10 Quick and Easy Fall Dinner Ideas for Busy Weeknights

When busy weeknights roll around, figuring out what to make for dinner can feel like a challenge. These quick and easy fall dinner ideas are here to save the day, bringing comfort and warmth to your table without the stress. With minimal prep and delicious flavors, you'll be able to whip up satisfying meals that fit right into your hectic schedule.

15-Minute One-Pan Chicken And Veggies

When the days get shorter and the weather cools, quick and easy meals become essential. This 15-minute one-pan chicken and veggies dish is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s colorful, nutritious, and packed with flavor. The vibrant mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes adds a fresh touch to your dinner table.

Cooking everything in one pan not only saves time but also makes cleanup a breeze. The chicken thighs are seasoned to perfection and roasted alongside the veggies, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully. This dish is not just a meal; it's a delightful experience that brings warmth and comfort to your evening.

Let’s jump into the recipe so you can enjoy this delicious dish tonight!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, skin-on
• 2 cups bell peppers, sliced (red, yellow, and green)
• 1 cup zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary) for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken thighs, bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until well coated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a large baking dish or a sheet pan, spreading it out evenly.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving. Enjoy your meal!

Hearty Chili Con Carne

Chili con carne is a classic dish that warms you up on chilly fall evenings. This hearty meal is packed with flavors and is perfect for busy weeknights. The image shows a steaming bowl of chili, garnished with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream, making it look inviting and delicious. The vibrant colors from the beans, tomatoes, and peppers pop against the cozy backdrop of autumn leaves outside the window.

Making chili is simple and quick. You can throw everything into one pot and let it simmer while you unwind after a long day. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover ingredients you have in your fridge. Serve it with some crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.

Here’s a straightforward recipe to whip up your own chili con carne:

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or cilantro

Instructions

1. Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook the Beef: Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until the onion is translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Add Ingredients: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Then add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and beef broth.
5. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your choice of shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or cilantro.

Simple Sheet Pan Salmon With Asparagus

This simple sheet pan salmon with asparagus is a perfect weeknight dinner. It’s quick, healthy, and packed with flavor. The salmon is tender and flaky, while the asparagus adds a nice crunch. With just a few ingredients, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.

The vibrant colors of the salmon and asparagus make this dish visually appealing. Lemon slices add a refreshing touch, enhancing the overall taste. Plus, everything cooks together on one pan, making cleanup a breeze!

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh dill or parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. On a large sheet pan, arrange the asparagus and salmon fillets.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and asparagus. Sprinkle minced garlic, salt, and pepper on top.
4. Place lemon slices on the salmon and asparagus.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley before serving.

Easy Vegetable Stir-Fry With Rice

When you're short on time but still want a healthy meal, a vegetable stir-fry is a fantastic choice. This dish is colorful and packed with nutrients, making it a great option for busy weeknights. The vibrant mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas not only looks appealing but also delivers a satisfying crunch.

Stir-fries are incredibly versatile. You can use whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it easy to customize based on your preferences. Pairing the veggies with fluffy rice creates a filling meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it comes together in just a matter of minutes!

To make this easy vegetable stir-fry, you will need some basic ingredients. Start with fresh vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas. A simple sauce made from soy sauce and sesame oil adds flavor without overwhelming the dish. Serve it over rice for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup snap peas
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
3. Pour in soy sauce and stir to coat the vegetables evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve the stir-fried vegetables over cooked rice. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto

Creamy mushroom risotto is a perfect dish for busy weeknights in the fall. It’s warm, comforting, and packed with flavor. The rich, creamy texture of the risotto pairs beautifully with the earthy taste of mushrooms. This dish is not only satisfying but also easy to whip up in about 30 minutes.

Start by sautéing fresh mushrooms until they’re golden brown. This brings out their natural flavors. Then, add Arborio rice, which is key for that creamy consistency. Gradually stir in warm broth, letting the rice absorb the liquid slowly. Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for a delightful touch.

