Fall is in the air and I LOVE it! Sweaters, crisp breeze through the window, pumpkin everything, cider, football and comfort food. There is nothing like autumn in the Midwest! It’s like a deep, cool breath of fresh air after the wild fun of a hot summer. It’s the peaceful pause before the holiday season kicks into gear. And it’s a time to gather people around your table. Looking for some new options this weekend? Look no further!
Cozy Soups
Who doesn’t love a warm bowl of soup on a crisp autumn day? The best part about it is that a lot of soup recipes are for the crockpot or pressure cooker, so it’s an easy option for busy afternoons. Pair any of these with some crusty bread or a nice salad and you have a satisfying meal! Instant Pot Chicken Gnocchi Soup, Crockpot Three Bean Turkey Chili, Stove Top Loaded Baked Potato Soup or Crockpot Beef Minestrone Soup.
Cozy Munchies
Dips and appetizers just scream football season, don’t they? Counters lined with cheesy, savory, belly-satisfying treats. Although there are about a million options out there that pair well with Ranch (#fancymidwest), here are some of my faves: Bacon/Cheddar/Swiss Cheese Ball, Saucy Mini Meatballs, Ham & Pickle Roll Ups, Cranberry Jalapeno Dip or Skinny Seven-Layer Taco Dip.
Cozy Casseroles
If you want a delicious casserole, go to any Baptist church potluck between September and December! Or, cook up one of these options in your own kitchen and your family will worship you. Best yet, make up two at once–one to cook off that day and another to put in an aluminum 9X13, wrap with foil and wrap again with plastic wrap and freeze for a busy winter evening dinner! Baked Mac & Cheese, Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, Cheesy Taco Pasta, Creamy Swiss Chicken Casserole with Stuffing or Crockpot Turkey & Dumplings Recipe.
Cozy Roasts
Another classic crockpot (or pressure cooker) meal that nourishes the soul as much as it does the belly. It works well after an afternoon of pumpkin carving, apple picking or Black Friday shopping! These recipes are classic “one pot” meals, but go famously with some warm rolls with cinnamon butter! Crockpot Red Wine Pot Roast, Crockpot Filipino Adobo Pork Roast, Oven Roast Chicken with Brussels Sprouts, Instant Pot Tangy Mississippi Roast or Instant Pot Honey Baked Ham knock-off.
Cozy Drinks
The wind is howling outside and you’re cuddled on your couch with a warm mug of something watching Hocus Pocus for the 15th time as the candle light dances on the living room wall. What is in your mug or glass? We hope it’s one of these easy, but tasty, fall drinks! Crockpot Cranberry Apple Cider, Kahlua Hot Chocolate, Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour, the Peppermintini, Easy DIY Pumpkin Spice Coffee Blend or 5 Minute Homemade Blender Egg Nog.
What are some of your favorite fall meals? Drop a comment below and if you’re feeling especially generous, a link to the recipe!
Overwhelmed with the idea of meal planning no matter the season? Look here for some help in getting started!
For more fall foodie recipes, follow this link.