As the air cools and leaves change, it’s tempting to reach for something seasonally cozy—but let’s put the pumpkin aside this year! These 11 fall recipes capture the essence of the season without the usual pumpkin overload. From creamy soups to hearty dinners and warm, spiced desserts, these recipes will fill your kitchen with comforting aromas and flavors.
1. Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto
Nothing says fall like a warm, creamy bowl of risotto. Butternut squash, with its nutty flavor, adds richness without the pumpkin. Simmer Arborio rice in vegetable or chicken broth, adding roasted, mashed butternut squash halfway through for a velvety texture. A sprinkle of parmesan at the end makes it irresistible!
2. Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats
These overnight oats bring all the cozy flavors of apple pie in a breakfast-ready bowl. Just combine oats, milk (or a milk alternative), and a touch of vanilla. Top with grated apple, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a handful of nuts for crunch. Let it sit overnight, and wake up to a fall-inspired breakfast.
3. Spiced Sweet Potato Soup
Warm, earthy, and comforting, sweet potato soup is fall in a bowl. Roast the sweet potatoes for extra depth of flavor, then blend with sautéed onions, garlic, and a mix of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Top with a dollop of yogurt and some toasted seeds for a perfect, creamy finish.
4. Caramelized Pear Salad
For a refreshing yet autumnal salad, caramelized pears bring out the sweetness of fall fruit. Sauté pear slices until golden and add to a bed of mixed greens. Top with toasted walnuts, goat cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic dressing. This simple salad has both crunch and sweetness, perfect for a cozy dinner side.
5. Harvest Grain Bowl with Roasted Vegetables
Build a grain bowl with fall flavors that feel hearty without the pumpkin. Use a base of quinoa or farro, adding roasted veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and red onions. Add protein with chickpeas or grilled chicken, and finish with a tahini or lemon vinaigrette.
6. Maple Glazed Acorn Squash
Slice acorn squash into half-moons, drizzle with a light maple glaze, and roast until caramelized. The squash’s natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the maple, giving a touch of autumn to any main dish. Add a sprinkle of thyme and salt for balance.
7. Chai-Spiced Apple Crisp
Swap out pumpkin pie for a Chai-Spiced Apple Crisp. Sliced apples get tossed with a blend of cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg before being baked under an oat-streusel topping. The result is a warm, aromatic dessert that’s delicious on its own or with a scoop of vanilla.
8. Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
Beets are a fall staple, and when roasted with a little olive oil, they turn sweet and tender. Toss with mixed greens, crumbled goat cheese, and walnuts for crunch. A balsamic reduction drizzle adds a final touch of fall flavor.
9. Herbed Mushroom and Barley Soup
Mushrooms bring an earthy richness to this hearty barley soup that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Simmer mushrooms, carrots, and celery with barley in vegetable broth, then add rosemary and thyme for extra fall vibes. This soup only gets better the next day, so make a big batch!
10. Cinnamon and Clove Spiced Granola
This homemade granola features oats, nuts, seeds, and a pinch of cinnamon and clove for a cozy twist. Mix everything with a bit of honey, bake until golden, and enjoy over yogurt or on its own as a snack. It’s crunchy, aromatic, and wonderfully autumnal without a hint of pumpkin.
11. Baked Acorn Squash with Wild Rice Stuffing
For a show-stopping main dish, bake acorn squash halves and fill them with a wild rice stuffing made with cranberries, pecans, and herbs. The sweet and nutty flavors blend perfectly, making it a lovely dish for fall gatherings.
These pumpkin-free recipes bring all the best flavors of fall into your kitchen. Perfect for cozy nights in or as the centerpiece for gatherings, they’ll make you forget all about pumpkin!