Hey everyone, Jason Griffith here from Chef Maniac! As the leaves start to turn and there’s that crisp chill in the air, my cravings instantly shift towards warm, comforting meals. It’s the season for cozy nights in, and that means bringing out the dishes that are both deeply satisfying and incredibly easy to make. Today, I’m sharing the Most Searched Fall Weeknight Dinner – a recipe that perfectly embodies everything we love about autumn cooking: rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and minimal fuss.

Why I Love This Recipe

This recipe is a true fall favorite in my home, and I’m positive it will become one for you too. I love it because it’s a genuine one-pot (or almost one-pot) wonder, which means fewer dishes to clean up after a busy day. It’s packed with comforting, autumnal flavors that are perfect for warming you up from the inside out. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and budget-friendly, making it a reliable choice for any busy evening. This dish truly captures the essence of fall in a delicious, no-stress meal that consistently hits the spot.

List of Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting fall weeknight dinner:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground turkey or ground beef
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained (or 1 cup frozen corn)
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary (crushed if whole leaves)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 cup medium egg noodles or ditalini, uncooked
• Optional garnish: Fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese

Swaps and Notes

• Ground Meat: Ground turkey offers a leaner option, but ground beef provides a richer flavor. Ground sausage (like a mild Italian) can also be a delicious substitute.
• Vegetables: This recipe is very adaptable. Feel free to swap in other fall vegetables like diced sweet potato (add with carrots and celery), cubed butternut squash, or even a handful of chopped spinach (stir in at the very end).
• Broth: Chicken broth works beautifully, but beef or vegetable broth can also be used.
• Herbs & Spices: Adjust the thyme, smoked paprika, and rosemary to your preference. A tiny pinch of nutmeg can enhance the autumnal feel, or a dash of red pepper flakes for a subtle warmth.
• Pasta: Egg noodles are comforting and cook quickly. Small shells or ditalini are also excellent choices.

List of Steps for the Recipe

1. Brown the Meat: In a large Dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey (or beef) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess fat.
2. Sauté Aromatics & Veggies: Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery to the pot with the browned meat. Cook over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add Liquids & Seasonings: Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), drained corn, rinsed black beans, chicken broth, dried thyme, smoked paprika, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well to combine.
4. Simmer & Flavor Meld: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen beautifully.
5. Cook the Pasta: Stir in the uncooked egg noodles. Make sure the pasta is mostly submerged in the sauce. Bring the mixture back to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for another 8-10 minutes, or according to pasta package directions, until the noodles are tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Season & Serve: Remove the pot from the heat. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. If desired, garnish with fresh chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Rush Browning: Getting a good sear on the ground meat adds a crucial layer of flavor to the entire dish.
• Rinse Beans: Rinsing canned beans removes excess sodium and starch, which can lead to a cleaner flavor profile.
• Simmer Time Matters: Even for a “quick” recipe, the 15-20 minute initial simmer is important for developing deep flavors.
• Watch the Pasta: Pasta cooks quickly in the sauce. Stir occasionally and check for doneness to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Adjust Liquid: If the dish seems too thick before adding the pasta, add a splash more broth. If it’s too soupy after the pasta cooks, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This hearty fall dinner is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with:

• Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of bread or a side of cornbread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette would provide a refreshing contrast.
• Fall Dessert: For a sweet ending, consider pairing it with my favorite Easy Pumpkin Spice Muffins.

Storage and Leftover Tips

Leftovers of this Fall Weeknight Dinner are fantastic – often tasting even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld! Store any cooled portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, the pasta will have absorbed more liquid, so you’ll likely need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave. This dish also freezes exceptionally well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

More Recipes You Will Love

If you loved the comforting, hearty nature of this Fall Weeknight Dinner, you’ll definitely want to explore some of my other favorite one-pot wonders and comforting family meals:

• For a quick and satisfying dinner packed with Southern goodness, my Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage is a go-to.
• If you’re craving some deep, comforting Southern flavors, my Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo is an absolute must-try.
• For another fantastic one-pan dinner that’s incredibly convenient and always a hit, my Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole is a lifesaver.
• And if you’re looking for ultimate comfort food made fast, don’t miss my Instant Pot Lasagna.

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Final Thoughts

This Most Searched Fall Weeknight Dinner is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to embrace the cozy, comforting flavors of autumn with ease. It’s hearty, adaptable, and profoundly satisfying – the perfect solution for those moments when you need a delicious meal on the table, fast. Give it a try, and let this simple yet robust dish become a new tradition in your fall cooking!

What are your favorite fall ingredients to cook with for a comforting meal? Share your ideas in the comments below! And for more delicious, easy recipes, be sure to follow Chef Maniac.