7 High-Protein Fall Dinner Ideas for Weight Loss and Fullness

Fall is the perfect time to embrace hearty, high-protein dinners that keep you feeling satisfied while supporting your weight loss goals. With the chill in the air, it's a great opportunity to whip up warm, comforting meals packed with protein, helping you stay full longer without the extra calories. Check out these delicious dinner ideas that are easy to make and perfect for the season!

Hearty Turkey Chili To Warm Your Evenings

As the days grow shorter and the nights cooler, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of turkey chili to fill you up and keep you cozy. This dish is not only hearty but also packed with protein, making it a perfect choice for those looking to support their weight loss goals. The vibrant colors of the ingredients, from the red kidney beans to the fresh cilantro, make it as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

Imagine sitting down with a steaming bowl of chili, topped with shredded cheese and a sprinkle of onions. The rich flavors blend beautifully, creating a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug. Plus, it's easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you like it spicy or mild, this turkey chili is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, brown the ground turkey over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chopped bell peppers, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Once the chili has thickened, taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and shredded cheese if desired.

Savory Lentil And Sweet Potato Stew For A Cozy Night

When the weather cools down, a warm bowl of stew is just what you need. This savory lentil and sweet potato stew is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with protein and fiber, it keeps you full and supports your weight loss goals. The vibrant colors of sweet potatoes and lentils make it as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

The image captures a hearty bowl of stew, filled with tender chunks of sweet potato and lentils, garnished with fresh herbs. The warm tones of the dish contrast beautifully with the rustic wooden background, creating an inviting atmosphere. Surrounding the bowl are hints of fall, with leaves and a cozy orange napkin, making it feel like the perfect autumn meal.

This stew is not just delicious; it’s also easy to make. With a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a comforting dish that’s great for meal prep or a family dinner. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft.
2. Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, and smoked paprika. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils and sweet potatoes are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Creamy Spinach And Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Breast

Picture a juicy chicken breast, perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor. This creamy spinach and mushroom stuffed chicken is not just a meal; it's a delightful experience. The tender chicken is filled with a rich mixture of sautéed spinach and mushrooms, all enveloped in a luscious sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy fall dinner, keeping you full while supporting your weight loss goals.

The vibrant colors of the spinach and mushrooms contrast beautifully with the golden-brown chicken. Served alongside roasted vegetables, this meal is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate. It’s a great way to enjoy a high-protein dinner that feels indulgent without the guilt.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until softened. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat.
4. In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, mozzarella, thyme, salt, and pepper with the spinach and mushroom mixture.
5. Cut a pocket into each chicken breast and stuff with the spinach mixture. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
6. Heat more olive oil in the skillet and sear the stuffed chicken on both sides until golden brown.
7. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
8. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy spinach and mushroom stuffed chicken!

Zesty Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon

Grilled salmon is a fantastic choice for a high-protein dinner. The zesty lemon and fresh herbs bring a burst of flavor that makes this dish stand out. The salmon is perfectly cooked, flaky, and juicy, while the lemon adds a refreshing touch. Pair it with some vibrant asparagus and cherry tomatoes for a colorful plate that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

This meal is not just delicious; it’s also packed with protein, making it a great option for those looking to stay full and support weight loss. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.

Let’s get into the details of how to make this delightful dish!

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Asparagus and cherry tomatoes for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the Salmon: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper. Place the salmon fillets in the marinade and let them sit for at least 15 minutes.
2. Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, heat it on the stove.
3. Grill the Salmon: Remove the salmon from the marinade and place it skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
4. Cook the Veggies: While the salmon is grilling, toss the asparagus and cherry tomatoes with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill them for about 5-7 minutes until tender.
5. Serve: Plate the grilled salmon alongside the asparagus and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with any remaining marinade for extra flavor.

Rich And Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

When the leaves start to change, it’s the perfect time to whip up a comforting dish like butternut squash risotto. This creamy delight is not only rich in flavor but also packed with nutrients to keep you feeling satisfied. The vibrant orange of the squash adds a lovely touch to your dinner table, making it as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

To make this risotto, you’ll need arborio rice, which gives it that creamy texture. The butternut squash is roasted to bring out its natural sweetness, and the addition of fresh herbs elevates the dish. Top it off with a sprinkle of cheese for that extra indulgence. This meal is perfect for a cozy evening in, and it supports your weight loss goals by being high in protein and fiber.

Ingredients

• 1 cup arborio rice
• 2 cups butternut squash, diced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh sage leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast for about 25 minutes until tender.
2. In a pot, heat the vegetable broth and keep it warm over low heat.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft.
4. Add the arborio rice to the skillet, stirring for about 2 minutes until slightly translucent.
5. Gradually add the warm vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding more.
6. After about 20 minutes, when the rice is creamy and al dente, stir in the roasted butternut squash and Parmesan cheese.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh sage leaves.

Tasty Teriyaki Turkey Meatballs

These teriyaki turkey meatballs are a delicious way to enjoy a high-protein meal this fall. They are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy dinner. The sweet and savory teriyaki sauce adds a delightful twist that everyone will love. Serve them over rice or with your favorite veggies for a complete meal.

The image showcases a bowl of these mouthwatering meatballs, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds. Next to it, a bowl of fluffy white rice complements the dish beautifully. The warm tones of the wood and the rustic dinnerware create a welcoming vibe, making it a perfect dinner choice for chilly evenings.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, ginger, green onions, teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.
5. Once done, drizzle with extra teriyaki sauce and sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

Mouthwatering Eggplant Parmesan Bake

Eggplant Parmesan Bake is a fantastic dish for fall. It’s warm, comforting, and packed with flavor. The layers of tender eggplant, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese create a delightful combination that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy seasonal ingredients.

This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner. The vibrant colors of the eggplant and the fresh basil on top make it visually appealing. Pair it with a simple salad or some crusty bread, and you have a complete meal that’s satisfying and healthy.

Making Eggplant Parmesan Bake is straightforward. Start by slicing the eggplant and salting it to remove excess moisture. Then, layer it with marinara sauce and cheese in a baking dish. Bake until bubbly and golden. The result is a hearty dish that will keep you full and support your weight loss goals.

Ingredients

• 2 medium eggplants, sliced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the eggplants and sprinkle salt on both sides. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Rinse and pat dry.
3. In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the eggplant slices over the sauce.
4. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the eggplant. Add another layer of marinara sauce, followed by the remaining eggplant slices.
5. Top with the rest of the marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the top and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.