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Home » Dinner

27 Fall Dinners So Good You’ll Forget They’re Budget-Friendly

Published: Oct 10, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Fall dinners are all about comfort, warmth, and flavor, and it’s even better when you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy them. These recipes are great for cozy nights in and packed with seasonal goodness that hits the spot without stretching your wallet. Whether you're looking for something hearty or quick to whip up after a busy day, you’ll find meals that bring big flavors without big costs. Plus, they're easy to make, so you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying the fall vibes.

An overhead image of vegan white bean chili with toppings.
Easy, Creamy Vegan White Bean Chili. Photo Credit: Urban Farmie.

Paccheri al Forno

An overhead image of paccheri al forno in a pyrex glass dish.
Paccheri al Forno. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Paccheri al Forno, a comforting Southern Italian pasta bake, combines rich flavors with simple ingredients for a cozy dinner. Ready in under an hour, it’s a great budget-friendly fall meal that brings warmth to any table.
Get the Recipe: Paccheri al Forno

Instant Pot Minestrone

A close-up image of a ladle filled with Instant Pot minestrone soup, with the pot in the background.
Instant Pot Minestrone. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Instant Pot vegetable soup is nutritious, packed with fresh vegetables and beans that create a hearty dinner. This budget-friendly fall meal can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Minestrone

Quick Fried Rice with Leftover Rice

Horizontal image of fried rice in a white bowl with brown chopsticks on the side.
Quick Fried Rice with Leftover Rice. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Fried rice is a quick and versatile dish that utilizes day-old rice and any ingredients on hand. In just 15 minutes, you can have a budget-friendly fall meal for a speedy lunch or an effortless weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Quick Fried Rice with Leftover Rice

Stuffed Peppers

A photo showing vegan stuffed peppers arranged on a white plate, set atop a brown cloth, with a fork and knife placed beside.
Stuffed Peppers. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Roasted vegan stuffed peppers filled with quinoa, lentils, and vegetables offer a nutritious option for dinner. They’re a budget-friendly fall meal that’s both hearty and easy to prepare, ideal for those looking to eat well without overspending.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Peppers

Instant Pot Mulligatawny Soup

An overhead image of instant pot mulligatawny soup being scoop out from the pot.
Instant Pot Mulligatawny Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This rich curry soup, made with lentils and vegetables in coconut broth, serves as a comforting dinner choice. As a budget-friendly fall meal, it’s ready in under an hour, making it perfect for chilly evenings.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Mulligatawny Soup

Penne Pomodoro

An close up photo of cooked penne pomodoro in a pot.
Penne Pomodoro. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Penne tossed with seasonal vegetables and a light sauce is a quick option for busy weeknights. Ready in under 30 minutes, this budget-friendly fall meal is a simple way to bring a hearty dish to your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Penne Pomodoro

Turkey Roast

Vegan Turkey Roast in a glass baking dish on a countertop, garnished with herbs.
Turkey Roast. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

A vegan roast made from chickpeas and seitan is a cost-effective choice for any family gathering. With easy prep and pantry staples, it stands out as a budget-friendly fall meal that delivers on flavor without straining your wallet.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Roast

Easy, Creamy White Bean Chili

An overhead image of vegan white bean chili with toppings.
Easy, Creamy White Bean Chili. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegan white bean chili is packed with nutritious ingredients and can be ready in just 30 minutes. This budget-friendly fall meal utilizes pantry staples, offering a quick and economical option for those crisp autumn nights.
Get the Recipe: Easy, Creamy White Bean Chili

Chana Masala

Top view image of chana masala served in a white bowl.
Chana Masala. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Chana masala, a flavorful chickpea curry, is not only quick to make but also affordable. In just 30 minutes, this budget-friendly fall meal introduces you to rich Indian flavors without a hefty price tag.
Get the Recipe: Chana Masala

Authentic Dal Tadka (Stovetop, Instant Pot)

Two bowls of finished dal tadka next to each other.
Authentic Dal Tadka (Stovetop, Instant Pot). Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Dal Tadka, a protein-rich lentil curry, is easy to prepare and offers comforting flavors. When served with flatbread or rice, it transforms into a complete budget-friendly fall meal that's perfect for any night.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Dal Tadka (Stovetop, Instant Pot)

Tuscan Cannellini Bean Soup

An overhead view of the Tuscan bean soup placed on a serving dish with a spoon on the side.
Tuscan Cannellini Bean Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Tuscan soup with beans comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a hearty choice for weeknight dinners. This budget-friendly fall meal is quick to prepare, providing a satisfying option without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Cannellini Bean Soup

Shepherd's Pie

Close up view of vegan shepherd's pie in a white baking dish.
Shepherd's Pie. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegan Shepherd's Pie, featuring lentils, mushrooms, and creamy mashed potatoes, is a filling dinner option. Ready in an hour, it’s a budget-friendly fall meal that promises to please even the pickiest eaters.
Get the Recipe: Shepherd's Pie

Taco Rice Skillet

Closeup of a skillet with ground beef, cheese and tomatoes.
Taco Rice Skillet. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Taco rice skillet dinner is an easy, flavorful option that can be prepared in just 20 minutes. With only eight ingredients, it’s a quick and budget-friendly fall meal that will delight the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Taco Rice Skillet

Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Overhead image of chicken and rice casserole on top of a wooden board.
Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Chicken and rice casserole combines tender chicken with creamy mushroom soup and rice under melted cheese. This comforting dish makes for a budget-friendly fall meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Skillet

Lower left corner of Philly Cheesesteak casserole in glass baking dish cooling on rack.
Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Skillet. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Ground beef Philly Cheesesteak Skillet is a quick, flavorful option that’s ideal for both lunch and dinner. This one-pan dish is easy to prepare, making it a go-to budget-friendly fall meal for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Skillet

French Onion Salisbury Steak

Salisbury Steak with brown gravy on cheese toast with corn and mashed potatoes on a dinner plate.
French Onion Salisbury Steak. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

French Onion Salisbury Steak with gravy brings gourmet flavors to your dinner table while remaining budget-friendly. Paired with mashed potatoes or a green salad, this dish is both economical and packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Salisbury Steak

Chickpea and Sweet Potato Stew

Two bowls of vegan chickpea and sweet potato stew.
Chickpea and Sweet Potato Stew. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

A hearty vegan stew featuring chickpeas, sweet potatoes, and carrots is perfect for colder evenings. This budget-friendly fall meal provides warmth and comfort while being easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea and Sweet Potato Stew

Chickpea Spinach Curry

Overhead image of chickpea spinach curry in a bowl.
Chickpea Spinach Curry. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Chana palak, a spinach and chickpea curry, can be ready in just 20 minutes, making it a convenient dinner option. This budget-friendly fall meal pairs beautifully with rice or naan for a wholesome experience.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Spinach Curry

Fried Cabbage and Sausage Skillet

Cast iron bowl with cabbage and sausage.
Fried Cabbage and Sausage Skillet. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Fried cabbage and sausage skillet is a classic recipe that makes for a quick and satisfying dinner. Ready in 30 minutes or less, it’s a budget-friendly fall meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage and Sausage Skillet

Easy Mushroom Lentil Stew

Close-up image of vegan mushroom lentil stew in a bowl.
Easy Mushroom Lentil Stew. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Vegan Mushroom Lentil Stew is a hearty, one-pot meal that’s simple to make. This budget-friendly fall meal is perfect for family dinners, providing a nutritious option that everyone will appreciate.
Get the Recipe: Easy Mushroom Lentil Stew

Slow Cooker Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo

Slow cooker chicken fettucine alfredo witha fork on a plate.
Slow Cooker Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Slow-cooker chicken fettuccine alfredo is easy to prepare and pairs well with a crisp salad. As a budget-friendly fall meal, it delivers comfort and flavor, making it a great option for those cooler evenings.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo

Leftover Mashed Potato Pancakes

Two mashed potato pancakes on white plates topped with fried eggs, sauteed mushrooms, spinach, and fresh herbs.
Leftover Mashed Potato Pancakes. Photo credit: fantastic food.

Transform leftover mashed potatoes into crispy potato pancakes topped with fried eggs for a quick meal. Ready in just 15 minutes, this budget-friendly fall meal creatively uses leftovers without compromising taste.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Mashed Potato Pancakes

Copycat Ruth's Chris Stuffed Chicken

A picture of stuffed chicken breast with paprika.
Copycat Ruth's Chris Stuffed Chicken. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life.

Stuffed chicken with cream cheese, cheddar, and ranch seasoning offers a way to enjoy restaurant-style dining at home. This budget-friendly fall meal delivers bold flavors without a hefty price tag.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Ruth's Chris Stuffed Chicken

Brisket Chili

Brisket chili in a bowl topede with green onions and avocado.
Brisket Chili. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Brisket chili, made from leftover beef brisket, beans, peppers, and corn, is a hearty dinner choice. This comforting dish stretches leftovers into a filling and budget-friendly fall meal everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Brisket Chili

Baked Skillet Gnocchi

Gnocchi with ground pork, tomatoes, mozzarella and spinach in a cast iron skillet.
Baked Skillet Gnocchi. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Gnocchi paired with ground pork, crushed tomatoes, spinach, and melted mozzarella makes for a comforting one-skillet meal. This budget-friendly fall dinner is both filling and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Baked Skillet Gnocchi

Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

A casserole dish filled with pasta and peas.
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Tuna noodle casserole is a straightforward dish that's ready in under an hour. This budget-friendly fall meal is perfect for weeknight family dinners and reheats well, making leftovers a convenient choice.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

Hashbrown casserole being served.
Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cheesy hashbrown casserole is comforting and perfect for chilly nights. It’s an easy way to use up leftover potatoes and create a budget-friendly fall meal that's packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

More Super-Easy Fall Dinners

An overhead view of a cooked spicy vodka pasta in a white plate.
Spicy Vodka Pasta (with or without vodka!). Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Enjoy cozy fall dinners with 40 super-easy recipes perfect for anyone, offering great flavors without the hours in the kitchen!
Read it Here: 40 Super-Easy Fall Dinners That Non-Cooks Can Totally Nail

More Fall Comfort Dinners

An image of Vegetarian Stew.
Vegetarian Stew. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Warm up this fall with 29 one-pot comfort dinners that are easy to make, saving you time and cleanup while satisfying your cravings!
Read it Here: 29 Fall Comfort Dinners You Can Make in Just One Pot

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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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