11 of Our Favorite Fall Family Dinners

The changing seasons, the darker evenings, the hectic schedules…there is just something about fall that always feels like we are rushing. Family dinner is important to us and today we are sharing some of our favorite fall family dinners in case you need a little inspiration.

Family Meals

We love gathering around the table most nights during the week for dinner. While we are aware this isn’t a possibility for everyone (jobs, night shifts, live alone, etc) it’s something we don’t take for granted and are grateful for.

Did you grow up having family dinners? My husband and I met as teenagers and he would come over to my house and couldn’t believe we had dinner together every night. There was lots of talking, finding out about everyone’s day and always lots of laughs. Since starting our own family, it’s absolutely one of our favorite times to check in with the kids.

The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health shares that “When families sit down together for dinner, adolescents and young adults eat more fruits and vegetables and consume fewer fast-food and takeout items”. 

The Mediterranean diet Food Guide Pyramid also encourages eating meals socially. So if your family isn’t available, friends and neighbors work just as well.

Favorite Fall Family Dinners

The following recipes are some of our favorite meals to enjoy as a family once fall rolls around. Many are quick to cook and feature Seasonal Ingredients.

Check out our 8 Favorite Fall Salads for even more great, seasonal recipes.

Italian Chicken Bake

My mom used to make this when we were kids and it’s been on rotation ever since. Everything cooks in a single pan and features budget friendly canned goods like tomatoes, olives and artichoke hearts. Lightly seasoned with a blend of dried spices, it’s quick but delicious.

Eggplant and Turkey Baked Meatballs

Spaghetti and meatballs are a weeknight go to in our house. They are simple and everyone loves them. These Baked Meatballs feature a little bit of roasted eggplant inside and are made with ground turkey instead of beef. Save even more time by prepping them ahead of time and freezing for later.

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rolls

What kid doesn’t love crescent rolls and melted cheese? We add a little bit of lean protein thanks to the chicken and some broccoli adds fiber and vitamins. These are fun and cook quickly, making it perfect for weeknights.

Slow Cooker Fajita Recipe

The slow cooker is my favorite during fall. Not only does it save time, but the whole house smells amazing while it’s cooking. These Slow Cooker Fajitas are an easy dinner that you can customize to your family’s preferences.

Baked Fish Sticks

Crispy and tender, these baked fish sticks are a great family dinner but also a delicious wya to get your recommended two servings of fish per week.

The zesty ketchup dipping sauce is a must!

More Family Meal Ideas

We try to mix it up at dinner time by trying new recipes or adding variety. However there are certain things that we find ourselves gravitating towards. Even though we don’t have a “recipe”, these are some great family meals –

• Tacos – quick, always a favorite and easy to customize
• Tomato Soup and Sandwiches
• Breakfast for dinner

We don’t have many casseroles but it’s a goal to find more that we enjoy as a family this fall. Some recipes that I’m excited to test out include –

• Creamy Chicken Alfredo Casserole from Southern Living
• French Onion Soup Casserole
• Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole with Butternut Squash from Well Plated