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Home » Dinner

21 Easy Make-Ahead Fall Recipes for Stress-Free Weeknights

Published: Sep 2, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Make-ahead fall recipes are the key to enjoying stress-free weeknights when the weather cools down. These recipes are not only easy to prepare, but they also embrace the comforting flavors of the season. Whether you're looking to get dinner on the table quickly or simply want to enjoy the rich tastes of fall without spending all day in the kitchen, these meals are a great way to keep things simple and satisfying. Perfect for busy evenings when you need a break but still want something delicious on your plate.

A bowl of easy vegan mushroom stroganoff placed on a wooden board.
Creamy Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff. Photo Credit: Two City Vegans.

Authentic Mulligatawny Soup

An overhead image of mulligatawny soup being scooped out in a large pot.
Authentic Mulligatawny Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This hearty Mulligatawny Soup features vegetables and lentils in a creamy coconut broth, making it a warm and comforting option for fall. With a quick prep time, it’s an excellent make-ahead meal that’s perfect for easy weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Mulligatawny Soup

Gochujang Cauliflower Tacos

A close-up image of gochujang cauliflower tacos on a plate, accompanied by a small bowl of lime slices and sliced red onions.
Gochujang Cauliflower Tacos. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These Korean spiced cauliflower tacos offer a crispy texture and are easy to prepare in advance, making them a convenient, flavorful choice for busy fall nights. Simply add your favorite toppings before serving for a stress-free meal.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Cauliflower Tacos

Vegetable Casserole

Overhead image of vegetable casserole in a dish.
Vegetable Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

A satisfying blend of fresh veggies, creamy sauce, and crunchy topping makes this Vegetable Casserole a nourishing and easy dish to prepare ahead of time. It’s a practical option for weeknight dinners that’ll save you time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Casserole

Asparagus Casserole

Overhead image of asparagus casserole aith a fork and knife on a plate.
Asparagus Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

This Asparagus Casserole is a nutritious and comforting dish that’s perfect for fall. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time, making it a great option for stress-free weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Casserole

Creamy Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff

A bowl of easy vegan mushroom stroganoff placed on a wooden board.
Creamy Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

A creamy mushroom stroganoff that’s easy to make and full of flavor, this vegan recipe is ready in under 30 minutes. It’s a convenient, make-ahead meal for fall weeknights that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff

Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Twice baked potato casserole with bacon and green onions.
Twice Baked Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Twice Baked Potato Casserole combines classic ingredients like bacon, potatoes, and cheddar cheese for a comforting dish that’s simple to prepare ahead of time. It’s an easy, go-to recipe for fall dinners that will satisfy the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Best Tuna Casserole

Overhead image of best tuna casserole in a dish.
Best Tuna Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Tuna Casserole is a timeless dish with a creamy sauce and tender noodles, making it an easy, comforting choice for weeknight dinners. Prepare it in advance for a stress-free fall meal that’s ready when you are.
Get the Recipe: Best Tuna Casserole

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Chicken cordon bleu casserole on a black plate with a fork.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole offers all the flavors of the classic dish in an easier, one-dish format. Perfect for make-ahead meals, this casserole is a flavorful option that’s ready to enjoy on busy fall nights.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Crunchy Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

A small white bowl with broccoli, cauliflower, grapes, and pumpkin seeds tossed in a yogurt dressing.
Crunchy Broccoli Cauliflower Salad. Photo credit: fANNEtastic food.

This cauliflower and broccoli salad is a no-cook side dish that takes just 15 minutes to prepare. Tossed in a Greek yogurt dressing, it’s a quick and easy make-ahead option for fall gatherings or busy weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

Swedish Meatballs

Swedish meatballs on a plate.
Swedish Meatballs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Swedish Meatballs, with their comforting flavors of nutmeg and allspice, are an easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for fall. Prepare them ahead of time for a simple and cozy dinner that’s ready to serve when you need it.
Get the Recipe: Swedish Meatballs

Asparagus Fathead Quiche

A white casserole with asparagus quiche.
Asparagus Fathead Quiche. Photo credit: Low Carb - No Carb.

