This November edition of my “What to Cook” series highlights my favorite comforting dinners with a healthy heartiness that really nurtures. You’ll notice that many recipes are also protein-packed to help keep your energy up during the holiday season!
Photo: Gayle McLeod
Let’s Just Call These Nurturing November Recipes
Like most people, once November hits I instantly start thinking about what I’m making for Thanksgiving dinner. The Virgo in me loves to plan ahead! So I’m already mentally planning my turkey recipe and all the delicious Thanksgiving side dishes that fill the table (like my Thanksgiving peas!).
But between now and Thanksgiving I still need to get wholesome recipes on the dinner table that keep me going strong throughout the month. So sometimes I’ll make a roast chicken that I can repurpose into quick-and-easy meals. And other times I’ll make my chili or beef stew for freezer-friendly meal prep and reheating. It’s peak fall season after all!
But below you’ll find 10 recipes that are some of my absolute favorites for November. It’s the month where I just want to get an easy fall dinner on the table and dress in warming layers (yes, even in California). I can’t wait to see what you make!
1
These turkey meatballs simmer in an amazing maple mustard sauce that always has guests going back for seconds. It also makes for a great Friendsgiving or Thanksgiving dish!
View Recipe
3
This has to be one of my top 5 squash dishes to make. It’s always a hit for a holiday side dish, but I also love making it for a tasty weeknight dinner alongside my baked chicken or meatloaf.
View Recipe
4
This ground turkey version is perfect for a chili that’s a bit leaner! I know I’m going to indulge for the holidays, so this is one lighter chili recipe I love to make in November.
View Recipe
5
This white bean soup is amazing for a light, healthy, and brothy meal to cozy up with this month. Plus, it’s completely vegetarian and dairy-free! But if you want to make it a full meal, just toss in some shredded chicken.
View Recipe
6
These stuffed mushrooms are a great appetizer for when family and friends come over in the days and weeks before Thanksgiving. They always tide over hungry bellies!
View Recipe
7
This one-pan chickpea curry is one of my favorite vegetarian dinners when I need something tasty on the fly. It’s easy to make, filled with bold Indian-inspired flavors, and can be enjoyed in endless ways over the week.
View Recipe
8
Definitely bookmark this roast chicken for weeknight dinners or as a holiday main! I also love shredding it to make my chicken soup (a must-make for soup season).
View Recipe
9
My slow cooker recipes save me in November! They’re the easiest way to make a lot of meat that I can reheat with a variety of sides from mashed potatoes to honey glazed carrots. And this slow cooker pulled pork is often my go-to!
View Recipe
10
Juicy chicken thighs are simmered in a rich and creamy curry sauce that’s ridiculously good. Serve it over basmati rice for a meal that’s satisfying and nourishing.
View Recipe
More November Cooking Inspiration
If you make any of these September recipes, let me know how they turn out in the comments below! Your review will help other readers in the community. And if you’re looking for more healthy food inspiration, join my free newsletter here.