Stuck wondering what's for dinner tonight? We've got your back! Here's a month full of delicious, family-friendly mains to cook up this October.
Your October Meal Plan
Updated on Oct. 05, 2024
1/31
Day 1: Italian Pasta Bake
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Main Ingredients: Ground beef, spaghetti sauce, pasta shells
Level: Intermediate
Main Ingredients: Ground beef, spaghetti sauce, pasta shells
Level: Intermediate
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 489 calories, 20g fat (8g saturated fat), 80mg cholesterol, 702mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 5g fiber), 32g protein.
This Italian pasta bake recipe calls for ground beef, pasta shells, canned tomatoes and a few other ingredients, but can be easily swapped out to customize the dish. Both baked and unbaked Italian pasta casserole freeze well.
I love to make this pasta bake whenever I need to bring a dish to pass. Fresh tomatoes add a nice touch that’s missing from most other meat, pasta and tomato casseroles. —Recipe contributor Karla Johnson, East Helena, Montana
2/31
Day 2: Slow-Cooker Meat Loaf
Total Time
3 hours 25 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Total Time: 3 hours 25 minutes
Main Ingredients: Ground beef, pork sausage, tomato sauce
Level: Intermediate
Main Ingredients: Ground beef, pork sausage, tomato sauce
Level: Intermediate
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 284 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 119mg cholesterol, 681mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 1g fiber), 24g protein.
Slow-cooker meat loaf is juicy, full-flavored, and easy to prepare. This hands-off dish cooks in the background, and cleanup is a breeze.
This simple, easy-to-make meat loaf is one of my personal favorites. I’m often asked for the recipe. —Recipe contributor Laura Burgess, Mount Vernon, South Dakota
3/31
Day 3: Potato Kielbasa Skillet
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Total Time: 30 minutes
Main Ingredients: Potatoes, kielbasa, spinach
Level: Beginner
Main Ingredients: Potatoes, kielbasa, spinach
Level: Beginner
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 472 calories, 31g fat (10g saturated fat), 66mg cholesterol, 873mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 3g fiber), 17g protein.
This one-pan potato kielbasa skillet combines tender potatoes, smoky kielbasa and fresh spinach in a brown sugar sauce for a satisfying weeknight dinner that’s ready in less than 30 minutes.
No need to hunt through kielbasa and potato recipes, this smoky take steals the show as a hearty home-style, all-in-one meal. It’s especially perfect on those cold late fall and early winter nights. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
4/31
Day 4: Butternut Squash Chili
Total Time
50 min
Servings
8 servings (2 quarts)
From the Recipe Creator:
Total Time: 50 minutes
Main Ingredients: Butternut squash, tomato sauce, black beans, pinto beans
Level: Beginner
Main Ingredients: Butternut squash, tomato sauce, black beans, pinto beans
Level: Beginner
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 261 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 35mg cholesterol, 704mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 8g fiber), 18g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 lean meat.
This contest-winning chili recipe features butternut squash as a new addition to a traditional beef-and-bean chili. The sweet, autumnal flavor of the butternut squash balances the spicy, tangy notes in the dish.
Add butternut squash to chili for a tasty, filling, energy-packed dish your whole family will love. Mine does! —Recipe contributor Jeanne Larson, Mission Viejo, California
5/31
Day 5: Slow-Cooker Stuffed Peppers
Total Time
3 hours 15 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Main Ingredients: Red peppers, black beans, pepper jack cheese
Level: Beginner
Main Ingredients: Red peppers, black beans, pepper jack cheese
Level: Beginner
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed pepper: 317 calories, 10g fat (5g saturated fat), 30mg cholesterol, 565mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 8g fiber), 15g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 vegetable, 2 lean meat, 1 fat.
Bursting with a savory blend of black beans, corn, salsa, rice and gooey pepper jack cheese, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a laid-back weekend dinner.
