Alright, can I be honest? If you’re anything like me, the thought of cooking sounds exhausting. But fall is here, and a girl’s gotta eat - preferably something cozy and yummy. So I made a rule while putting together this blog: if I wouldn’t actually make it myself, it’s not going in here. These recipes are all about minimal effort, maximum flavor. Perfect for a chilly fall evening at home, wrapped in a blanket, watching Gilmore Girls (for the millionth time).
Sometimes, you just want dinner to cook itself, and that’s where Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings comes in. You throw a bunch of ingredients in, press a button, and browse Netflix for 40 minutes until it’s done. The chicken is tender, the dumplings are fluffy, and it all comes together super easily. Plus, the leftovers? Even better the next day. You can thank me later 💅
Ok, picture this: you’re living your best life, wearing your comfiest sweater, and this Beef Stew is simmering on the stove. It’s giving 'I’ve got my life together.' Even if your biggest accomplishment today was finally folding the laundry that’s been sitting on that one chair in your room for a week. This stew is rich, hearty, and will make you feel like you’re in a cottage in the woods 🍄 (minus the actual effort of, you know, going outside). Pair it with a glass of wine or apple cider, and suddenly, your Tuesday night is a whole mood.
Look, I like a classic beef chili as much as the next person, but sometimes you need to switch it up. This White Chicken Chili is creamy, flavorful, and just different enough to keep things interesting. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something warm and cozy but not too heavy. Plus, it’s packed with protein, so you can tell yourself you’re being healthy, even if you go back for seconds (or thirds). No shame, we’ve all been there.
Anyone else obsessed with Mexican street corn? Just me? Cool. Well, this Mexican Street Corn Soup takes everything you like (for me, it’s love) about street corn - sweet, smoky, a little spicy - and turns it into a soup that’ll warm you right up. It’s yummy, comforting, and way less messy than straight-up street corn. Top it with extra cheese and chili powder if you’re feeling extra chef-ey that day, and enjoy!
Would it even be fall without something pumpkin on this list? I didn’t think so. This Pumpkin Soup is super simple, but don’t let that fool you - it’s got all the fall vibes you’re carving (oops…I mean craving). Plus, it makes your kitchen smell amazing, which is a total win if you’re trying to trick people into thinking you’re a domestic goddess. 😇 Ready in 30 minutes total; it’s basically your go-to for when you want something easy that still feels festive. Bonus points if you eat it out of a cute bowl, so you can take pics to post on your Insta story.
Listen, if you haven’t made Apple Butter yet, it’s time (according to my cousin, Nick). It’s ridiculously easy; it makes your entire house smell like fall, and you can use it on pretty much anything - pancakes, toast, oatmeal, or just straight up by the spoonful. It’s one of those things that you just don’t think to make, but once you do, you can’t stop. Is apple butter the new sourdough? 🤔
So there you have it! Recipes that make staying in feel like a win. Whether you’re going for the all-out cozy vibes of beef stew or keeping it easy with a quick pumpkin soup, these dishes will have you embracing your inner homebody all season long. Grab your blanket, cue up that Gilmore Girls rewatch, and let’s get you cooking (kinda). Oh! If you try any of these, let us know on our socials! Or just tell me what you're watching while you wait for it to cook, I need recommendations.