Asparagus Fathead Quiche is a simple and versatile dish that’s easy to prepare ahead of time. Whether for breakfast, dinner, or brunch, it’s a practical option that fits well into a busy fall schedule.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Fathead Quiche

Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup

Creamy cheesy broccoli soup with a spoon in a bowl.
Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

This creamy broccoli soup is a comforting choice for fall, packed with rich flavors from roasted broccoli and garlic. Easy to prepare in just 30 minutes, it’s a make-ahead meal that’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or holiday starters.
Get the Recipe: Creamy, Cheesy, Broccoli Soup

Italian Slow Cooker Pork Roast

A white bowl with slow cooker Italian pork roast, potatoes and carrots.
Italian Slow Cooker Pork Roast. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Slow cooker Italian pork roast, seasoned with herbs and spices, is a flavorful dinner that’s fall-apart tender. It’s an easy make-ahead meal that’s perfect for special occasions or meal prepping during the fall season.
Get the Recipe: Italian Slow Cooker Pork Roast

Sheet-Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies

Close-up image of sheet pan paprika and chicken and veggies.
Sheet-Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

This roasted paprika chicken, marinated in creamy mayonnaise, is paired with root vegetables for a flavorful, easy-to-bake dish. Prepare it in advance for a stress-free dinner that’s ready to enjoy on cool fall nights.
Get the Recipe: Sheet-Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies

Easy Pot Roast Crock Pot

Overhead image of easy pot roast crock pot on a plate.
Easy Pot Roast Crock Pot. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Pot roast cooked in a Crock Pot with minimal prep is a classic, hearty meal that’s perfect for fall. With just a few ingredients, it’s an easy, make-ahead option that’s ready to enjoy at the end of a busy day.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pot Roast Crock Pot

Walnut Cranberry Chicken Salad

A slice of toast with cranberry chicken salad on top.
Walnut Cranberry Chicken Salad. Photo credit: fANNEtastic food.

This chicken salad is lightened up with Greek yogurt and features crunchy walnuts and dried cranberries. It’s a quick and easy make-ahead lunch option that’s perfect for busy fall days.
Get the Recipe: Walnut Cranberry Chicken Salad

Italian Low Carb Pasta Marinara

Pasta Marinara inside a grey plate with extra sauce and basil leaves on the side.
Italian Low Carb Pasta Marinara. Photo credit: Low Carb - No Carb.

This pasta marinara recipe is a quick and easy dinner option that can be prepared in advance. A convenient choice for fall weeknights, it’s a simple, flavorful meal that’s ready when you need it.
Get the Recipe: Italian Low Carb Pasta Marinara

Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms on a serving tray.
Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms make for a flavorful appetizer that’s easy to prepare ahead of time. With simple ingredients, they’re a stress-free option for fall gatherings or weeknight meals.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

Moroccan Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers

Moroccan ground turkey stuffed pepper with a fork in a  saucer.
Moroccan Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Moroccan ground turkey stuffed peppers with rice and baharat make for a hearty, complete meal. Perfect for fall weeknights, they’re both filling and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Moroccan Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers

Sweet Potato Kale Salad

Close-up image of sweet potato kale salad in a bowl.
Sweet Potato Kale Salad. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

This sweet potato and kale salad brings together roasted sweet potatoes and fresh kale with a tangy dressing, creating a balanced and flavorful dish. It’s a practical choice for a make-ahead lunch or dinner, perfect for stress-free fall weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Kale Salad

Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef

Four tacos with carne molida on a wooden surface.
Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Carne Molida is an effortless dish with rich, slow-cooked flavor, making it a versatile choice for tacos, burritos, and more. It’s perfect for preparing in advance and using throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef

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Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

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