My favorite kitchen appliance is the slow cooker, and I use mine more than anyone else I know. It does a great job with this good-for-you dish. —Recipe contributor Michelle Gurnsey, Lincoln, Nebraska
6/31
Day 6: The Cheesecake Factory Pasta da Vinci
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Total Time: 1 hour
Main Ingredients: Penne pasta, cream cheese, mushrooms, beef broth
Level: Intermediate
Main Ingredients: Penne pasta, cream cheese, mushrooms, beef broth
Level: Intermediate
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 634 calories, 31g fat (16g saturated fat), 118mg cholesterol, 706mg sodium, 49g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 30g protein.
At The Cheesecake Factory, Pasta da Vinci is one of the most popular items on the menu. Their version uses a rich Marsala wine sauce, but this recipe works just fine with dry white wine.
I fell in love with this dish at the Cheesecake Factory and experimented with the ingredients until I could duplicate it. I think mine is just as good if not better! The sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated or frozen. Thaw if frozen and warm gently in a large skillet. Cook pasta and you have a delicious dinner on a weeknight. —Recipe contributor Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho
7/31
Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole
Total Time
50 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
While this special chicken and wild rice casserole is perfect for a company dinner, it's so good that I often make it for everyday family meals. We think it is very nice served with some crusty rolls or French bread. —Elizabeth Tokariuk, Lethbridge, Alberta
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 382 calories, 19g fat (8g saturated fat), 98mg cholesterol, 878mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 27g protein.
8/31
Day 8: Beef Burgundy Over Noodles
Total Time
1 hour 30 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Main Ingredients: Sirloin steak, mushrooms, egg noodles, beef broth
Level: Beginner
Main Ingredients: Sirloin steak, mushrooms, egg noodles, beef broth
Level: Beginner
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 376 calories, 10g fat (5g saturated fat), 88mg cholesterol, 391mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 32g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
Tender meat in a rich, savory sauce is placed on top of egg noodles for an elegant dinner. The sauce is not overly thick, but still coats the noodles nicely.
I got this delightful beef burgundy recipe from my sister-in-law many years ago and have used it ever since. Whenever I serve it to guests, they always request this. The tender beef, mushrooms and flavorful sauce are delicious over noodles. —Recipe contributor Margaret Welder, Madrid, Iowa
9/31
Day 9: Parmesan Tilapia
Total Time
20 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Total Time: 20 minutes
Main Ingredients: Tilapia, Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes
Level: Beginner
Main Ingredients: Tilapia, Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes
Level: Beginner
Nutrition Facts:
1 fillet: 179 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 89mg cholesterol, 191mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 35g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 very lean meat, 1/2 fat.
Flaky, tender and full of cheesy Italian flavor, this Parmesan tilapia recipe hits the spot when you’re craving a mild fish dish with a bit of a bite. It’s easy to make and doesn’t require many ingredients or steps.
My husband and I are always looking for light fish recipes because of their health benefits. This one’s a hit with him, and we’ve served it at dinner parties too. It’s become a staple! —Recipe contributor Michelle Martin, Durham, North Carolina
10/31
Cornbread Taco Bake
Total Time
45 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Cornbread and beef bake together in one casserole dish, making this entree convenient. This Mexican cornbread casserole is packed with tempting seasonings, and the cheese and onions make an attractive topping. —Vicki Good, Oscoda, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 541 calories, 26g fat (9g saturated fat), 95mg cholesterol, 1491mg sodium, 48g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 5g fiber), 28g protein.
11/31
Day 11: Southwestern Casserole
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
2 casseroles (6 servings each)
From the Recipe Creator:
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Main Ingredients: Elbow macaroni, ground beef, diced tomatoes, kidney beans
Level: Intermediate
Main Ingredients: Elbow macaroni, ground beef, diced tomatoes, kidney beans
Level: Intermediate
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 321 calories, 15g fat (7g saturated fat), 64mg cholesterol, 673mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 24g protein.
This baked pasta is similar to a chili with its diced tomatoes, beans and cheese. It has a bit of kick from jalapeño peppers.
I’ve been making this mild family-pleasing southwest casserole for years. It tastes wonderful and fits nicely into our budget. Best of all, the recipe makes a second casserole to freeze and enjoy later. —Recipe contributor Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
12/31
Day 12: Beef Tenderloin and Mushroom Sauce
Total Time
25 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Total Time: 25 minutes
Main Ingredients: Beef tenderloin steaks, mushrooms, butter, chicken broth
Level: Beginner
Main Ingredients: Beef tenderloin steaks, mushrooms, butter, chicken broth
Level: Beginner
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 417 calories, 32g fat (17g saturated fat), 112mg cholesterol, 659mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 26g protein.
