• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Parallel Plates
  • About
  • Contact
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Soups
    • Sides
    • Desserts
  • Resources
menu icon
go to homepage
  • About
  • Contact
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Soups
    • Sides
    • Desserts
  • Resources
search icon
Homepage link
  • About
  • Contact
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Soups
    • Sides
    • Desserts
  • Resources
×
Home » Dinner

32 Quick Fall Dinners You Can Make in Under 20 Minutes

Published: Oct 4, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Quick fall dinners don't have to be a hassle, and with these recipes, you’ll have a meal on the table in under 20 minutes. Whether you're juggling a busy schedule or just don't feel like spending hours in the kitchen, these dishes are simple, fast, and packed with flavor. Perfect for those cool evenings when you want something easy yet satisfying. Get ready to breeze through dinner prep without sacrificing taste.

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

Easy Homemade Margherita Pizza

Close-up image of sliced homemade Margherita pizza.
Easy Homemade Margherita Pizza. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

This quick homemade Margherita pizza features fresh ingredients and comes together in just 20 minutes. It's perfect for busy weeknights when you need a simple yet flavorful meal for a fast fall dinner.
Get the Recipe: Easy Homemade Margherita Pizza

Kimchi Grilled Cheese

An image of a sliced kimchi grilled cheese sandwich resting on the other slice.
Kimchi Grilled Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Kimchi grilled cheese brings tangy kimchi and creamy cheese together between crispy sourdough slices. Ready in just 20 minutes, this fusion spin on a classic makes it a great choice for a quick and easy fall dinner idea.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Grilled Cheese

Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash

A close up image of a spaghetti squash scraped out by a spoon placed on a white plate.
Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Instant Pot spaghetti squash makes for tender squash with minimal effort and maximum taste. In under 20 minutes, this healthy side dish is perfect for a quick weeknight fall dinner when you want to add some vegetables without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash

Spicy Vodka Pasta

An overhead view of a cooked spicy vodka pasta in a white plate.
Spicy Vodka Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Spicy vodka pasta, made with or without vodka, delivers versatility and rich flavors. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, offering an adaptable option for both vegan and vegetarian fall meals.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Vodka Pasta

One Pot Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Straight view of cooked one-pot lemon ricotta pasta garnished with rocket and fresh basil leaves placed in a white plate with a fork on the side.
One Pot Lemon Ricotta Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

One-pot lemon ricotta pasta combines creamy texture and a bright citrus flavor, ready in just 15 minutes. It's perfect for busy weeknights, delivering quick fall dinners that feel a bit special but remain easy to make.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Rigatoni Arrabbiata

Overhead view of rigatoni arrabbiata dish placed on a white plate and baking dish. 
Rigatoni Arrabbiata. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Rigatoni arrabbiata, made with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil, delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. In just under 20 minutes, this dish is a reliable choice for quick weeknight dinners that are flavorful and simple to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Rigatoni Arrabbiata

Penne Pomodoro

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

Penne Pomodoro is a fast, budget-friendly pasta option that comes together in a flash. Ideal for busy weeknights, this simple dish lets you put a nutritious fall dinner on the table without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Penne Pomodoro

Fettuccine Alfredo

A close up image of pair of cooking tongs serving a portion of Fettuccine Alfredo into a bowl.
Fettuccine Alfredo. Photo credit: Erren's Kitchen.

In just 20 minutes, this easy pasta recipe brings authentic Italian flavors to your dinner plate. It’s a practical choice for a fast weeknight meal, perfect when you crave a taste of Italy on a busy fall evening.
Get the Recipe: Fettuccine Alfredo

Sheet Pan Honey Soy Cashew Chicken

Sheet Pan Honey Soy Cashew Chicken with sesame seeds and chopsticks.
Sheet Pan Honey Soy Cashew Chicken. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

Sheet pan honey soy cashew chicken is easy to make and leaves you with minimal cleanup. With just 20 minutes in the oven, it’s a great choice for quick fall dinners when time and effort are limited.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Honey Soy Cashew Chicken

Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle

Overhead view of sizzling Thai pork green beans on a Blackstone griddle with a fried egg on top.
Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Stir-frying on an outdoor griddle brings smoky flavors to your plate with minimal prep. Ready in under 20 minutes, this method is perfect for adding variety to quick weeknight dinners in the fall.
Get the Recipe: Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle

Sheet Pan Mediterranean Roasted Lamb

A photo of a sheet pan Mediterranean roast lamb with chickpeas and cherry tomatoes.
Sheet Pan Mediterranean Roasted Lamb. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Mediterranean roasted lamb is a quick sheet pan meal that delivers robust flavor in just 20 minutes. It's a perfect option for easy fall dinners, keeping prep time minimal while still providing a satisfying main dish.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Mediterranean Roasted Lamb