This risotto is versatile, too! You can add peas or spinach for extra nutrition. Serve it as a main dish or a side. Either way, it’s sure to impress your family after a long day.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the broth in a saucepan and keep it warm over low heat.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until softened.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are golden brown.
4. Stir in the Arborio rice, cooking for about 2 minutes until it’s lightly toasted.
5. Gradually add the warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the liquid is absorbed before adding more.
6. After about 18-20 minutes, the rice should be creamy and al dente. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Savory Beef Tacos With Fresh Salsa

Beef tacos are a fantastic choice for a quick and easy fall dinner. They’re packed with flavor and can be customized to suit everyone’s taste. The image showcases delicious tacos filled with seasoned beef, topped with fresh salsa, cilantro, and creamy avocado slices. The vibrant colors of the ingredients make them even more inviting, perfect for a cozy weeknight meal.

These tacos are not just tasty; they are also simple to prepare. You can whip them up in no time, making them ideal for busy evenings. Pair them with a side of fresh salsa, and you have a meal that’s sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
• 8 taco shells
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Drain excess fat, then add taco seasoning and a splash of water. Cook until well combined and heated through.
2. Prepare the Tacos: Warm the taco shells according to package instructions. Fill each shell with the seasoned beef.
3. Add Toppings: Top the beef with diced tomatoes, onions, avocado slices, and fresh cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the tacos before serving. Enjoy with your favorite salsa on the side!

Fast And Flavorful Shrimp Scampi

When you're short on time but still want a delicious meal, shrimp scampi is a fantastic choice. This dish combines tender shrimp with garlic, butter, and a splash of lemon, all served over a bed of pasta. The image captures a beautiful plate of shrimp scampi, showcasing plump shrimp nestled among perfectly cooked spaghetti, garnished with fresh parsley and a lemon wedge. It’s not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a quick and satisfying dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

To make this dish, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. The best part is that it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings when you want something tasty without a lot of fuss.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 ounces spaghetti
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Add the Wine: Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly.
4. Toss with Pasta: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing everything together until well combined. Adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Serve: Plate the shrimp scampi, garnishing with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Enjoy your quick and flavorful meal!

Simple Baked Ziti With Cheese

Baked ziti is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This dish combines pasta, cheese, and a rich tomato sauce, making it a family favorite. The image shows a beautifully baked ziti, golden and bubbly, fresh from the oven. It’s served in a cozy dish, ready to be enjoyed with loved ones.

Making baked ziti is straightforward and requires minimal prep time. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients, like adding ground meat or veggies. This dish is not only tasty but also filling, making it ideal for those chilly fall evenings.

Gather your ingredients and get ready to whip up this delicious meal!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the ziti in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
3. Layer the Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top. Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
4. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your simple baked ziti with a side salad or garlic bread!

Fast And Easy Chicken Stir-Fry

When you're short on time but still want a delicious meal, chicken stir-fry is a fantastic option. This dish is colorful and packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. The vibrant mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and tender chicken creates a satisfying plate that everyone will enjoy.

Stir-frying is quick and allows the ingredients to retain their crunch and flavor. The steam rising from the pan adds to the excitement of cooking. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite vegetables or sauces. Serve it over rice for a complete meal that’s ready in no time!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced
• 2 cups mixed bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Add the bell peppers and broccoli, stirring frequently for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Pour in the soy sauce, mixing well to coat all ingredients. Cook for another 2 minutes.
6. Serve hot over cooked rice and enjoy your quick and easy chicken stir-fry!

Easy Vegetable And Bean Soup

When the weather cools down, a warm bowl of vegetable and bean soup is just what you need. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a hearty meal packed with nutrition. The colorful mix of vegetables and beans creates a comforting and satisfying soup that everyone will love.

The image shows a steaming bowl of soup, filled with vibrant vegetables like bell peppers and squash, along with a variety of beans. Fresh herbs sprinkled on top add a pop of color and flavor. This soup not only looks inviting but is also quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner.

Gather your ingredients and get ready to whip up this easy vegetable and bean soup. It’s a fantastic way to use up any leftover veggies you have in the fridge!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup butternut squash, cubed
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft.
2. Add the bell pepper, carrots, zucchini, and butternut squash. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, kidney beans, white beans, oregano, and cumin. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.