Beef tenderloins are used for this recipe because they are decadent and will melt in your mouth once seared in butter. The flavorful drippings from the pan create the base for the creamy gravy topping.
When our kids are visiting Grandma, I make this recipe for just my husband and myself. It’s a recipe my mother-in-law has been using for more than 30 years. I especially look forward to preparing it as part of a special Valentine’s Day menu. —Recipe contributor Denise McNab, Warminster, Pennsylvania
13/31
Day 13: Cheeseburger Soup
Total Time
55 min
Servings
8 servings (2 quarts)
From the Recipe Creator:
Total Time: 55 minutes
Main Ingredients: Ground beef, potatoes, Velveeta
Level: Intermediate
Main Ingredients: Ground beef, potatoes, Velveeta
Level: Intermediate
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 354 calories, 20g fat (11g saturated fat), 70mg cholesterol, 1012mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 3g fiber), 14g protein.
This creamy, cheesy soup perfectly captures the flavor of your favorite diner burger. A few hearty add-ins like carrots, celery and potatoes add to the soup’s warm and comforting vibes.
A local restaurant serves a similar cheeseburger soup but wouldn’t share its recipe with me. I developed my own, modifying a recipe I already had for potato soup. I was really pleased with the way this all-American dish turned out. —Recipe contributor Joanie Shawhan, Madison, Wisconsin
14/31
Day 14: Meatless Chili Mac
Total Time
40 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Total Time: 40 minutes
Main Ingredients: Elbow macaroni, chili beans, great northern beans, green pepper
Level: Beginner
Main Ingredients: Elbow macaroni, chili beans, great northern beans, green pepper
Level: Beginner
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 206 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 1mg cholesterol, 651mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 9g fiber), 10g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1 vegetable,1 lean meat.
Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this hearty, savory chili mac is a vegetarian-friendly meal everyone will love. It’s a hearty dish without any meat.
I came across this recipe in a newspaper years ago and it’s been a hit at our house ever since. It’s fast and flavorful, and it appeals to all ages. —Recipe contributor Cindy Ragan, North Huntingdon, Pennsylvania
15/31
Day 15: Pork Chops and Noodles
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Total Time: 30 minutes
Main Ingredients: Egg noodles, pork loin chops, beef broth
Level: Beginner
Main Ingredients: Egg noodles, pork loin chops, beef broth
Level: Beginner
Nutrition Facts:
1 pork chop with 1 cup noodles: 642 calories, 32g fat (14g saturated fat), 179mg cholesterol, 1175mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 44g protein.
Inspired by classic European flavors, the combination of mustards and cream cheese in the sauce gives the dish a unique richness similar to traditional noodle dishes like beef stroganoff or chicken Alfredo. It’s a quick and satisfying meal for any night of the week.
A fast, creamy skillet sauce dresses up everyday pork chops and noodles. Chicken also works well with this recipe and the zesty mix of mustards. —Recipe contributor Margaret Bracher, Robertsdale, Alabama
16/31
Day 16: Pumpkin Lasagna
Total Time
1 hour 20 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Main Ingredients: Canned pumpkin, lasagna noodles, ricotta cheese
Level: Intermediate
Main Ingredients: Canned pumpkin, lasagna noodles, ricotta cheese
Level: Intermediate
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 310 calories, 12g fat (6g saturated fat), 36mg cholesterol, 497mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 5g fiber), 17g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 fat, 1 lean meat.
Canned pumpkin isn’t just for desserts. This savory and cheesy lasagna also has onion and mushrooms added in for more depth.