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

A plate of air fryer chicken tenders with a dip.
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Air fryer chicken tenders offer a no-mess, crispy dinner with minimal effort. Ready in just 20 minutes, they’re great for busy weeknights when you need something fast, flavorful, and kid-friendly.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Sweet and Spicy Quinoa Peanut Stir Fry

Top view of sweet and spicy quinoa peanut stir fry.
Sweet and Spicy Quinoa Peanut Stir Fry. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Sweet and spicy quinoa peanut stir-fry combines bold flavors with a nutritious twist, ready in under 20 minutes. It’s an excellent choice for quick fall weeknight dinners that pack in a healthy balance without sacrificing taste.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Spicy Quinoa Peanut Stir Fry

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

A plate of garlic butter chicken bites.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites come together quickly on the stovetop, offering a simple yet rich flavor. With just 20 minutes of cook time, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners when you need a satisfying dish fast.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Air Fryer Mongolian Beef

Closeup of crispy beef in a bowl with green onions and sesame seeds.
Air Fryer Mongolian Beef. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Mongolian beef in the air fryer is ready in just 20 minutes, featuring tender beef coated in a sweet and savory sauce. This is an easy weeknight fall dinner that brings restaurant flavors straight to your home kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Mongolian Beef

Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

A picture of cabbage stir fry in cast iron skillet.
Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Ground beef and cabbage stir-fry is an easy weeknight game changer, ready in under 20 minutes. Perfect for fall dinners, this recipe provides a hearty, quick option that’s both filling and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

Sheet Pan Steak Fajitas

Baking tray with cooked steak, bell peppers, and veggies with a steel bowl of fresh tomatoes in the middle and flour tortillas folded to the side.
Sheet Pan Steak Fajitas. Photo credit: Fitasamamabear.

Sheet pan steak fajitas with lean beef, fresh vegetables, and homemade spices come together in 20 minutes. It's a convenient option for easy weeknight fall dinners that require minimal effort but deliver a punch of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Steak Fajitas

Air Fryer Chicken Breast Strips

Air Fryer Chicken Breast Strips on a white plate with white sauce.
Air Fryer Chicken Breast Strips. Photo credit: Chicken Air Fryer Recipes.

Air fryer chicken breast strips are juicy and flavorful, ready in just 20 minutes. They’re an excellent choice for quick weeknight dinners in the fall, providing a healthy meal without the fuss of extensive cooking.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Breast Strips

Sheet Pan Salmon and Asparagus

Sheet Pan Salmon Asparagus on a parchment paper lined sheet pan.
Sheet Pan Salmon and Asparagus. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Baked salmon and asparagus is a healthy sheet pan meal that's ready in 20 minutes. It's perfect for easy weeknight dinners when you need a nutritious and satisfying meal with minimal prep.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Salmon and Asparagus

Shrimp Lo Mein

Shrimp lo mein in a skillet with chopped green onions in a white bowl on the side.
Shrimp Lo Mein. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Shrimp lo mein brings classic flavors to your kitchen in just minutes, offering a quick alternative to takeout. This recipe is a perfect fit for a fast fall dinner, combining ease of preparation with a flavorful result.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Lo Mein

20 Minute Chicken Caesar Flatbread

Small flatbread toped with salad and chicken.
20 Minute Chicken Caesar Flatbread. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

Chicken Caesar Flatbread uses store-bought flatbread and cooked chicken to create a fast, filling meal. This recipe is perfect for quick weeknight dinners, offering a no-fuss option for those busy fall evenings.
Get the Recipe: 20 Minute Chicken Caesar Flatbread

Hunan Chicken

Hunan chicken with rice and chopsticks on a plate.
Hunan Chicken. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Seared chicken breast and stir-fried vegetables in a spicy sauce make for a quick and satisfying fall stir-fry. Ready in under 20 minutes, this recipe is a great choice when you need a balanced meal in minimal time.
Get the Recipe: Hunan Chicken

Grilled Flank Steak with Chile Butter

Sliced flank steak with chili butter.
Grilled Flank Steak with Chile Butter. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Grilled flank steak topped with a chili butter sauce brings bold, satisfying flavors to the dinner table in just 20 minutes. This recipe is a straightforward solution for weeknight fall dinners that feel indulgent without the effort.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Flank Steak with Chile Butter

Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

A pan of beef and broccoli stir fry with a brown sauce.
Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry. Photo credit: Erren's Kitchen.

Marinated steak with broccoli stir-fry is a fast, hearty dish that brings fresh ingredients to the table in no time. It’s a perfect choice for fall weeknight dinners when you want a flavorful, nutrient-packed meal without waiting long.
Get the Recipe: Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce

Lettuce wraps filled with shredded chicken, shredded carrots, and peanut sauce on a plate.
Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce. Photo credit: fANNEtastic food.

