The cool autumn air means hearty, warming comfort foods are in order. Meat dishes in particular can satisfy the craving for sustenance as the temperatures drop. Here are 10 flavorful fall meat dishes to keep you warm.
Beef stew is a classic choice for a chilly fall evening. Cubed beef, potatoes, carrots and broth are simmered for hours until the meat is tender. Serve with a crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth. The long cooking time allows the flavors to blend and develop richness.
Chili provides a spicy warmth and is perfect for a casual fall gathering. Ground beef or turkey is simmered in a tomato base with chili peppers, beans, onions and lots of spices like cumin, oregano, garlic and paprika. Top with avocado, cheese, scallions or your favorite garnishes.
Braised short ribs are ideal for autumn. Meaty short ribs are browned, then simmered in broth until the meat falls off the bone. The savory broth is reduced to a rich sauce. Polenta, mashed potatoes or egg noodles pair well.
Meatloaf wrapped in bacon is a classic fall comfort food. Ground beef or turkey is mixed with breadcrumbs, eggs and spices, then wrapped in bacon before baking. The bacon provides a salty, savory crust. Leftovers make great sandwiches.
Shepherd’s pie is a hearty dish of ground lamb or beef simmered in broth with vegetables like carrots, peas and onions. The mixture is topped with mashed potatoes and cheese and baked until bubbly.
Pot pies are comforting on a cool fall day. Cubed meat such as beef, chicken or turkey is simmered in a creamy broth with vegetables until the flavors blend. The mixture is topped with a flaky pastry crust and baked.
Bolognese sauce simmers for hours, allowing the flavors to develop richness. Ground beef or turkey is simmered in a tomato base with garlic, herbs and red wine. Toss with pasta such as ziti or penne and top with parmesan cheese.
Osso buco is a classic Italian dish of cross-cut veal shanks braised in broth until the meat is falling off the bone. Gremolata, a mixture of lemon zest, parsley and garlic, provides a bright garnish to the rich, savory dish.
Pork chops with apples and cider is a classic fall combination. Thick cut pork chops are simmered in apple cider until the meat is cooked through. Sautéed apples provide a touch of sweetness.
Roast pork loin with root vegetables is a quintessential fall Sunday dinner. A pork loin is rubbed with herbs and roasted, while hard root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, turnips and beets are tossed in olive oil and roasted alongside.