I especially like this comforting fall dish because it’s vegetarian. Even friends who aren’t big fans of pumpkin are surprised by this delectable lasagna. Canned pumpkin and no-cook noodles make it a cinch to prepare. —Recipe contributor Tamara Huron, New Market, Alabama
17/31
Day 17: Meatball Stroganoff
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Total Time: 30 minutes
Main Ingredients: Egg noodles, Italian meatballs, beef broth, sour cream
Level: Beginner
Main Ingredients: Egg noodles, Italian meatballs, beef broth, sour cream
Level: Beginner
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 717 calories, 57g fat (30g saturated fat), 172mg cholesterol, 1291mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 20g protein.
A quick and delicious twist on the classic, this meatball stroganoff uses frozen meatballs to get dinner on the table in just 30 minutes. It can easily feed a crowd if doubled.
This recipe has fed not only my own family, but many neighborhood kids! They come running when I make this supper. It’s one of those things you throw together after work on a busy day because you know it works. —Recipe contributor Julie May, Hattiesburg, Mississippi
18/31
Day 18: Spanish Chicken and Rice
Total Time
1 hour 20 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Main Ingredients: Broiler chicken, rice, onion, green pepper
Level: Beginner
Main Ingredients: Broiler chicken, rice, onion, green pepper
Level: Beginner
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 345 calories, 12 g fat (3 g saturated fat), 73 mg cholesterol, 1,448 mg sodium, 30 g carbohydrate, 2 g fiber, 27 g protein.
One-pot Spanish chicken and rice is the perfect meal when you need simplicity but crave flavor and heartiness. It’s delicious on its own, but topping this Spanish chicken and rice casserole with sour cream, homemade guac, beans and corn chips will turn it into a meal that’ll delight even the pickiest of eaters.
My mother has always been an avid cook, and my sister, two brothers and I were raised on this casserole. When I polled our family to see which recipe I should share, this fresh-tasting dish came out on the top. I know you’ll enjoy it as much as we do. —Recipe contributor Cindy Clark, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania
19/31
Day 19: Honey-Garlic Pork Chops
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Total Time: 25 minutes
Main Ingredients: Pork loin chops, honey, garlic, lemon juice
Level: Beginner
Main Ingredients: Pork loin chops, honey, garlic, lemon juice
Level: Beginner
Nutrition Facts:
1 pork chop with 2 tablespoons sauce: 249 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 74mg cholesterol, 342mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (18g sugars, 0 fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 1 starch.
The beauty of this recipe is that you only need four ingredients for the sweet, aromatic glaze that tastes surprisingly complex. There’s no marinating necessary.
The sauce on these honey garlic pork chops is so good, I sometimes double it so there’s extra for dipping whatever veggie we have on the side. —Recipe contributor Michelle Smith, Eldersburg, Maryland
20/31
Day 20: Creamy Lemon Chicken
Total Time
55 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Total Time: 55 minutes
Main Ingredients: Chicken breast, heavy whipping cream, lemon juice
Level: Beginner
Main Ingredients: Chicken breast, heavy whipping cream, lemon juice
Level: Beginner
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 381 calories, 25g fat (15g saturated fat), 129mg cholesterol, 488mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 27g protein.
Our creamy lemon chicken elevates simple chicken breasts into a restaurant-worthy meal. The magic of this recipe lies in its velvety cream sauce—a delicious blend of chicken broth, heavy cream and acidic lemon juice that coats each piece of chicken perfectly.
If you want an entree that’s quick, easy and elegant, you can’t beat this one. The lemon cream sauce is what makes it irresistible. It goes so nicely with the chicken and mushrooms. —Recipe contributor Mary Anne McWhirter, Pearland, Texas
21/31
Day 21: Chicken a la King
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Total Time: 25 minutes
Main Ingredients: Biscuits, chicken, mushrooms, onion
Level: Beginner
Main Ingredients: Biscuits, chicken, mushrooms, onion
Level: Beginner
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 551 calories, 34g fat (15g saturated fat), 110mg cholesterol, 1185mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 2g fiber), 29g protein.
Few comfort foods match the power of chicken, biscuits and gravy. By using store-bought frozen biscuits and precooked chicken, you cut out most of the work, but you won’t lose any of the flavor.