Lettuce wraps with shredded rotisserie chicken, crunchy veggies, and peanut sauce are a healthy dinner that comes together quickly. Perfect for quick fall dinners, they deliver a light but flavorful meal with minimal prep.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce

Cheeseburger Skillet Dinner

A picture of ketchup over cheesy onion and ground beef skillet dinner.
Cheeseburger Skillet Dinner. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Cheeseburger Skillet Dinner offers all the flavors of a cheeseburger without the bun, made in just one pan. Ready in 20 minutes, it’s perfect for easy weeknight fall dinners that bring comfort food to the table without much time.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Skillet Dinner

Easy Air Fryer Ranch Chicken Tenders

Easy Air Fryer Ranch Chicken Tenders on a black plate with dill.
Easy Air Fryer Ranch Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Chicken Air Fryer Recipes.

Air fryer ranch chicken tenders offer a crispy texture with very little prep, making them a kid-friendly dinner in just 20 minutes. Perfect for quick weeknight meals, these tenders keep the cooking stress-free for busy fall evenings.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Ranch Chicken Tenders

Chicken Stir Fry

A white plate with chicken and mushrooms in a sauce.
Chicken Stir Fry. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

This quick stir-fry recipe brings together simple ingredients in just 20 minutes, making it a practical fall meal choice. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that offers both hearty flavors and a minimal cooking time.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Stir Fry

Golden Noodles

Someone holding a bowl of silky golden noodles with chopsticks.
Golden Noodles. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Silky noodles are coated in a luscious sauce made with Earth Echo Golden Superfood Bliss, creating a flavorful experience. This quick, plant-based recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners that require a fast but wholesome option.
Get the Recipe: Golden Noodles

Green Chile Chicken with Leftover Shredded Chicken Thighs

Green chile chicken in a pan with a wooden spoon.
Green Chile Chicken with Leftover Shredded Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Green Chile Chicken made with shredded chicken thighs is a fast, one-skillet dinner that’s ready in 20 minutes. It’s perfect for quick weeknight meals when you need a hearty dish without extra steps.
Get the Recipe: Green Chile Chicken with Leftover Shredded Chicken Thighs

Skillet Chicken Thighs, Bacon, and Green Beans

Skillet Chicken Thighs, Bacon, and Green Beans in a white bowl with a fork.
Skillet Chicken Thighs, Bacon, and Green Beans. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Skillet Chicken Thighs with bacon and green beans deliver a nutritious one-pan meal in 20 minutes. It’s an excellent choice for quick weeknight dinners that bring together savory flavors with minimal cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Chicken Thighs, Bacon, and Green Beans

Air Fryer Butternut Squash

Plate of butternut squash in front of an air fryer with a blue napkin in the background.
Air Fryer Butternut Squash. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Air fryer butternut squash makes for a savory, roasted side dish ready in just 20 minutes. It’s a simple addition to your weeknight fall dinners, providing a healthy, flavorful complement to any main course.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Butternut Squash

Quick and Easy Chicken Recipes

Top view of Air Fryer Bruschetta Stuffed Chicken Breasts.
Air Fryer Bruschetta Stuffed Chicken Breasts. Photo Credit: xoxoBella

Discover 31 quick and easy chicken recipes perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy delicious flavors without the hassle!

Read it Here: 31 Quick and Easy Chicken Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Fall Comfort Dinners

An image of instant pot corn chowder in a bowl with a spoon resting on the side.
Instant Pot Corn Chowder. Photo Credit: Urban Farmie

Discover 29 cozy one-pot fall dinners that save time and cleanup, perfect for hearty, comforting meals on busy nights.

Read it Here: 29 Fall Comfort Dinners You Can Make in Just One Pot

More Dinner

  • Barbacoa tacos on a tray topped with peppers and onions.
    The slow cooker pays off with these 26 dinners
  • Slices of Holiday Beef Wellington on a wooden board.
    40 dinners that make Valentine’s night unforgettable
  • Overhead image of sliced italian steak with sauce on a plate.
    39 steak dinners that make any night feel special
  • An image of a sheet pan piri piri or peri peri chicken with green beans and sweet potatoes.
    20 sheet pan dinners that let the oven do all the work for you

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Primary Sidebar

Close up headshot

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.

More about me →

Popular

  • An overhead image of Pasta alla Norma in a bowl with another bowl of pasta on the side.
    These 21 easy May dinners practically cook themselves
  • An image of vegan nicoise salad served on a big bowl.
    25 fresh May recipes that taste like spring on a plate
  • An overhead image of tofu bowl.
    A week of dinners, solved: 20 recipes that actually work on busy nights
  • An image of Pasta e Piselli served in a bowl.
    These 19 recipes deliver big flavor with minimal effort

Footer

↑ back to top

About

  • Privacy Policy
  • Disclosure & Terms of Use
  • Cookie Policy
  • Accessibility Policy

Newsletter

  • Sign Up!

Contact

  • Contact

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Copyright © 2024 Black Bicycle LLC