If you’re anything like me, cooking an elaborate dinner at the end of a long day is pretty much out of the question. I’ve been guilty of far too many after work PB&J dinners than I’d care to admit. But fall is here, and with it comes chillier weather and all of my favorite produce, so it’s time to get back in the kitchen!
Here are a few delicious, quick, no fuss meals. They can all be made in just one pot (minimal clean-up!) and are warm and hearty – just what I’m looking for on a chilly autumn evening!
One-Pot Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese with Walnuts
Does anyone remember The Great Martha Stewart One-Pot Pasta Phenomenon of 2013? Well, this mac and cheese is very similar! Instead of cooking and draining the noodles and mixing them with the milk and cheese (like you would for normal mac and cheese), you cook the raw noodles and squash right in the milk. Once the milk boils down and the noodles are soft, just stir in your cheese and walnuts, and you’re good to go! Not to mention – butternut squash makes mac and cheese next-level delicious!
Pork Chops with Pecans, Sage and Fall Fruit
Apples and pork chops are a classic combo, but, if you toss in some pecans and sage, then you’ve got yourself a fall masterpiece! This is a great recipe to keep in your back pocket if you’re throwing a dinner party or need a last-minute meal for unexpected guests. It tastes and looks like you spent hours cooking, but in reality the whole thing comes together in just 30 minutes with only one skillet.
Sweet Potatoes with Sausage, Kale and Walnuts
Sweet potatoes are one of my favorite foods year round, but I could eat them all day, every day in the fall – especially when they’re cooked with sausage and topped with sage and walnuts! This skillet dish is wonderful on its own, or you could serve it as a side with chicken or beef. It’s so easy to make, I’m sure these Sweet Potatoes with Sausage, Kale and Walnuts will be in constant rotation in your kitchen!
What are some of your go-to weeknight dinners for fall?