I’ve been making this thick and creamy Chicken a la King recipe for over 30 years. It’s a wonderful way to create a quick lunch or dinner with leftover chicken. —Recipe contributor Ruth Lee, Troy, Ontario
22/31
Day 22: Ground Pork Pasta
Total Time
30 min
Servings
5 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Total Time: 30 minutes
Main Ingredients: Penne pasta, ground pork, tomato sauce
Level: Beginner
Main Ingredients: Penne pasta, ground pork, tomato sauce
Level: Beginner
Nutrition Facts:
1.330 cups: 317 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 61mg cholesterol, 408mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 21g protein.
Similar to a ragu or bolognese, this pasta swaps traditional ground beef for juicy, flavorful ground pork. It’s a leaner, less rich option.
Some people call it dinner hour, but many of us call it rush hour. Slow down the pace with this so-simple mouthwatering ground pork meal. The only thing you’ll have left over is time to share with your family at the table. —Recipe contributor Brigitte Schaller, Flemington, Missouri
23/31
Day 23: Sour Cream Chicken
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Total Time: 1 hour
Main Ingredients: Broiler chicken, sour cream, bread crumbs
Level: Beginner
Main Ingredients: Broiler chicken, sour cream, bread crumbs
Level: Beginner
Nutrition Facts:
4 ounces cooked chicken: 423 calories, 23g fat (11g saturated fat), 123mg cholesterol, 795mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 30g protein.
A dish called sour cream chicken initially sounds as though it’s a chicken in cream sauce, but it’s actually a baked chicken dish with a golden, crunchy coating. The sour cream comes in as the base for a creamy, tangy marinade.
I like this sour cream chicken because you can make it ahead of time. Simply chill the chicken and sour cream mixture together overnight. Then coat it with bread crumbs the next day. —Recipe contributor Nancy Stec, Upperco, Maryland
24/31
Day 24: Chicken Sweet Potato Skillet
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Total Time: 30 minutes
Main Ingredients: Sweet potatoes, black beans, chicken, zucchini
Level: Beginner
Main Ingredients: Sweet potatoes, black beans, chicken, zucchini
Level: Beginner
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 392 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 62mg cholesterol, 826mg sodium, 47g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 9g fiber), 29g protein.
This dish has a subtle southwestern vibe thanks to the addition of black beans. It’s a great meal-prep option if you’re looking for healthy, well-balanced dinners.
One of the first things my husband made for me was a variation of this sweet potato skillet. Over the years, it’s become a family favorite. Top with cheese, sour cream, avocado, lettuce or anything else your family likes. —Recipe contributor MacKenzie Wright, San Antonio, Texas
25/31
Day 25: Nacho Casserole
Total Time
30 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Total Time: 30 minutes
Main Ingredients: Ground beef, diced tomatoes and green chiles, nacho-flavored tortilla chips
Level: Beginner
Main Ingredients: Ground beef, diced tomatoes and green chiles, nacho-flavored tortilla chips
Level: Beginner
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 477 calories, 26g fat (9g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 1119mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 5g fiber), 23g protein.
Kids love this customizable dinner. It’s your call on using nacho-flavored or plain tortilla chips—you really can’t go wrong either way.
Over the years I’ve tweaked this recipe to end up with a delicious, quick weeknight meal. Feel free to spice it up with jalapenos if you prefer a little heat. —Recipe contributor Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
26/31
Day 26: Curry Chicken and Rice
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Total Time: 30 minutes
Main Ingredients: Chicken breast, curry powder, rice, chicken broth
Level: Beginner
Main Ingredients: Chicken breast, curry powder, rice, chicken broth
Level: Beginner
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 300 calories, 9g fat (4g saturated fat), 78mg cholesterol, 658mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 1-1/2 fat.
Made with a combination of spices like coriander, cumin, turmeric and mustard, curry powder provides many of the classic flavors of Indian cuisine. This dish is flavorful, light and nutritious.
I’ve been loving the subtle spice from curry lately, so I incorporated it into this saucy chicken and rice dish. It’s a one-pan meal that’s become a go-to dinnertime favorite. —Recipe contributor Mary Lou Timpson, Colorado City, Arizona
27/31
Day 27: Hot Roast Beef Sandwich
Total Time
10 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Total Time: 10 minutes
Main Ingredients: Deli roast beef, instant mashed potatoes, beef gravy, Italian bread
Level: Beginner
Main Ingredients: Deli roast beef, instant mashed potatoes, beef gravy, Italian bread
Level: Beginner
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup meat mixture with 1/2 cup potatoes and 1 slice bread: 347 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 75mg cholesterol, 2051mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 3g fiber), 30g protein.
