpkin garlic pasta is perfect for fall. It’s creamy, comforting, and just what you need when the weather starts turning.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pumpkin Garlic Pasta
Buffalo Chicken Orzo Soup
If you love buffalo wings, this cheesy, spicy chicken orzo soup will hit the spot. It’s ready in 30 minutes, perfect for a quick, comforting meal when the temperature drops.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Orzo Soup
Pumpkin Stuffed Shells
Stuffed with pumpkin and seasoned with fall spices like sage and nutmeg, these shells are a great way to embrace the cooler weather with a comforting, filling meal.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Stuffed Shells
Sausage Mac and Cheese
A creamy, cheesy mac and cheese with sausage mixed in. This is the perfect go-to comfort meal when you’re looking for something that both kids and adults will love.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Mac and Cheese
Bomb Meatloaf
This meatloaf is great for cold nights. It’s juicy, easy to throw together, and coated with a sweet and tangy glaze that’ll have you coming back for more. Perfect for when you need a comforting classic.
Get the Recipe: Bomb Meatloaf
Chicken Lime Soup
This spicy chicken lime soup skips the noodles but brings the heat. Think of it as a mashup between chicken noodle and tortilla soup, great for keeping warm when temps drop.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Lime Soup
Garlicky Butternut Squash Noodles
Butternut squash noodles tossed with spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and some pine nuts, all in one pan. It’s a great vegetarian dinner that feels right at home in fall.
Get the Recipe: Garlicky Butternut Squash Noodles
Venison Meatballs
These venison meatballs are tender and loaded with flavor, minus the gamey taste. They’re perfect with your favorite pasta and sauce for a cozy dinner when the cold hits.
Get the Recipe: Venison Meatballs
Instant Pot Beef and Mushroom Stew
Beef and mushrooms in a stew that cooks up quickly in the Instant Pot. It’s the perfect stick-to-your-ribs meal for cold nights when you want something rich without waiting forever.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Beef and Mushroom Stew
Creamy Mushroom Risotto
Mushroom risotto that’s rich, creamy, and hits all the right notes—no dairy needed. Perfect for when you want something comforting and a little fancy without too much effort.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mushroom Risotto
Chicken Sorrentino
Breaded chicken topped with prosciutto, eggplant, and cheese, all baked in tomato sauce. It’s the kind of meal that hits the spot when you’re looking for something hearty and cheesy on a cool evening.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Sorrentino
Stuffed Chicken Marsala
Classic chicken marsala with a twist—this version is stuffed with mozzarella and basil. It’s a great dinner when you’re craving something hearty and comforting during the fall chill.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Chicken Marsala