Hot, open-faced sandwiches with velvety roast beef and rich gravy just scream cozy fall dinner. Top with creamy mashed potatoes and horseradish for an extra kick!
Just like Mom or Grandma used to make—but so much quicker! Store-bought mashed potatoes and gravy and deli roast beef help you turn out this heartwarming combination before you can say, “Order up!” —Recipe contributor Ruth Ann Bott, Lake Wales, Florida
28/31
Day 28: Cheese Enchiladas
Total Time
50 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Total Time: 50 minutes
Main Ingredients: Monterey Jack cheese, tomato sauce, flour tortillas, cheddar cheese
Level: Beginner
Main Ingredients: Monterey Jack cheese, tomato sauce, flour tortillas, cheddar cheese
Level: Beginner
Nutrition Facts:
2 enchiladas: 778 calories, 42g fat (23g saturated fat), 106mg cholesterol, 1741mg sodium, 66g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 6g fiber), 34g protein.
Creamy, cheesy and very family-friendly, these enchiladas are ready to be devoured in just 30 minutes. The enchilada filling is made creamy and delicious with sour cream, onion, parsley, Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese.
You won’t bring home leftovers when you take these easy enchiladas to a potluck. With a homemade tomato sauce and cheesy filling, they always go fast. You can substitute any type of cheese you wish. —Recipe contributor Ashley Schackow, Defiance, Ohio
29/31
Day 29: Creamy Mushroom Pasta
Total Time
45 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Total Time: 45 minutes
Main Ingredients: Fettuccine, portobello mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms, heavy whipping cream
Level: Beginner
Main Ingredients: Fettuccine, portobello mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms, heavy whipping cream
Level: Beginner
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup sauce with 1-1/2 cups pasta: 705 calories, 51g fat (32g saturated fat), 151mg cholesterol, 362mg sodium, 50g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 5g fiber), 15g protein.
The sauce for this pasta dish is silky and decadent with a white wine, cream and chicken stock base. Customize it with pork or beef.
This creamy mushroom pasta sauce has an earthy flavor that tastes delicious served over pasta, chicken or pork. I like to add bottled sherry and black truffle oil when I have them on hand. —Recipe contributor Francine Lizotte, Surrey, British Columbia
30/31
Day 30: Easy Chicken and Dumplings
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings (2-1/4 quarts)
From the Recipe Creator:
Total Time: 30 minutes
Main Ingredients: Biscuits, rotisserie chicken, chicken broth
Level: Beginner
Main Ingredients: Biscuits, rotisserie chicken, chicken broth
Level: Beginner
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 420 calories, 20g fat (5g saturated fat), 83mg cholesterol, 1443mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 34g protein.
If there’s anything better than chicken and dumplings, it’s quick and easy chicken and dumplings. Store bought chicken and frozen biscuits allow this recipe to be ready in just 30 minutes.
Using precooked chicken and ready-made biscuits, this hearty dish is comfort food made simple. It’s the perfect way to warm up on chilly nights. —Recipe contributor Lakeya Astwood, Schenectady, New York
31/31
Day 31: Chorizo Pumpkin Pasta
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Total Time: 30 minutes
Main Ingredients: Spiral pasta, chorizo chicken sausage links, canned pumpkin
Level: Beginner
Main Ingredients: Spiral pasta, chorizo chicken sausage links, canned pumpkin
Level: Beginner
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 471 calories, 20g fat (11g saturated fat), 92mg cholesterol, 847mg sodium, 48g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 3g fiber), 26g protein.
Use your canned pumpkin this fall in this rich, sweet and spicy pasta. You can use gemelli or spiral pasta.
I’m a busy student, and this spicy-sweet pasta makes a perfect quick dinner. Even better, it works on a bigger scale to feed a bunch of friends. —Recipe contributor Christine Yang, Syracuse, New York
